Author: Sam Ayres

Sam Ayres is one of the founders of TheMotorist and enjoys writing about and photographing cars. Sam looks after the operations of TheMotorist and is based in Durban, KZN.

Here’s why we’re disappointed by the new BMW Z4.

All-new BMW Z4 Driven Review “Zukunft”. If like myself you don’t speak fluent German, then a quick Google translate will reveal that the strange word “Zukunft” actually means future when translated into English”. Funnily enough, It also happens to be the naming inspiration behind BMW’s range of Z vehicles, one of those being the all-new… Continue reading Here’s why we’re disappointed by the new BMW Z4.

Autonomous driving – Just a gimmick?

Semi-Autonomous Driving Many of the motor vehicles we drive nowadays come with bucket loads of tech. Some of that technology is great, especially when it revolves around safety, lighting and better connectivity. However there are hordes of technology that comes across as being very “cool” but actually rarely gets used. One piece of tech currently featuring… Continue reading Autonomous driving – Just a gimmick?

Meet the 2019 Audi TT RS

2019 Audi TT RS The Audi TT RS was one of my favourite vehicles of 2018. A statement I didn’t think I’d be typing before I’d got behind the wheel. I mean, It’s just a fast Audi TT, right? Maybe, but still. We drive many cars that can reach 100km/h as fast as some supercars,… Continue reading Meet the 2019 Audi TT RS

McLaren 720S Spa 68 Collection

McLaren 720s Spa 68 Collection Back in 1968, Bruce McLaren won the first-ever Formula 1 victory for his team at the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. Driving none other than a McLaren M7A racecar, gracing Papaya Orange livery. This win, the first ever for McLaren and opened up a motorsport history that many other teams would love to… Continue reading McLaren 720S Spa 68 Collection

Audi e-tron: Audi’s first production electric vehicle.

The Audi e-tron is coming to South Africa. You’ve probably heard about the Audi e-tron, if you haven’t, it’s not the name of a spaceship, or your best friends dog. Rather it’s Audi’s production ready, first EV vehicle. There has been big press around this vehicle over the past few weeks, with international press already… Continue reading Audi e-tron: Audi’s first production electric vehicle.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio – fast, fun but expensive.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Driven Review If you are familiar with the team here at TheMotorist, you will know it consists of myself, Francisco and Richard. While the latter two happen to be brothers, Francisco and myself are born within a month of each other. Unfortunately for Richard, he has passed the “fun part” of his… Continue reading Alfa Romeo Stelvio – fast, fun but expensive.

New Mercedes-AMG C43

New Mercedes-AMG C43 First Drive For those not in the know, the Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Benz range can become quite confusing. Walk into a dealership and ask for a “fast Mercedes” and you will most likely find yourself presented with a myriad of models and a vast range of numbers – such as 65, 63, 53,… Continue reading New Mercedes-AMG C43

Here’s why you should buy the Alfa Romeo Giulia

Alfa Romeo Giulia  I know what you are all thinking, how does the Italian stallion compare to the ever so popular BMW 3 series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class or the third German moustache – the Audi A4?. All giants of the same segment. This article isn’t going to be a long-winded and unnecessary comparison, the seats are… Continue reading Here’s why you should buy the Alfa Romeo Giulia

New Volkswagen Polo vs Peugeot 208 GT-Line

New Volkswagen Polo v Peugeot 208 GT-Line “Cool”, “eye-catching” and “snazzy” are just a few words than can be used to describe both Volkswagen’s new Polo and the updated Peugeot 208 GT-Line. These hatchbacks play in a competitive market, each manufacturer has their own version of what they perceive that market wants. For those looking… Continue reading New Volkswagen Polo vs Peugeot 208 GT-Line

Another Mad McLaren! Meet the McLaren 600LT

Another Mad McLaren. Meet the 600LT. If you are anything like me, you probably had serious FOMO over the past few days, as your Instagram feed was filled with images and videos of the McLaren Senna – being driven around the Estoril race track for the launch in Portugal. And what a car it is,… Continue reading Another Mad McLaren! Meet the McLaren 600LT

Does the New Polo GTI mean the Golf is now obsolete?

Does the new Volkswagen Polo GTI replace the Golf? So the new Volkswagen Polo GTI has a 2.0 –liter engine bru? It’s bigger man? So why then do I need to buy a Golf GTI? These are the types of questions that have been drummed in my ears every time the new Polo GTI comes… Continue reading Does the New Polo GTI mean the Golf is now obsolete?

Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S

Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S Driven A mid-sized family orientated SUV with 375kW and 700Nm may sound quite preposterous, in fact, it can be likened to those superhuman toddler gymnasts you see on YouTube. At the age of four, their biceps are bigger than their little heads, causing you to ask, “why?” Many may ask the… Continue reading Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S

Land Rover 70th Year Anniversary Expedition

70 years of Land Rover – Kingsley Holgate Expedition Many of the motoring launches we attend usually include plush hotels, top food, and of course, a brand spanking new vehicle to review. And as comfortable as these launches can be, this just isn’t the right way to celebrate 70 years of heritage, innovation and the… Continue reading Land Rover 70th Year Anniversary Expedition

Mercedes-Benz X-Class: Does it have the X Factor?

We drive the Mercedes-Benz X-Class First things first, I feel we need to discuss the elephant in the article – this elephant isn’t Nellie, but rather Nissan. You probably know by now and if you don’t, you will by the end of this sentence – that the Mercedes-Benz X-Class is based on the Nissan Navara.… Continue reading Mercedes-Benz X-Class: Does it have the X Factor?

Tiguan Allspace – Because we all need more “space”

Who needs more space? We live in a world where we need larger “clouds”, more memory on our phones, a bigger Netflix library and for photographers, an endless amount of hard drives. In short, more space is always more welcomed. We embarked on a drive from Durban to Karkloof Spa in the Natal Midlands in… Continue reading Tiguan Allspace – Because we all need more “space”

Viva La Vivo – We Drive Volkswagen’s latest Polo Vivo

New Polo Vivo Driven Go to any city or town in South Africa and get a sense of the people, places and cultures, it will soon become very obvious that the place in which we live is unique. While doing this,  you will most definitely spot a VW Polo Vivo in the background – another… Continue reading Viva La Vivo – We Drive Volkswagen’s latest Polo Vivo

The New Volkswagen Polo – Bigger and Better.

The New Volkswagen Polo Driven Review New Volkswagen Polo. Despite being a small A0 segment hatchback, the Volkswagen Polo is a big car in South Africa. Last year alone VW SA sold over 20,000 units, and the all-new model proves to be even better with a new design and exciting array of tech features. To sample… Continue reading The New Volkswagen Polo – Bigger and Better.

What’s changed with the new Aston Martin Vantage?

New Aston Martin Vantage Aston Martin have been the quieter sports car brand in recent years, with only a few new mainstream models being released. While some may think they have been hiding behind old tyres in their workshop, worrying about the effects of Brexit, they have actually been working on their latest British supercar… Continue reading What’s changed with the new Aston Martin Vantage?

We roadtrip with VW South Africa and visit the Gerhard Volksie Museum!

We visit the Gerhard Volksie Museum while road tripping with VW South Africa. A few weeks back we embarked on a roadtrip with VW South Africa, encompassing historical landmarks and an interesting quiz. Our journey took place from JHB to Bloemfontein. This activation wasn’t really a launch, but more of a way to kick-back, relax… Continue reading We roadtrip with VW South Africa and visit the Gerhard Volksie Museum!

Meet the McLaren Senna, a 789hp road-legal track car.

McLaren Senna – The ultimate road-legal track car Any automotive vehicle named after one of the most legendary racing drivers to ever live, surely sounds like it’s going to impress. When that racing driver is the late Ayrton Senna, known as one of the fastest men to grace the circuit, it needs to do more… Continue reading Meet the McLaren Senna, a 789hp road-legal track car.

Updates to the 2018 Ford Ranger

Ford Ranger Updated for 2018 The locally produced and very popular Ford Ranger has undergone updates for the fast approaching year of 2018. The updates are as follows: Front Park Assist Front Park Assist is now fitted as standard on all Ranger XLT and Fx4 models. This will complement the rear sensors and camera and… Continue reading Updates to the 2018 Ford Ranger

Why we all need to make peace with South African Taxis.

The daily taxi war. Before everyone comes after me with pitchforks and burning torches, I would just like to put a little disclaimer out there. In this article, I am not condoning illegal or unroadworthy vehicles – which put the lives of others in danger. This includes overloading, or driving in a manner that can… Continue reading Why we all need to make peace with South African Taxis.

What you get for R3M: Range Rover SVAutobiography

Range Rover SVAutobiography A short while ago, Jaguar Land Rover introduced their 2018 Range Rover model. Now they’ve released another variant of this model, the SVAutobiography. Let’s just say it’s very, very nice. The SVAutobiography is a variant developed by SVO, ( Special Vehicle Operations) Jaguar Land Rover’s “tuning” division. With the fast coupes, they… Continue reading What you get for R3M: Range Rover SVAutobiography

Mazda MX5- RF: Best weekend car, worst weekday car.

Mazda MX5- RF Driven Review Weekend vehicle: Definition: “That car that makes you forget about all your problems and dependants for a period of time, preferably early mornings when the kids or the wife is asleep.” TheMotorist Dictionary Let us begin… “Ah, two seats, low center of gravity, a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine and a… Continue reading Mazda MX5- RF: Best weekend car, worst weekday car.

Range Rover SVR – Mixed emotions and loud exhausts.

Range Rover SVR – Mixed emotions and loud exhausts. A Range Rover is known for its British heritage, uncompromised build quality, modern luxury and all-round driving elegance. It’s a vehicle very popular with old money, understandably so because it gives off a certain feeling of class. This class isn’t earned by producing one vehicle, but… Continue reading Range Rover SVR – Mixed emotions and loud exhausts.

Audi Sport Launch – A day with the RS3, RS5 and TTRS

Audi Sport Launch in South Africa When a launch comprises of three different vehicles, all of which produce over 290kW and reach 100km/h just over 4 seconds, one tends to give off a childlike giggle. As car enthusiasts, these type of days don’t come around often – contrary to popular belief, but when they do,… Continue reading Audi Sport Launch – A day with the RS3, RS5 and TTRS

VW Tiguan 2.0 TDI vs Mazda Akera 2.2

VW Tiguan v Mazda CX-5: Which do you pick? There are more and more options becoming available for buyers when it comes to the compact SUV. For many, they make perfect sense. Great looks, practicality and are what make these vehicles popular. The demand is growing and so is the market as more manufacturers release… Continue reading VW Tiguan 2.0 TDI vs Mazda Akera 2.2

Electric this, hybrid that – Meet the new Range Rover.

New Range Rover Goes Electric Just weeks after the release of the 2018 Range Rover Sport, JLR have surprised us with another release, and this time it’s the oldest sibling in the family receiving the updates, the Range Rover. With 50 years behind its belt, the Range Rover has continually developed and is know one… Continue reading Electric this, hybrid that – Meet the new Range Rover.

The hypercar of all hypercars: Mercedes-AMG Project One

Mercedes-Benz AMG Project One At one time or another, we have all fantasized about driving a Formula1 racing car on the road, I know I have. The sheer noise, brutal acceleration, and damn right craziness is something that would really drive the neighbors crazy. and set your hair on fire, in a good way. Of… Continue reading The hypercar of all hypercars: Mercedes-AMG Project One

TVR are back! Welcome the new Griffith.

The New TVR Griffith In 2013, TVR was taken over by entrepreneur Les Edgar. The brand needed a revival and this man took up the challenge, promising to keep in line with the brands rich heritage of sports cars. It’s been four years since TVR’s new administration walked in the door and TVR have now… Continue reading TVR are back! Welcome the new Griffith.

Is The Porsche 911 GTS All The Porsche You Will Ever Need?

Porsche 911 GTS: All The Porsche You Need? Flying through the cradle of mankind as the sun is lowering in the sky, onto the brakes and a delightful downshift brings more music to my ears – another crackle and pop from the Sports Exhaust system. Turning through the next bend is just as enjoyable as… Continue reading Is The Porsche 911 GTS All The Porsche You Will Ever Need?

MINI JCW Countryman and Clubman Experience

MINI JCW Countryman and Clubman George is a small South African town, located on the east coast of South Africa. Wedged in between Knysna and Plett, this area is one of my favorite spots to visit while experiencing its endless forests and gracious mountain ranges. It’s also pretty cold this time of year and I… Continue reading MINI JCW Countryman and Clubman Experience

Images of the BMW X2 in jungle styled camouflage!

BMW X2 It seems to becoming increasingly common for manufacturers to expand their ranges, developing new models for relatively new segments. We have seen this  with the big German three, especially in the SUV Segment. Mercedes-Benz now have a GLA,GLC, GLE and GLS available, with the first three also available in Coupe form. Audi are… Continue reading Images of the BMW X2 in jungle styled camouflage!

Audi Q2 2.0 TFSI Quattro released, but will it be available in South Africa?

Audi Q2 2.0 TFSI Quattro Earlier this year, Audi released the Q2 in South Africa. It’s quite unique to the Audi range in terms of styling as it follows Audi’s new design language – a language which has not yet seemed to filter through entirely to other new models. At launch, the Q2 was released… Continue reading Audi Q2 2.0 TFSI Quattro released, but will it be available in South Africa?

40 Years on – bigger, faster and filled with tech – Golf 7.5 GTI

VW Golf 7.5 GTI Driven The Volkswagen Golf GTI has become an icon. Since 1975, the Golf GTI has brought practicality, quality, performance and safety, the latter I know well of after my mother spun a Mk5 Golf on the M6 Motorway some years ago. The original goal with the Golf GTI was to take… Continue reading 40 Years on – bigger, faster and filled with tech – Golf 7.5 GTI

Range Rover Velar Pricing & Spec in South Africa

Range Rover Velar The new Range Rover Velar is now available to order and spec in South Africa, with the vehicle launching in the Q4 of 2017. The Velar is actually the most customisable Land Rover to date which a choice of 5 petrol engines, 5 diesel engines, 17 alloy wheel options, 13 exterior paint… Continue reading Range Rover Velar Pricing & Spec in South Africa

The MINI Countryman Diesel Arrives in South Africa – We Drive It!

MINI Countryman Diesel Driven Review The new MINI Countryman launched in South Africa earlier this year and TheMotorist team attended that launch, we even shot a video on it, and we were very impressed with how the Countryman had grown up. Not just figuratively either, the New Mini Countryman is bigger, smarter and overall, much… Continue reading The MINI Countryman Diesel Arrives in South Africa – We Drive It!

The Widow Maker has returned: Porsche 911 GT2 RS

The Porsche 911 GT2 RS Has Arrived The most powerful, street-legal Porsche ever – This is a title which has been associated with the Porsche 911 GT2 RS for many years. Its rear wheel drive setup along with the same twin-turbo engine found in the 911 Turbo has earned this car a more infamous title,… Continue reading The Widow Maker has returned: Porsche 911 GT2 RS

The Audi Q2 is expensive, but it’s worth it.

Audi Q2 Driven Review Unique and distinguished are words I would use when talking about Audi’s latest Q-Model. It’s obviously not a supercar, but still possibly turns as many heads due to its individual hexagonal style based on Audi’s new design language.  The Audi Q2 can’t really be faulted, then, in terms of design because… Continue reading The Audi Q2 is expensive, but it’s worth it.

Prettiest Porsche to date? Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series

Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series From when I was little, the Porsche 911 has always been one of my favourite cars. I am unsure of where my love came for this brand, but it may have started when I was shoved in the front loading area or “trunk” by my father. This was his… Continue reading Prettiest Porsche to date? Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series

The new VW Tiguan is the coolest family car on the road!

The new Vw Tiguan is the coolest family car on the road. I have a vivid memory of driving the new VW Tiguan in its 1 400 cc petrol variant towards the end of 2016 and I loved it. The design, style, chassis and all round coolness were just some of the goods that stood… Continue reading The new VW Tiguan is the coolest family car on the road!

Rolls Royce Sweptail: Are one-off vehicles the future of true luxury?

Is the Rolls Royce Sweptail the future of real luxury cars? Imagine a vehicle custom built just for you. A car designed with your taste in mind, featuring the items you desire whilst doing without the items which hold no value for your needs. Now imagine the manufacturer producing your personal masterpiece was non-other than… Continue reading Rolls Royce Sweptail: Are one-off vehicles the future of true luxury?

9 reasons why the Polo R Line is the perfect premium city car.

VW Polo R Line: The perfect premium city hatchback? Volkswagen’s latest Polo, the Polo R line edition could be described as the perfect premium city hatchback. Here are 9 reasons to back this statement up:   3 Cylinder Engine The 1.0-litre 3-cylinder engine featured in the Polo R produces 81 kW and 160 N.m. This… Continue reading 9 reasons why the Polo R Line is the perfect premium city car.

Details on the limited edition Ford Fiesta ST200 in South Africa

Limited Edition Ford Fiesta ST200 available in South Africa The Ford Fiesta is a very popular car among the younger generation in South africa and this can also be said for the sportier and faster ST variant. The Fiesta ST is a very rewarding hot hatch to drive, producing 134 kW in a fantastic chassis,… Continue reading Details on the limited edition Ford Fiesta ST200 in South Africa

Volvo S90 T6 vs S90 D5 : Same but very different

Volvo S90 T6 v S90 D5 : What would you choose? I recently posted an article on the Volvo S90 D5, and found that in the short, the car was very relaxing to drive and instilled a calmness on the driver. A short while after testing the S90 D5, I jumped into the T6 variant… Continue reading Volvo S90 T6 vs S90 D5 : Same but very different

NIO EP9: The electric hyper car that destroyed everything

NIO EP9: Fastest production car around the Nurburgring You may not know of the new car company called “NIO” and this would come as no surprise. They are a global production car start-up specializing in premium electric vehicles, and when I say premium, I mean 1% of the world kind of premium. They claim to… Continue reading NIO EP9: The electric hyper car that destroyed everything

The 1 Millionth Porsche 911

1 Millionth Porsche 911 rolls of the production line In 1964 the first Porsche 911 was produced at the headquarters in Zuffenhausen. What led in the following years was a sports car which became iconic not only on the road, but also on the racetrack. On 11th May 2017, 54 years later and in the… Continue reading The 1 Millionth Porsche 911

The First Hybrid MINI: MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4

The Hybrid MINI is here: MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 Greener transport, less congestion and autonomous vehicles seem to be high on the priority list of many countries and manufacturers  in 2017. While there are arguments for all three, the former seems to be the one that you can’t  really argue with. Emissions &  increased… Continue reading The First Hybrid MINI: MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4

Volvo’s Pilot Assist in South Africa – Does It Work?

We test out Volvo’s Pilot Assist on South African roads. With autonomous driving being the latest technology craze to enter the automotive industry, many car manufacturers are jumping on the band wagon and giving it a go. In South Africa, the likes of Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Volvo all have vehicles on the road with semi-autonomous… Continue reading Volvo’s Pilot Assist in South Africa – Does It Work?

A futuristic machine : New Audi A5 Driven Review

New Audi A5 Driven Review As journalists, we drive a fair number of new cars and because of this, I feel that sometimes we become a little numb to the latest technology and gadgets that are found in vehicles today. I realised this while driving the new Audi A5 on test when some friends of… Continue reading A futuristic machine : New Audi A5 Driven Review

The Harvey Specter of cars: Volvo S90 D5 Review

Volvo S90 D5 AWD Review Over the past few years, the Volvo brand has undergone a regeneration. Combining their reputation of driving safety with swedish luxury has seemed to be their main goal, making sure the vehicles they build are the last word in safety, as well as beautiful in every way. The first vehicle to… Continue reading The Harvey Specter of cars: Volvo S90 D5 Review

The New 911 GT3 Sets a very fast lap around Nürburgring

The new 911 GT3 Nürburgring lap time. The Porsche 991.2 911 GT3 may look very similar to its predecessor but under the skin much has changed. This is proven by the official lap time set by the 991.2 GT3 around the legendary Nürburgring. A track which seems to be proving ground for fast cars. “If you can drive… Continue reading The New 911 GT3 Sets a very fast lap around Nürburgring

Updated Kia Soul arrives in South Africa

South African Car News: Updated Kia Soul In September 2016 we saw the unveiling of the updated Kia Soul, a unique looking vehicle in the crossover segment. The updated Soul receives some minor updates which include a re-styling of the front and rear bumpers. There are also changes to the front headlights and rear fog… Continue reading Updated Kia Soul arrives in South Africa

Released: BMW M550d & M550i X Drive – The Models Which South Africa Won’t Get.

South African Car News: BMW M550d & M550i Xdrive It’s True. BMW have just released both the M550d and M550i – very exciting indeed, or not… As of yet, we have no news on exactly if or when these stinkingly powerful 5 Series variants will be heading to our beautiful country. BMW M550d First to… Continue reading Released: BMW M550d & M550i X Drive – The Models Which South Africa Won’t Get.

A Lotus for race and road: The Lotus Exige CUP 380

South African Car News: Lotus Exige Cup 380 For me, Lotus vehicles have always reminded me of mini race cars for the road. As an adolescent, they had always been appealing to me because of their aggressive design and small dimensions – they looked fast! They don’t just look fast though, they are fast. Thanks… Continue reading A Lotus for race and road: The Lotus Exige CUP 380

The Future Of Mercedes-Benz Design: A-Class Sedan Concept

South African Car News: A-Class Sedan concept The A-Class Sedan Concept was shown off at the latest Automotive show in Shanghai recently. It gives us an insight into the future design language of Mercedes-Benz. Straight off the bat, the A Class Concept looks very much like a smooth and streamlined CLA. It’s not that much… Continue reading The Future Of Mercedes-Benz Design: A-Class Sedan Concept

The Opel MOKKA X: A Crossover For South African City Life.

Opel MOKKA X Driven Review Crossover vehicles are becoming very popular, they bring the style of an SUV together with the compactness of a hatchback. They prove to be popular for those with young families or ones who just can’t stretch the budget for the real deal. Crossover’s look good, a little different from the… Continue reading The Opel MOKKA X: A Crossover For South African City Life.

Audi Q4 & Q8 Announced For Future Production

Audi Q4 & Q8 Released Audi recently announced the extension and future production of the Q Range. With the extremely competitive SUV segment growing, Audi wish to increase their global competitiveness in this market. The first of the new Q vehicles we can expect is the Audi Q8 which will be produced in Bratislava- the… Continue reading Audi Q4 & Q8 Announced For Future Production

Semi-Autonomous Driving Features in the New Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Semi-autonomous Driving In The New Mercedes-Benz S-Class Autonomous driving is a technology which is rapidly growing in the automotive industry. On the road today, we have semi-autonomous driving vehicles which are able to accelerate, brake and steer, for short periods of time, without any human input. One doesn’t even need to turn to the upper… Continue reading Semi-Autonomous Driving Features in the New Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Nissan Navara Launches In South Africa

We Drive The New Nissan Navara With Its 5 Link Suspension System. Can you remember the type of person you were, or what you were doing in your life twelve years ago? In twelve years, I have left high school, dabbled in higher education, moved continents and tied the proverbial knot. I am a walking… Continue reading Nissan Navara Launches In South Africa

The Launch of the New Audi A5 in South Africa

Update: Watch Our LaunchDrive Video of the New Audi S5 Here Hermanus is a beautiful seaside town with a vast mammal filled ocean on one side and  towering mountains on the other. Between us at Cape Town International Airport and Hermanus, though, was a driving route that involved great sections of tar, with long swooping… Continue reading The Launch of the New Audi A5 in South Africa

The New Porsche 991.2 GT3 Has Changed More Than You Think.

The Porsche GT3 has always been an iconic supercar since its launch in 1999, being a car built for the track but very much usable on the road, it became very popular and sort after. This is still the case 18 years on, the 911 GT3 has evolved over the years and each new model… Continue reading The New Porsche 991.2 GT3 Has Changed More Than You Think.

Say Hello to the new AMG-43’S

The 43 series in Mercedes-AMG’s line up has proven to be a popular engine choice for those who want a little more performance than a non AMG variant can provide, but are not yearning for a fire-breathing AMG-63, we can call this the middle ground. If you didn’t know, the middle ground provides some nice… Continue reading Say Hello to the new AMG-43’S

Audi A3 Facelift Driven Review

Audi recently facelifted the A3 and while the changes are only design based, I was still interested to get behind Audi’s entry level A3 with its 1.0-litre Turbo engine. The updates to the A3 consist of updated designs for the headlights and taillights, with some slight bumper design adjustments which completes the changes to the… Continue reading Audi A3 Facelift Driven Review

Does the 5 Series live up to its title – the business athlete?

The Business Athlete. That’s a strong title which can be translated in many ways, for me, it’s a title that evokes a sense of presence, stance and performance. When this title represents a car, one would naturally have high expectations – a business athlete vehicle would have to do many things, very well. Last year… Continue reading Does the 5 Series live up to its title – the business athlete?

The New Audi Q2 : It Really Is Untaggable

You have probably seen the advertising campaign for the new Audi Q2 – #untaggable is what they call it and that is exactly what it is. The Audi Q2 is difficult to define, where does one place it? What do you compare it to? These were questions that all ran through my mind during the… Continue reading The New Audi Q2 : It Really Is Untaggable

A New Level Of Luxury: The Mercedes-Maybach S600 Pullman

As you may know, Mercedes and Maybach has re-joined forces to create cars of extreme luxury and customisation for a special type of customer. Over the past year they have released some exquisite vehicles. Earlier this week, Mercedes-Maybach released the G 650 Landaulet, which you can read about here, and now another model has arrived.… Continue reading A New Level Of Luxury: The Mercedes-Maybach S600 Pullman

The Latest Porsche 911’S receive the GTS touch.

The first ever Porsche Carrera GTS  was born in 1964, when Baron Antonio Pucci and Colin Davis won the famous Targa Florio race, spending over seven hours driving at the absolute limit. To win a race like this, a car needed to have the performance characteristics to succeed, but also the safety and comfort features… Continue reading The Latest Porsche 911’S receive the GTS touch.

Experiencing Namibia With The Isuzu KB.

NAMIBIA. A place few in population but vast in space, a location which holds some of the largest sand dunes in the world, it’s an eye opener to the new visitor and it’s definitely a location that should be included on anyone’s bucket list, it has always been in mine. Apart from cars, landscape and… Continue reading Experiencing Namibia With The Isuzu KB.

Mercedes E63 S – Most Powerful E-Class Ever Produced.

Mercedes have just announced that the E63 S 4Matic+ is now available to order. This E-class doesn’t quite fit the stereotype, though, for one simple reason, its the most powerful E-Class ever produced.  The typical old man’s car comments go out of the window when you set your eyes on the E63, and it doesn’t just… Continue reading Mercedes E63 S – Most Powerful E-Class Ever Produced.

Peugeot 308 GT-LINE Automatic Review

The more time you spend with a vehicle, the more you get to know it and learn about it.  In issue 04 of TheMotorist, I tested the Peugeot 308 GT-Line, the manual variant. I recently got behind the wheel of the Automatic variant, which features the same three cylinder- 1200cc turbo motor. After my bad… Continue reading Peugeot 308 GT-LINE Automatic Review

VW GTi Clubsport Extended Review

VW Golf GTi Clubsport Driven Review Motorist Digital Magazine – Edition 08   The VW Golf Clubsport is a car that excites the senses and I’ve mentioned before how much I enjoyed driving this car. For those who don’t know much or anything about the Clubsport, (which I find hard to believe) it’s the 40-year… Continue reading VW GTi Clubsport Extended Review

Mercedes-AMG GT updated range

We recently posted an article about the new Mercedes-AMG GT R setting a fantastic lap time around the infamous Nurburgring, well you will be pleased to know that the AMG GT R and other new AMG GT models have been added to the South African range. Apart from the Mercedes-AMG GT R Coupe, which produces a… Continue reading Mercedes-AMG GT updated range

McLaren 570S Track Day

We may have been a little quiet this week on the site, but that’s just because last weekend we had our first true Supercar, the McLaren 570s. The McLaren, featuring a 3.8 V8 and producing 419kw with 600Nm of torque blew us away. You will find the full article in our latest edition of TheMotorist, releasing… Continue reading McLaren 570S Track Day

Mercedes GLC Coupe – The Sportier GLC.

Mercedes are pumping out cars like hot cakes at the moment, and I must admit, its hard to keep up. The latest German machine to hit the shelves in the Mercedes GLC Coupe. By the sounds of it, Mercedes wanted to bring more of a sports coupe element to the mid-sized Suv, The GLC Coupe… Continue reading Mercedes GLC Coupe – The Sportier GLC.

Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet : Only 300 available.

A Mercedes S-Class is a car limited to a minority of people. It’ one of the most comfortable and luxurious vehicles you can buy, with technology that’s streets ahead. If you have ever owned, driven or being a passenger in one of these cars, you will know what I’m talking about. As you go up in… Continue reading Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet : Only 300 available.

Hyundai Increase Tucson Range with Diesel Models

The Hyundai Tucson has proven to be a very popular car in 2016 and was also recently named a finalist for the SGMJ Car Of The Year 2017. The Tucson may now appeal to an even broader market as Hyundai have introduced a further two models in the Tucson range. The first of these new… Continue reading Hyundai Increase Tucson Range with Diesel Models

MAXterclass In The Brazilian Grand Prix.

The Brazilian GP has always provided a spicy race, so why would the 2016 Grand Prix in Sao Paulo be any different? The Mercedes pair headed into this race knowing that Nico Rosberg could finish second at this event and in the final event at Abu Dhabi, and still win the world championship. All that… Continue reading MAXterclass In The Brazilian Grand Prix.

Our New Mobile Application & A Free Copy of Edition 06.

There has been much happening in TheMotorist offices recently, our goal is to provide our readers and viewers with great motoring content which can be accessed and viewed easily.  In helping us to do this, we have released our Motorist mobile application! This is exciting times and will allow our readers to get The Motorist digital… Continue reading Our New Mobile Application & A Free Copy of Edition 06.

Our own award winning motor Journalist!

The Steve Dlamini award was created in  memory of the man himself after the young motoring editor died in 2008 in a motorcycle accident. The award, sponsored by Bridgestone SA represents excellence in the motor journalism field and is awarded to young, upcoming motor journalists who have stood out over the past year. This year, it was… Continue reading Our own award winning motor Journalist!

Opel Astra Sport – The Safe Man’s Car.

  I have been driving the Opel Astra for around a week now and have no significant problems with it, its comfortable, somewhat stylish and has lots of features and tech; It even won car of the year. The Opel Astra Sport features a 1.4 Turbo motor producing 110kw, and once again, it’s a good… Continue reading Opel Astra Sport – The Safe Man’s Car.

Five good and bad features on the new VW Tiguan.

The VW Tiguan came to the market with a bang. It’s sharp design, edgy looks and mini spaceship/ transformer aura caught the market’s attention. We have a full in-depth review in our latest edition of TheMotorist Digital Magazine by Francisco, so I’m just here to tell you five things I enjoyed and found frustrating about… Continue reading Five good and bad features on the new VW Tiguan.

A Mercedes-Benz Bakkie – Would you buy one?

Over recent years we have seen the Pickup or Bakkie market change, instead of the classic workhorse, Bakkies are used more for commercial and private sectors, simultaneously. Not only have they adapted into vehicles that look and feel great, they also have plenty of space for passengers, especially the double cab models. Mercedes have cottoned… Continue reading A Mercedes-Benz Bakkie – Would you buy one?

Peugeot 308 GT-Line Automatic

A few months back I was in the driving seat of the Peugeot 308 GT-Line Manual. I really enjoyed that vehicle, it looked great with the GT-Line styling, the interior was simplistic with extremely comfortable massaging seats (Even my wife mentioned them ). My only issue with this car was that infotainment system is finicky.… Continue reading Peugeot 308 GT-Line Automatic

6 Reasons why N/A is better than a turbocharged setup.

In 1962 the first ever turbocharged passenger cars came to the market, some of you might remember them. The Chevrolet Corvair Monza and the Oldsmobile Jetfire. These vehicles didn’t last long due to reliability, over coming years after their release turbocharged cars would come and go and many manufacturers went down the turbo route. This… Continue reading 6 Reasons why N/A is better than a turbocharged setup.

TheMotorist digital magazine – Edition 05

Edition 05 of TheMotorist digital magazine is here! Our latest digital magazine has arrived. This month we have great motoring  content for our readers, including a driven feature on the BMW M4 GTS.You can access and subscribe to the digital magazine at this link: https://goo.gl/XDDL2m Have a great read Motorists!  

VW Polo Beats – Great sound for your travels

The VW Polo is probably one of the most popular cars on South Africa roads, especially with the young generation.  It’s a small hatch, its German – which makes it extremely reliable and its reasonably priced. A problem that I find with these little hatchbacks is that the audio quality is never great. The majority… Continue reading VW Polo Beats – Great sound for your travels

Isuzu KB Launch Namibia

NAMIBIA, DUNES, DRIVING, 4X4,THEMOTORISTS,ISUZU, LANDSCAPES, SAND, AFRICA, SAMAYRES

Namibia; located in southwest Africa, is a country of great landscapes. A place where huge sandy hills called “dunes” stretch along the coast for miles, a relatively desolate place filled with natural beauty and minimal people. Isuzu South Africa thought this would be a perfect place to test out their all new KB, and I… Continue reading Isuzu KB Launch Namibia

2016 Renault Megane

After 20 years, the fourth generation of Megane has arrived in South Africa. The 2016 Megane looks aggressive, I like it. Four models will be released, the first of these is the Dynamique model featuring a 1.6 litre 84 kW engine with a 5-speed manual box, no option for auto here. Moving up in the… Continue reading 2016 Renault Megane

NISSAN GT-R 2017

Way back in 2007 a car came along which changed everything. Performance wise, this vehicle destroyed almost anything that was put against it, its acceleration was blistering and it’s on track performance was mind blowing. This vehicle was probably one of the most technically advanced cars of that era, many called it “the supercar slayer”. Yes,… Continue reading NISSAN GT-R 2017

Volvo XC90 T5 R-Design

Naturally, as humans, we have high expectations of certain things. If for example, you had booked a few nights at a top 5-star hotel you would expect the room, food, and service to be excellent. Maybe you decided to treat yourself and fly business class, once again you have certain expectations that you expect to… Continue reading Volvo XC90 T5 R-Design

The New VW Caddy: Test Driven

As we were driving through the Valley of a thousand hills on a beautiful Durban morning, the road ahead swept and as we turned the corner, we noticed the green lush scenery swooshing by.  As we turned into another corner and applied some power, “this Caddy is fun!” we thought. Sorry what, a Volkswagen Caddy… Continue reading The New VW Caddy: Test Driven

What would your “One Car For Life” be?

Choosing one car for the rest of your life is a daunting exercise. If you could own any ten cars in the world, what would they be? Most of us car nuts have probably been asked something along those lines before. Maybe even your top five or even top three. As a lover of cars,… Continue reading What would your “One Car For Life” be?

The low-down on the new Porsche 911

What’s changed with the new Porsche 911? When you hear the three digits 9-1-1, a few things may come to mind. Sadly it’s the date of one of the worst terrorist attacks the world has ever seen. It’s also a popular emergency services number. For some though, the numbers mean something good, something exciting. The… Continue reading The low-down on the new Porsche 911

MSO’s McLaren 650s Spider Al Sahara 79

McLaren’s Special Operations 650S The phrase “Special operations” gets us rather excited, especially when it comes from McLaren. If a standard McLaren supercar isn’t  exciting and special enough for you, you can always have one from “MSO” – McLaren Special Operations. MSO Creates cars around an owners’ precise tastes. They can either provide subtle bespoke… Continue reading MSO’s McLaren 650s Spider Al Sahara 79

Opel South Africa’s new Adam: Does it really Rock?

Opel South Africa’s new Adam Rocks Since Opel’s transformation, they have released some great and innovative cars. One of those cars being the ever so fun Opel Adam, a car that has been a big hit for Opel South Africa. The slick and hip city car which is unique to the driver. The Adam has… Continue reading Opel South Africa’s new Adam: Does it really Rock?

The 411 on the new Honda NSX

What you need to know about the new Honda NSX. The original Honda NSX was Honda’s first venture into performance engineering for road cars.  It was powered using the same VTEC technology that ran in the original McLaren-Honda F1 car.  The body, chassis and suspension were all manufactured in aluminium, the first of its kind.… Continue reading The 411 on the new Honda NSX

Maybach S600, a new level of luxury.

First Class at zero thousand feet. The Mercedes S class has arguably been the crème de la crème of luxury vehicles for some time now. This car is Mercedes’ answer to the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8 and Jaguar XJ. These vehicles are built to be driven long distances in the utmost of comfort.  You… Continue reading Maybach S600, a new level of luxury.

Apple CarPlay gives a new meaning to “Hands-Free”.

Apple CarPlay: If you can’t beat them, join them. The amount of people using their phones while driving is ever increasing, weather it’s taking calls, sending a Whatsapp or even recording a Snapchat. This is not good but unfortunately it will never be completely stopped. Since we use our devices all the time, when we… Continue reading Apple CarPlay gives a new meaning to “Hands-Free”.

Mercedes’ answer to BMW’s X6: the run down on the new GLE.

Thought Thursday: Mercedes Benz’s attempt at an SUV Coupé, the new GLE. This car is Mercedes Benz’s attempt at blending an SUV with a coupé by taking different elements from both, the presence of a SUV but the sleekness and elegance of a coupé. Let’s be honest, Mercedes here had a look at the BMW… Continue reading Mercedes’ answer to BMW’s X6: the run down on the new GLE.

93 or 95? Octane ratings and how they work

I’m sure you are all familiar with the drink “Coca-Cola”. This is probably one of the most popular drinks worldwide and the most widely known. You also get others brands of this product, usually supermarkets own brands with names such as “Cola” in italic text. You see, side-by-side these two drinks are the same colour;… Continue reading 93 or 95? Octane ratings and how they work

Thought Thursday: “How to not crash your car”- managing Under Steer.

Lots of us love speed and we love the thrill of driving!  But with that comes risks. It’s built within us to go faster and push harder, and harder. What happens when you push too hard? How will your car react and how can you stop it from plummeting you into an old ladies house and… Continue reading Thought Thursday: “How to not crash your car”- managing Under Steer.