July will prove to be frenetic, as manufacturers and importers scramble to launch their new models ahead of October’s Auto Africa show at Nasrec.
The all-important Car Of The Year nominations are to be announced at the same event.
Here’s a sample of what you can see on showroom floors soon.
Chrysler Voyager
The new minivan has had a tasteful facelift and a 2,8 litre turbo diesel version is set to join the existing 2,4 litre and 3,3 litre models. Safety is bolstered with the addition of curtain air bags, while new front fascia, grille and quad headlights spruce up the front. Pricing will be similar, or slightly higher to that of the model it replaces, the 2,5 litre CRD. Stock should be available soon.
Fiat Punto
A spunky new Italian is joining the ranks of Palio, Siena and Weekend. Fiat has enjoyed good sales volumes of the aforementioned models locally, while the Punto has seen about five million units leave showroom floors since its introduction internationally.
Five models of the Punto are being introduced in three- and five-door configurations from a baseline model to a hot hatch. Engines are likely to be similar to those found in Europe and could comprise a super-frugal 1,2 litre petrol, 1,3 litre diesel and a raunchy 1,8 litre in a three-door hatch. Mod cons such as air bags, air-conditioner and adjustable steering wheel should be standard fitments, too.
Mazda 3
Ford Motor Company SA isn’t saying much, but a choice of four-door sedan or five-door hatch are definites. Specification levels are likely to be very high, although local engine derivatives are unknown at this stage. The car could come equipped with a 1,6 litre, (79kW), 2,0 litre (110kW) or even a very punchy 2,3 litre (117kW) capacity mill under the bonnet. The Mazda 3 will hit showroom floors in early July. It replaces the Etude.
Volkswagen Golf V
The car that Golf enthusiasts have been champing over the bit for in the past four months finally reaches our shores. It will be built locally at the company’s plant in Uitenhage, and will be sold with four engine derivatives: 1,6 litre petrol (75kW); 1,9 litre (96kW); 2,0 litre (103kW) turbo diesel; and a 2,0 litre FSI motor (110kW). Songeso Zibi, public affairs manager at VW, says pricing will be “very competitive”. It arrives mid-July.