Torque Magazine

BMW Rarely Misses on Design, and the New i3 M60 Proves It⁣
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BMW South Africa has officially revealed the first-ever , an M Performance iteration of the all-new electric sedan. ⁣
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While the German automaker rarely misses when it comes to ground-breaking designs, this latest creation pushes its futuristic aesthetic into an aggressively athletic territory.⁣
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At the heart of the lies a potent dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup. BMW is currently keeping exact output figures under wraps, but the will comfortably outpunch the standard i3 50 xDrive, which already produces a formidable 345 kW and 645 Nm of torque. ⁣
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Consequently, the M-flavoured model will easily beat the standard car's 4.7-second 0-100 km/h sprint, offering blistering straight-line acceleration and a higher electronic top speed. ⁣
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Given its sharper dynamic focus, buyers should expect a trade-off in efficiency, meaning it likely will not match the massive 912 km WLTP range claimed by the regular 50 xDrive model.⁣
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Visually, the i3 M60 sets itself apart with a suite of highly aggressive optional M Performance Parts. The front end is dominated by striking M Yellow Lights and carbon fibre winglets, leading back to bold carbon side skirts and mirror caps bearing the traditional M stripes. ⁣
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At the rear, it features an elaborate carbon fibre diffuser and a unique raised trunk spoiler incorporating two large cutouts. A set of lightweight silver M Performance alloy wheels completes the motorsport-inspired package.⁣
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For driving enthusiasts who demand even more extreme capability, the i3 M60 serves as an appetiser for the upcoming full-fat . That hardcore variant is expected to feature a quad-motor powertrain and simulated gear changes, pushing the boundaries of what an electric sports sedan can deliver. ⁣
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Until then, the i3 M60 stands as a highly compelling blend of everyday electric usability and genuine M division aggression.

Is JMC South Africa's Grand Avenue the Best Value Bakkie in SA?⁣
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When we recently tested the R499,900 2.5TD 4WD, it proved to be a highly competent, if slightly unrefined, workhorse. ⁣
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The is a completely different proposition. Having ironed out those rough edges, this flagship model arrives as a highly polished, premium-focused contender that makes a compelling case as the best-value double-cab bakkie in the country.⁣
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Sharing no underpinnings with older models, the dwarfs the . Measuring 5.45 metres in length, 1.94 metres in width, and 1.9 metres in height, its massive footprint translates directly into a spacious cabin and a highly versatile cargo bed.⁣
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Under the bonnet, has brought impressive firepower to the leisure segment. The turbodiesel engine pushes out 155 kW and a heavy-hitting 500 Nm of torque. Paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, it delivers confident acceleration while maintaining a claimed fuel consumption figure of 7.2 L/100km.⁣
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Off the tar, the Grand Avenue is highly capable. The 4x4 derivatives are equipped with a BorgWarner part-time four-wheel-drive system, an 800mm wading depth, and a double wishbone front suspension. A high-strength ladder-frame chassis provides the rigidity needed for a full 3.5-tonne towing rating.⁣
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Inside, the utilitarian feel of older models is entirely gone. Buyers are greeted by standard leather seating, wood-style finishes, and advanced noise-reduction technology. The dashboard is dominated by a 12.3-inch tiltable infotainment touchscreen offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Active safety systems include four-wheel disc brakes, an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and an integrated rear-view camera.⁣
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With the 4x2 GL priced at R529,900 and the 4x4 GL at R579,900, the Grand Avenue offers unmatched affordability in this segment. The package is backed by a 5-year/200,000 km warranty and a 5-year/100,000 km service plan.

Could the 1075M Alloys Be the Coolest and Sexiest BMW Wheels Ever Made?⁣
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BMW South Africa has introduced a highly advanced set of optional alloy wheels for the sedan and . ⁣
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Available in 20-inch and 21-inch sizes, the Style 1075 M wheels are constructed using an innovative high-pressure casting process.⁣
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By casting the aluminium under a vacuum from the outside in, the entire manufacturing procedure takes a mere 0.05 seconds. This unique technique allows for highly complex aerodynamic geometries, theoretically enabling up to 70 bladed spokes. ⁣
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Crucially, it results in wheels that are up to 20 percent lighter than conventional cast alternatives. Available in Jet Black or Gold Bronze, this vital reduction in unsprung mass is designed to significantly sharpen handling and braking dynamics for the 2,445 kg performance flagship.

Is the New Ford Tourneo Titanium X AWD the Ultimate Eight-Seat VIP Shuttle?⁣
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Ford is expanding its premium people-mover line-up with the introduction of the new Tourneo Titanium X AWD. ⁣
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Aimed at large families and executive shuttle operators, this flagship model brings enhanced traction to a segment heavily contested by the , , and .⁣
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Power is supplied by Ford's 2.0-litre four-cylinder EcoBlue turbodiesel engine, producing 125 kW and 390 Nm of torque. Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the defining feature of this new derivative is its intelligent all-wheel-drive system. ⁣
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By automatically distributing power between the front and rear axles based on available grip, the AWD setup provides vital sure-footedness on wet roads and gravel. ⁣
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For South African motorists who frequently venture beyond paved urban routes for holidays or cross-country road trips, this added capability ensures safe, consistent traction. The drivetrain is further supported by six selectable drive modes, including Slippery and Trail profiles.⁣
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Inside, the AWD offers premium accommodation for eight occupants. The highly configurable rear seats can be entirely removed for extra luggage capacity or reversed to create a conference-style layout. ⁣
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The cabin tech is headlined by a 13-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Buyers can also specify the Mobile Office package, which cleverly converts the steering wheel into a flat workstation tray when parked, alongside an optional Lux pack that adds a panoramic moonroof and a 14-speaker B&O sound system.⁣
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Safety is comprehensively covered with Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, a 360-degree camera, and an infrared Driver Monitoring System.⁣
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The Titanium X AWD is priced at R1,354,100. The package includes a four-year/120,000 km vehicle warranty and a six-year/90,000 km optional service plan.

Can the R679,900 Jetour T2 Handle Both Heavy Loads and Steep Mountain Passes?⁣
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Following recent industry scrutiny about the payload capacity of its T-Series, Jetour South Africa is clarifying the confusion and confirming the capability of its flagship SUVs.⁣
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The controversy originally stemmed from the 's initial 300 kg payload rating, which raised immediate red flags among South African motorists and safety authorities like the AA. ⁣
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However, Jetour said this unusually low figure resulted from conflicting international calculation methods. ⁣
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Jetour International originally determined the payload by subtracting MIRO (Mass in Running Order) - which includes fuel, operating fluids, standard equipment, and a driver - from the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). ⁣
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Conversely, standard South African industry practice calculates payload by simply subtracting the unladen TARE weight from the GVM.⁣
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To ensure absolute transparency and provide a like-for-like comparison, conducted formal weighbridge testing in the presence of the AA and the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS). ⁣
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Using the correct local formula, the verified results confirmed a revised 475 kg capacity across the range. The tested variants actually exceeded this claim, with the recording 500 kg, the 479 kg, and the 478 kg. ⁣
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Jetour is now prioritising a licensing solution with the to urgently update registration details for existing customers.⁣
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Beyond regulatory compliance, the automaker has also been eager to demonstrate the T2’s real-world capability. A fleet of T2 Odysseys recently navigated the treacherous during a severe late-winter cold front. ⁣
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Powered by a 180 kW engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the SUVs tackled snow, ice, and steep gradients. By leveraging its intelligent XWD system, a rear differential lock, and multiple terrain modes, the R679,900 Jetour T2 proved its worth as a highly capable all-weather crossover.

Ford Admits Its Racing Team Predates the Brand by Two Years⁣
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Ford Motor Company might trace its corporate roots to 1903, but its racing pedigree actually beats its founding by two full years. ⁣
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To celebrate 125 years of motorsport, has unveiled a historically precise, retro-themed livery for its factory-backed IMSA GTD Pro Mustang GT3s ahead of the Petit Le Mans at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.⁣
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The new black, burgundy, and gold design pays direct homage to "Sweepstakes," the primitive race car Henry Ford campaigned at Grosse Pointe, Michigan, on October 10, 1901. ⁣
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Ford entered as an underdog against established automotive names but secured a surprise victory. That single win restored his engineering credibility and attracted the exact financial backers needed to launch the Ford Motor Company.⁣
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For the modern tribute, designers executed a comprehensive colour-matching process to replicate the exact Sweepstakes palette on the #64 and #65 Mustangs. The retro suit features the original 1903 Ford Motor Company logo and "Racing since 1901" script across the hood.⁣
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When the sun sets during the 10-hour endurance race, a modern twist takes over. A fully illuminated Glow Pony on the car's profile will light up, displaying a black and gold American flag to mark the impending 250th anniversary of the United States. ⁣
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Taking the historical nod further, the drivers will pilot the GT3s wearing custom fire suits tailored to look like the exact three-piece suit wore on race day over a century ago.

The 360 kW JAC T9 PHEV Arrives as a Heavyweight Alternative to the Raptor⁣
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South African double-cab bakkie buyers looking for high-performance thrills now have a formidable new option. ⁣
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Set to claim the title of the country’s most powerful bakkie, JAC Motors SA's long-awaited has officially been priced for the local market, and it brings enough firepower to make the sweat.⁣
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Under the skin, the utilises a highly potent plug-in hybrid architecture. It combines a 160 kW 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor on each axle, fed by a durable 31.2 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery pack. The result is a staggering peak output of 360 kW and 674 Nm of torque, comfortably eclipsing the 292 kW produced by the . ⁣
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Paired with a four-speed hybrid automatic transmission designed for better low-speed technical off-road driving, this setup delivers an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 143 kW per tonne, even with the vehicle tipping the scales at 2,512 kg.⁣
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Beyond outright straight-line speed, the T9 PHEV offers genuine utility and efficiency. The heavy-duty battery delivers an all-electric range of up to 100 km, with a combined fuel range exceeding 1,000 km. ⁣
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has also engineered a clever multi-link rear suspension setup that delivers refined unladen ride comfort while retaining an exceptional 915 kg payload capacity and a full 3,500 kg braked towing rating.⁣
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Inside, the cabin features welcome ergonomic upgrades over its diesel-powered siblings, including a steering column that finally offers both tilt and telescopic adjustment. The interior remains highly specified, packing generous standard technology and luxury features that rival legacy brands.⁣
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Priced at R869,900 for the Double Cab 2.0 PHEV Super Lux 4x4, the severely undercuts its high-performance rivals. The package includes a 5-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year/150,000 km battery warranty, and a 7-year/100,000 km service plan.

Nissan Fights Back in South Africa With the All-New Duster-Based Tekton⁣
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Following the sale of its Rosslyn assembly plant and a thinned-out local line-up, questions quickly surfaced regarding Nissan’s long-term future in South Africa. ⁣
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The Japanese automaker has answered decisively with the arrival of the all-new . This compact C-SUV anchors the brand's local product offensive and targets young families moving into a more spacious vehicle. While its pricing creates overlap with high-spec derivatives of the smaller , the Tekton is an undeniably superior, full-sized alternative.⁣
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Underpinned by the Alliance CMF-B platform shared with the , the trades its French cousin's utilitarian lines for styling inspired directly by the flagship . ⁣
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The commanding front fascia features signature C-shaped connected LED headlights, a full-width chrome-accented grille, and a squared-off bonnet. ⁣
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With 212 mm of ground clearance and sculpted arches housing up to 18-inch wheels, it brings serious presence against segment rivals like the and . ⁣
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Inside, practicality takes priority with a massive, class-leading 700-litre boot that expands to 1,789 litres, alongside a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, digital instrumentation, and six standard airbags.⁣
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Under the bonnet, Nissan has opted exclusively for forced induction across two distinct powertrain setups:⁣
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* 1.0-Litre Turbo Three-Cylinder: Available strictly in the entry-level Visia, this frugal motor produces 74 kW and 160 Nm of torque, paired to a smooth six-speed manual gearbox. It is tuned for accessible efficiency and daily urban commuting.⁣
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* 1.3-Litre Turbo Four-Cylinder: Standard on Visia, Acenta, Tekna, and Tekna+ grades, this punchier unit produces 120 kW and 260 Nm of torque. It channels drive to the front wheels through a quick-shifting dual-clutch transmission (DCT) managed by a stubby e-shifter and steering-wheel paddle controls, delivering ample overtaking power and highway-cruising composure.⁣
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All models include a 6-year/150,000 km mechanical warranty with roadside assistance and a 2-year/60,000 km service plan.⁣
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* Nissan Tekton 1.0 Visia (Manual): R339,999⁣
* Nissan Tekton 1.3 Visia (DCT): R399,999⁣
* Nissan Tekton 1.3 Acenta (DCT): R459,999⁣
* Nissan Tekton 1.3 Tekna (DCT): R499,999⁣
* Nissan Tekton 1.3 Tekna+ (DCT): R529,999

We're hitting the open road with Gazoo Racing attitude and hybrid efficiency!⁣
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We are spending the next week road-tripping in the new , and it looks fantastic in the metal.⁣
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Toyota SA gave their crossover a proper styling shake-up. The exclusive 18-inch black alloys, aggressive geometric grille, and bi-tone paintwork give it a sharp visual edge that stands out on the road, easily shedding the standard model's safe, predictable look.⁣
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Underneath sits the 1.8-litre self-charging hybrid setup, pairing a 72 kW and 142 Nm petrol engine with a 53 kW and 163 Nm electric motor for a total combined output of 90 kW.⁣
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Over the next few days, we will see how that powertrain actually copes with long-distance cruising, while putting Toyota's claimed 4.3 L/100 km fuel consumption to the test - all without ever needing a plug point.⁣
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What do you want to know about the R575,400 's styling upgrades, the real-world fuel economy, or the cabin comfort? Drop your questions below and we will answer them from the road!

The 170 kW P500 3.0TD Brings Heavy-Duty Diesel Muscle to South Africa⁣
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For years, South African motorists have waited for a large-displacement, highly potent diesel engine in the GWM HAVAL South Africa stable. ⁣
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Now, the automaker is flexing its muscles and showing the local market exactly what is possible with the introduction of the colossal 3.0TD.⁣
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Targeting buyers who demand premium passenger vehicle refinement wrapped in a highly capable shell, this flagship bakkie completely dwarfs the standard in both overall dimensions and road presence. ⁣
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Its massive footprint and high-end positioning place it directly in the crosshairs of premium six-cylinder rivals like the Ford and Volkswagen , offering a highly competitive alternative for those seeking maximum size and luxury.⁣
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The major talking point is the new 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine. It pushes out a heavy-hitting 170 kW and 620 Nm of torque, providing a massive leap in performance compared to the 120 kW found in the P300 and the 135 kW produced by the 2.4-litre P500. ⁣
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Mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain allows for an effortless 3.5-tonne towing capacity. has also prioritised extreme refinement, utilising advanced noise-reduction measures to keep idle clatter down to a quiet 68dB.⁣
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Inside, the P500 trades traditional bakkie utilitarianism for sheer luxury. The cabin is dominated by a 14.6-inch touchscreen running the new Coffee Operating System, alongside a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a Head-Up Display. Occupants are treated to heated, ventilated, and massaging leather seats. ⁣
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Safety is equally impressive, featuring an 85% high-strength steel body, seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).⁣
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Pricing is exceptionally aggressive for this segment:⁣
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* P500 D-Cab 3.0TD 9AT 4x2 Super Luxury: R724,900⁣
* P500 D-Cab 3.0TD 9AT 4x4 Ultra Luxury: R799,900⁣
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Both models are supported by a comprehensive 7-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty and a 7-year/75,000 km service plan.