Haval Jolion The all new arrives - Tawanda Sungai
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
AUTONEWS MAKER
ISSUE NO. 006
DRIVEtorque
@DRIVEtorque
@DRIVEtorque Tawanda Sungai
www.drivetorque.com C.E.O. - Road Angels
The all new
Haval Jolion
arrives
▶ TAMY MOYO PARTNERS WITH ZIMOCO ▶ 2021 HYUNDAI SANTA FE ▶ TRITON SINGLE CAB
Editor’s Dashboard
WINTER chills. Thank God for modern heating systems in our Jolion, with a gorgeous exterior and delightful interior is
vehicles. Fathers Day week!! pleasantly user friendly priced. The fast, huge and galloping
GWM steed is a marvel, taking the Asian market by storm.
To all you DRIVEtorque male readers, I salute you. You carry
that crucial fathering mantle. Why not make it an effortless The venerable Prado and the reborn Defender pit it out. A peek
lifestyle? I think there is so little appropriate celebration and into Ford’s Computer-aided design (CAD) and engineering
recognition not only of the fathers, but of the fatherless too. (CAE) is decidedly surreal.
DRIVEtorque fathers, what if you deliberately intentionally Our adventurous innovative Autonews Maker is Road Angels
reached out? How about you spare a motoring experience, a CEO, Tawanda Sungai. We have a double treat with the
drive treat, spend a little time with that fatherless child that unveiling of their new luxury carrier for roadside safe secure
you know with a look of compassion, a touch, a laugh, a word protected assistance transportation. Enjoy.
of encouragement for simply communicate …I got you!?
The covid nuisance has reared its ugly head AGAIN!! Mask up.
For June the soon to arrive stylish crossover SUV, the Haval Stay vigilant. Drive safe. Sanitise. Social distance.
Drive safe . Sanitize . Mask up
P.27
Mitsubishi Triton built for hard labour!
CONTENTS
3 AutoNews Maker - Tawanda Sungai 16 Robust Land Rover Defender is BEFORWARD
unbeatable
5 How will the P-Series be on Zim Roads? 25 How Ford uses computers to accelerate
17 The all new Haval Jolion arrives vehicle development
7 Small Q, Big Coup - Audi Q2
19 Mitsubishi Triton built for hard labour 26 Mitsubishi Xpander
9 New Toyota Starlet making stars in zim
21 Review : 2020 VW Polo 1.0 TSI 29 GWM Steed 5 is a steed indeed
11 Suzuki Vitara is a no-fuss SUV
22 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe officially 32 2021 Land Rover Defender VS 2021
12 Tamy Moyo partners with Zimoco revealed Toyota Prado
14 Road Angels Luxury Car Carrier 23 How to buy your car from
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 2
Autonews Maker
Dictionary
auto newsmaker|
auto newsmaker
/ˈɔːtəʊ njuːzmeɪkə/
a newsworthy person in the motoring industry.
Integrity, wisdom, communicator, self-awareness, gratitude, leaner, influencer, empathy, star, celebrity, respect, superstar, big-name, famous name, household
name, leading edge, trend setter, disrupter, innovator, big-shot, positive thinker, luminary, leading-light, leader, mentor, prominent, accomplished, goal
getter, results-driven, achiever, deliver, talented, team player, intelligence, confidence, accountability, humility, resilience, vision
Tawanda Sungai - Road Angels’ Founding Managing Director
AN RTA , Road Traffic Accident is industry. Today, because of with our corporate colour: the He remembers the particular day,
one of the most inconveniencing Sungai’s youthful exuberance colour of energy.” 16 August 1999, when Zimbabwe’s
unpleasant intrusion incident in and innovative skills, Road Angles premier beverage manufacturer,
life. Circumstances like this we all is now Zimbabwe’s most reliable Two decades ago, 44-year-old Delta, offered him a lifechanging
need rescue. recovery company, with branches Sungai did imagine himself today opportunity on its sought-after
across the country’s major towns. sitting in some luxurious “graduate trainee programme”,
By his own account, it might It is imperative that the air-conditioned office of a big where young graduates worked
seem like Tawanda Sungai’s entry company’s 64 employees, spread financial firm, certainly not in and got paid while on placement.
into the roadside recovery across the country, have bought some small building surrounded A turning point in Sungai’s life
business was by chance. into the vision of the founding by a car scrap-yard. was getting a job with Nissan
Managing Director. Clover Leaf Motors, where he rose
A genial personality and Born in Bulawayo and raised in in a short period of time to
distinctive traits of empathy “Look, we are very young and Gweru, Sungai graduated with a become Marketing Manager.
suggest a supernatural energetic,” Sungai tells degree in economics from the
connectivity between the DRIVEtorque. “We allow people University of Zimbabwe in 1999. Sungai’s departure from Nissan
Harare-based entrepreneur and to be creatively Sungai quips he could well have in 2005 coincided with a very
his enterprise. inter-dependent, as long as been a headmaster (no offence difficult period in Zimbabwe’s
they deliver desired results. We hey ) by now. In the seven months history, with the country’s
Road Angels, established more want people to enjoy being part he spent without a job after economy taking a deep spiral
than a decade ago, needed to do of us, because our work can be graduation, he had turned to plunge. He had to spend some
something distinctively different so stressful at times. We are a temporary teaching to make time peddling in the streets to
for it to make an impact in the super-positive team. It goes ends meet. support his young family.
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 3
Ever the bookworm, Sungai spent breakdown numbers.”
this time studying for a Masters in
Leadership and Change, a No one ever expects to be in an
UZ-based programme offered in accident, but there is always a
collaboration with the University chance that it could happen.
of Leeds.
A lot of drivers therefore find
It was also around the same time themselves wanting in the
that the concept of Road Angles eventuality of this mishap. Road
was born. Angels’ target is to provide cover
for all, at low cost.
Foresight and sacrifice saw this
hugely ambitious young man sell “Roadside assistance is very
personal assets to buy his first expensive,” Sungai says. “Our
tow truck to give his fledgling plan is to make it affordable for
business a kick-start. everyone. Any guy under a car
must be able to afford. So we
Today, Road Angels stands at 24 are drawing up a plan for a
tow trucks with branches in membership scheme where you
Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Mutare, pay a dollar per month. It is
Masvingo, Beit Bridge and based on volume. We are
Chiredzi. looking at a volume of at least 1
500 subscribers per month.”
Starting a new business is never
an easy task. Services offered include
jump-start, opening vehicles in
Road Angels faced all the trials cases of key loss, amongst other
and tribulations of a new venture. roadside challenges.
Road Angels persisted to a point
of hiring some of the finest In life, we all need someone to
personnel the country has to look up to, and Sungai has
offer, and it grew. successful people in executive
management and
Innovation was behind this rise. entrepreneurship who holds him
For a business that entails getting accountable to a higher standard.
hands dirty, literally so, some kind
of aggression is required to get He singles out men like his former
ahead of competition. boss Stanford Sibanda – the Sungai has come a very long way, right mind, every challenging
Clover Leaf CEO – and funeral which makes his advice to situation can be overturned to
Even what appears like small services guru Phil Mataranyika, as up-starters more relevant. great gain.”
things is important, like acquiring some of his role models.
uniform contact numbers from “In business there are no Away from work, Sungai enjoys a
telephone service providers, was It also helps to be a tenacious short-cuts to longevity,” he bit of fun on the road, which fits
achieved. optimist to start from scratch, declares. “You need well with his choice of car.
and transform into a market perseverance and belief in
“This is what gave us saving leader in a small but very yourself when all others have “I’m a fan of the G-wagon, the
grace,” says Sungai. “You need competitive industry. Sungai is given up on you. You need a G-63,” says Sungai. “I’m an
easy numbers for this kind of one such visionary. He declares a positive mind. The mind is the outdoor guy, so for downtimes I
business. We discovered that a bright future, saying: “the country most incredibly powerful tool like to venture into the bush.”
lot of people do not know is definitely on the right path.” we have. Use it well. With the
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 4
2480mm x 1520mm x 540mm. Its
load capacity renders it able to
haul any equipment or trailers.
When you hear of this kind of
space on a vehicle, you cannot
imagine it having such a vintage
and rugged exterior styling like
the GWM P-Series Commercial
Single Cab.
This is a vehicle to cherish, a travel
partner that you can trust, an
all-weather friend of the road.
The comfort is next to none. Its
interior is dark, with a
leather-wrapped steering wheel,
3.5-inch colour instrument cluster
on top of smart technology, a
modern car for the modern-day
driver.
What will the new Hilux-rivalling GWM P-Series Think about this, you don’t have
bakkie be like on the Zim roads? to worry about answering your
calls whilst driving! It has cruise
control and Bluetooth hands-free
SOMETIMES, it is refreshing to the “sweet pot”, the leaf spring P-Series. The bakkie is a remake calling system for your
throw the rulebook out of the rigid rear suspension needed a bit of an earlier version. The P-Series convenience behind the steering
window when re-designing car of a run-on. For good measure, its Commercial Single Cab is a wheel.
models. front suspension is via a brand-new addition to the range
double-wishbone arrangement of robust, reliable and Every driver needs to feel secure
In line with this, the P-Series’ light which follows through on the full “workaholic” GWM bakkies that when parking, reversing and
commercial vehicles are no range. It is important to note that are built for true flexibility. maneuvering through tight ways.
longer as light as you used to we did not load the vehicle, so The GWM P-Series Commercial
know them! They have become expect this to change when you This iconic bakkie is powerful, not Single Cab’s comes two rear
bigger than the “traditional” put stuff at the back. just automatically, but practically. sensors and reverse camera,
bakkies. You will find the latest To make your travels a most enables you to overcome the rear
model to have a striking You may ask : what of the engine, memorable experience, the blind spots.
resemblance to its opposite what can a potential buyer look Commercial Single Cab features a
number – the Isuzu, D-Max, Hilux forward to? Well, we can tell you 6MT gearbox. It is available in • 17-inch aluminum rim wheels
and Ranger. that it has received a swift facelift. 2WD or 4WD variants. • Bluetooth
The 2.0-litre turbo-diesel provides • Hydraulic brake assist system
The workhorse 4x4 variant has ample power from the middle Turning to the standard safety • Automatic door lock
made an instant wow impression and upper reaches of the rev features, again, you will find them • 12V Power outlet
on DRIVEtorque. Its relatively range, lacking a little under to be satisfactory with the GWM
quiet, well-appointed cabin and 2000rpm. P-Series Commercial Single Cab. The daytime running lamp (DRL)
with comfortable seating area are The include a hydraulic brake and fog lamps help make
outstanding features of this What type of the P-Series do you assist system (HBA), traction surrounding objects and vehicles
beauty of a vehicle. It guarantees prefer? One with commercial or control system (ASR/TCS), more visible in low light
you a most pleasant drive over passenger configurations? If you collision automatic unlock situations with advanced visual
long hours, on any surface. are looking for the commercial function and so much more. effects.
range, bear in mind that it comes
Its standard fare is an assortment with a single-cab derivative. A vehicle with versatile features is This a must-have bakkie for
of every feature you desire in a Another useful piece of sought-after, and a hit with enthusiasts who look for
light commercial vehicle. It information is that all bakkies in modern drives. You can be rest versatility. It’s a workhorse with
includes a hydraulic power the line-up are powered by a assured that this vehicle will carry exciting tech on top of a vintage
steering, adjustable steering turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel more load, due to its spacious appearance.
column, steering wheel controls, engine that produces interior. It is designed with
3.5-innch instrument cluster, two 120kW-400Nm. This bakkie is generous space of one-ton load Available ex-stock from Zimoco.
USB ports, 12-volt power socket, fitted with either a six-speed capacity, a real industrious car! Call them on 0242-885329/30
cruise control, amongst other manual, or eight-speed The load bin has cargo size of
attractive apparatuses. automatic transmission.
When you talk of a new vehicle Drives often worry about the
brand, you cannot of course leave comfort of their occupants,
out the most important factor of especially in areas where the road
them all : safety, safety and more network is a mixture of good and
safety. This latest P-Series comes bad surfaces. The P-Series
complete with dual-crash bags, guarantees you an enjoyable ride
anti-lock braking, traction control throughout, on any type of roads,
as well as hill-start. You will feel that is given. The quality of the
safe and snug in this new kid on ride, in fact, gets better when the
the block. loading bay is full! This vehicle, on
off-road conditions, reveals its
How about putting it through a remarkable versality. It is still
4x4 obstacle to test its pulling quite easy to operate there, even
power to master the course? You though its system is not as
certainly will not be disappointed impeccable as the Mitsubishi's
too on that front. SuperSelect II.
We had the greatest pleasure of Let us now introduce the all-new
driving a new one, so to get it to and all-conquering GWM
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 5
The All New
GWM P-Series
Single Cab has arrived!
It's more than a Workhorse...
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 6
Small Q, big coup:
The Audi Q2 in new top form
COMPACT SUV in the Audi Q which already characterized the the C-pillars are painted either in revised Q2 illuminates the road
range ushers in a fresh product front and shoulder line, to the body colour or designed in silver, with LED headlights, and Audi
update. rear end as well: The bumper has grey or black (depending on the will install the new Matrix LED
an integrated angular diffuser trim line or package selected). headlights upon request. One
Offering striking finishing insert with large pentagons on shared module houses seven
touches as part of three different both sides. The front has also In addition to the basic version, individual LEDs. The intelligently
trim lines been modified, and the surfaces Audi offers the advanced and S controlled high beam light always
below the headlights now have a line exterior trim lines. In the illuminates the road as brightly as
Local package structure offers more distinctive shape. The large basic version, the attachments in possible without blinding other
convenience, customisation and implied air inlets, which are also the lower area of the body are road users. Ten further
an inclusive value proposition pentagonal, also appear even grained black. In the Advanced light-emitting diodes installed
more expressive, especially in the line, they are hued in Manhattan behind rhomboid optical
Cape Town, 25 May, 2021 – S line trim line. The octagonal grey. For the S line, they are components generate the
Progressive design, compact Singleframe is slightly lower than painted in the body colour. All daytime running light. Seven
dimensions, and great driving before, making the front section lines include mirror housings in LEDs generate the dynamic turn
pleasure: The Audi Q2 established appear wider. the body colour, and the front signals independently.
itself as a car full of character entries feature aluminium strips.
right away when it was The colour palette of the updated The optional black styling For the rear lights, Audi offers a
introduced in the market four Audi Q2 includes five new package further enhances the version with LED technology
years ago. Audi has now colours: Apple green is Q2’s expressive exterior design (only on Advanced and S line
refreshed the car, giving the celebrating its premiere with the with black accents and elements. models). If the Matrix LED
exterior an even more distinctive brand, and Manhattan grey, headlights are on board, the
profile with striking details as Navarra blue, arrow grey, and Top-of-the-line technology: dynamic turn signal is also
part of three different trim lines. turbo blue are newly available for Matrix LED headlights included. When the car is locked
You can now order the new Audi the compact SUV. The blades on Even in the standard version, the and unlocked, dynamic light
Q2 from South Africa. sequencing plays in the
headlights and rear lights.
Even more striking at the front
and rear: the exterior design Engine and trim lines on offer for
the Q2
The Audi Q2 is a robust, sporty The compact SUV is being
all-around vehicle as its design launched in the South African
indicates at the first glance: It is market with one engine offering.
sporty, elongated, and unique at The 1.4 TFSI that powers the Q2 35
the same time, and its corners TFSI has an output of 110 kW and
and edges give it an even more produces 250 Nm of torque. The
confident appearance. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes
compact SUV measures 4.208 8.8 seconds; its peak is 213 km/h.
metres in length, 17 millimetres The vehicle is fitted with an
more than before. The wheelbase 8-speed tiptronic gearbox.
of 2.60 metres, the width of 1.79
metres, and the height of 1.508 The standard trim line includes:
metres have remained the same. 16-inch wheels and the blade in
The drag coefficient with sport body colour.
suspension is 0.31 – a
top-of-the-range result in the The Advanced trim line includes:
small SUV segment. 17-inch wheels; blade in
Manhattan grey; bumper in
The Audi designers have now contrasting paint (grey finish);
applied the motif of the polygon, LED rear lights; sports seats and
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 7
index fabric upholstery.
The S line includes: 18-inch
wheels; blade in Platinum grey;
bumper in full paint finish; LED
rear lights; sports seats; index
fabric upholstery and sports
suspension.
A pleasant place: the interior
The spacious interior of the Audi
Q2 accommodates five
passengers. They can get in with
ease and sit in a comfortably
elevated position. The optional
panoramic glass sunroof brings
light and air into the car; tinted
privacy glazing, which is also
optional, shields the rear seating
area from view. The luggage
compartment holds 405 litres,
expanding to 1,050 litres when
the rear seat backs are folded
down. As an optional extra, Audi
will deliver the storage and
luggage compartment with a
tailgate that opens and closes
electrically. upholstery also features Black styling package: only comes as standard. The
embossed S logos on the available on the Advanced and S top-of-the-line version is the Audi
The interior design of the backrest in the latter offering. line models and includes virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch
compact SUV echoes the taut Singleframe in black; front and diagonal which forms part of the
design language of the exterior. Customers who order the contour rear bumper trims in black; Technology Package and also
The round air vents with their jet ambient lighting package can exterior mirrors in black; side includes Audi smartphone
design and the gear lever knob – choose from ten colours to add blade in black; 19-inch 10-spoke Y interface and MMI navigation
or selector lever of the S tronic – visual lighting personality to the style wheels in black; sports plus, which is operated via the
have been retouched slightly. The interior of the new Audi Q2. As suspension. This package is only rotary push button on the centre
S line interior package enhances part of this package, the available with the Advanced and tunnel (MMI touch) or via
the standard appearance of the decorative inserts within the S line models. natural-language voice control.
cabin and can be added with the cabin are able to light up as well.
Advanced and S line exterior trim S line interior package: only The optional Bang & Olufsen
lines. New package strategy: available on the Advanced and S Premium Sound System actuates
equipment and materials line models and includes 14 loudspeakers with an output of
In the basic interior, standard or decorative inserts in matte 705 watts – its performance is a
sport seats are available with Audi offers four distinct local brushed aluminium; S line special feature in the compact
fabric upholstery or a equipment packages which emblems; headliner in black SUV segment.
combination of leather and offers convenience, fabric; interior aluminium look;
leatherette (artificial leather). customisation and inclusive value pedal and foot rest in stainless Progressive steering as standard:
Standard seat upholstery proposition. This includes the steel; scuff plates with aluminium the suspension
includes script fabric in black. following: inserts in front and illuminated
Sports seats are available in index with “S” logo as well. This package The Audi Q2 is a sporty compact
fabric as standard and is finished Comfort Package: electric is only available with the SUV. Its standard equipment
off in black with rock grey tailgate; 4-way lumbar support; Advanced and S line models. includes the progressive steering,
accents. Sports seats can be seat heaters in front; storage and which becomes more and more
optionally upgraded with leather luggage compartment package Displays and infotainment direct the further the driver turns
/ leatherette upholstery or as part with two rear USB’s. The range in terms of displays the steering wheel.
of the S line interior package, Tech Package: MMI navigation and infotainment is structured in
these are finished off in black plus; Audi smartphone interface; two levels in the Q2. An analog It thereby ensures excellent
with rock grey stitching. The Audi virtual cockpit. instrument with a colour display handling while maneuvering and
a great driving experience on
winding roads. Since the model is
front-wheel drive, wishbones and
MacPherson suspension struts
guide the front wheels, and a
torsion-beam structure is
installed in the rear.
The sport suspension lowers the
body by 10 millimetres (standard
with the S line model). The Audi
drive select dynamic handling
system enables the driver to
configure the drive, steering
assistance, and other systems in
five modes: auto, efficiency,
comfort, dynamic, and individual.
With roughly 20 centimetres of
ground clearance, the compact
SUV also does well on unpaved
roads. The ESC stabilization
control has an integrated offroad
mode.
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 8
The new Toyota
Starlet making
stars in Zim!
BACK in 2016, Toyota began its between the two Japanese
collaboration with Suzuki. Much automakers that came into play
to our delight, with both in March 2019.
Japanese manufacturers at the
forefront of their respective The engine, a naturally aspirated
automotive technologies this is a 1.4-litre motor, produces 68kW
treat. Fusing their expertise and 130Nm, with power being
would mean sharing research, sent to the front wheels via a
development costs, platforms, five-speed manual gearbox (like
engines, and cars. The first baby our test unit) or a four-speed
to come out of this newfound automatic. Gear changes are
relationship is the Toyota Starlet, solid, with a surety that the next
which is almost identical to the Over the past few weeks, the radio has a playful, yet gear will be hooked without issue.
Suzuki Baleno. Zimbabweans were introduced to engaging, feel to it. What may be What we picked up on, though, is
a new arrival in Toyota's local an issue to some is that you can that the engine must be driven-in
It is based on the Baleno and has arsenal, the Starlet. And if the car only connect your phone while for both performance and fuel
the same engine and dashboard looks awfully familiar, that is the car is stationary. Yes, we consumption to turn a positive
layout, but its design has been because it is. Based on the Suzuki agree that this is indeed good. page.
tweaked a little somewhat, to Baleno - a mighty impressive car,
look more like the Toyota-esque, we might add - the Starlet picks With road safety in mind even Upon receiving the Starlet, the
so to speak. Next to the Baleno, it up where the Etios left off. The car though there are systems on the car had few kilometres on its
is only the grille and badge that shares almost everything with market that allow quick and easy odometer. Fresh off the truck, the
makes the Starlet look a little the Baleno : its design, interior, as connection while the vehicle is in Starlet had that new-car smell
different. well as the drivetrain. motion. Multi-tasking is not and prodding around town
recommended while driving highlighted the relatively high
However, Toyota brings some of Reliable information says it has guys!! Why not just connect your fuel consumption.
its own attractive goodies from already sold more than 20 units in phone before take off? With
their tech department into the just a few weeks pressure mounting, perhaps this On the national roads and
Starlet's interior, such as Toyota connect while in motion is running at 120km/h, the gearbox
Connect Telematics system; The Starlet can be somewhat something Toyota could consider had to be worked for the car to
in-car Wi-fi and the My Toyota misleading, in a good way. when the facelift comes about. maintain momentum on most
App. Imageni! You also get 15GB Coming in at just under 4 metres, inclines. Cruise control played its
of data mahala , for free, when one would think that space would Compared to the Baleno, the boot part to a degree, but was
you purchase the Starlet. This is be on the limited side, but it is is slightly smaller at 345 litres, but overridden most of the time as
standard across the board. not. A 1.8m tall driver can sit with the rear seats folded down, fourth gear had to be engaged.
comfortably, while the passenger space increases to 1 075 litres. The
The Starlet is aimed at the young, behind him/her does not have to Baleno is about 10 litres bigger in Admittedly, we think the Starlet
the trendy, the connected worry about being cramped for both instances. will offer far better performance
urbanites. After having driven the space. Rear legroom is more than once the engine has been
near-identical, peppy Baleno a sufficient, without the need to Toyota also made provision for "broken" in.
while back, I'm of the opinion that adjust and alter the front seats a the Starlet to be equipped with
it would suit anyone who is dozen times. an (optional) tow bar. When It has a host of features that will
looking for a practical, spacious fitted, the car can pull a trailer make the Vivo hide its head and
and reliable car that is The dashboard is a very with an un-braked towing the Baleno ask itself "Why do I
cost-effective to run. Toyota user-friendly space (à la Baleno). capacity of 400kg. cost so much?".
claims fuel usage of a mere 5.1 Everything is easy to understand.
litres per 100 km, which is not too The dials, with which to operate The engine and gearbox have The entry-level Starlet comes in at
far from the truth on a day-to-day the climate control, is decked been carried over from the $19000. Warranty and
basis. with easy-to-read buttons, and Baleno, thanks to the partnership maintenance.
We shall be getting the new All Starlet models are sold with a
Starlet on test soon, but you can three-services/45,000 km service
read our review of the Baleno in plan – with 15,000 km service
the meantime to get a better idea intervals. A three-year/100,000km
of what we are talking about. Just warranty is also provided.
bear in mind that our review is of
the pre-facelift 2017 model Book a test drive today with
without stability control and Toyota Zimbabwe on 08677
many of the latest mod-cons that 067067
the new Baleno models have.
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 9
A STAR IS BORN
INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW
AFRICA
DRIVES
TOYOTA
VALUE FOR MONEY.
MADE TO SUIT ALL ASPECTS
OF YOUR LIFE.
ENJOY THE FULL TOYOTA
EXPERIENCE.
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 10Suzuki Vitara is a no-fuss SUV
passengers – and their luggage. stress-free.
There is more space in the back
than you get in a Peugeot 2008 That being said, it is not quite as
and Honda HR-V. The boot is comfortable or as quiet as a
hugely big enough for a gigantic Honda HR-V or Peugeot 2008.
weekly shop or a family’s luggage The single 1.4-litre turbo petrol
for a week or so travel. engine option is pretty smooth
and feels perky, but gets a little
Do not even begin to think thirsty on long motorway drives,
Suzuki’s forgotten about even with its mild-hybrid
front-seat space, though. Every technology. More so if you go for
Vitara comes with all-wheel drive.
height-adjustment so you can
tower over traffic even if your own The Suzuki’s party-piece is that it
height above sea level is not that is surprisingly good fun to drive –
high , for those that have an issue for a tall SUV, that is. It barely
with being called short. Its big leans in tight corners and has
windows give you a great view masses of grip which gives you
too. the adrenalin confidence to drive
THE Suzuki Vitara is a no-fuss SUV a little more life into the Suzuki’s it like a hot hatch on your
that is perfect for a growing angular headlights .There is a pair Pick the Vitara if you want an favourite stretch of winding
family. It is good to drive and of upturned fog light surrounds enjoyable small SUV that can country road – if that is your sort
offers decent space, but that make it look like it is wearing actually go off road. of thing, if that is your cup of tea.
alternatives do look more a comedy moustache disguise.
luxurious inside. All this makes it very easy to drive Albeit, this does not quite make
These fun little details continue around town. The standard up for the Vitara’s rather
If you are looking for an inside, too. There are splashes of manual gearbox is easy to use cheap-feeling cabin, but at least it
affordable SUV with a raised silver on the air vents and and the steering’s nice and light helps it stand out from the crowd
driving position that feels steering wheel, alongside a few which helps make squeezing into from the more expensive and
reassuring to drive, the Suzuki slabs of shiny metal effect plastic tight parking spaces and dodging pretty dull-to-drive SUVs.
Vitara is a great choice. Its bold on the dashboard and doors. through traffic pretty much
looks mean you will not lose it in a Sadly, while it might look cool, the
car park. There is loads of space Suzuki’s numerous hard plastics
for carrying passengers, too. and brittle trims feel more like
they are better for propping up a
Unlike the Honda HR-V and bookshelf than taking pride of
Peugeot 2008, the Suzuki Vitara place in a funky SUV’s cabin.
does not look like a pumped-up
family hatchback on stilts. It is a similar story with the Suzuki
Instead, it has a little more of that Vitara’s 7-inch infotainment
old-school off-roader appeal, but system. It looks more Fisher-Price
like a fancy hiking boot with a than iPhone but at least that
memory foam inner? means it is a doddle to use. It gets
xxxxxMeaning what exactly? It’s all the smartphone mirroring
not clear , it still has the latest features you will need to use, plus
tech beneath the surface to a bunch of apps safely while you
satisfy the modern buyer. are driving, too.
Things are sporty at the front, It is equally easy to pack the
where some chrome trims inject Suzuki Vitara with plenty of
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 11TAMY MOYO HAILS
‘PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN
TWO STRONG BRANDS’
MANFRED CHANIWA (LEFT), TAMY MOYO (RIGHT)
TAMY Moyo is without doubt cross-section of invited guests. “We are proud to be working “I want to be a bridge between
Zimbabwe’s number one diva with this young and ambitious young people and ZIMOCO, as
today. “I’d like to thank ZIMOCO for lady whose brand resonates well as other movers and
allowing me to carry their with the ZIMOCO brand and shakers.”
The gorgeous 23-year-old is a brand with dignity.” speaks to a wide spectre of the
singer and actress with a market. As we expand our Tamy started singing at the age
reputable brand built over 14 Tamy, indeed, knows all about product line, ranging from high of seven.
years. dignity. It’s precisely the reason end vehicles to everyday
ZIMOCO didn’t hesitate to practical and affordable While in form one at Harare’s
Bearing testimony to Tamy’s partner her. vehicles, the partnership Westridge High School, she was
standing is her newly-launched between ZIMOCO and the Tamy handed her first ambassadorial
partnership with another very Manfred Chaniwa, the company’s Moyo brand will bring great role, with Childline Zimbabwe,
strong brand – ZIMOCO. Business Development Manager synergies as we expand our joining no less a music luminary
for Passenger Vehicles, said they market.” than the late iconic Oliver
ZIMOCO, the only official decided to partner Tamy because Mtukudzi.
distributor Mercedes-Benz the is a wonderful role model – Tamy is young, and she doesn’t
passenger and commercial graceful and classy – just like take for granted what she has Born Thamsanqa Moyo on 5
vehicles in Zimbabwe, on Friday ZIMOCO itself. achieved thus far in her career. January 1998 in Harare, the
unveiled Tamy as brand She’s not selfish – seeing the youthful artist performed at New
ambassador of the country’s “Today we are here to unveil success of other young people is York’s famous Madison Square
leading company in the motor two great brands, the official something close to her heart. Garden at the tender age of nine,
trade. appointment of Tamy Moyo as marking the beginning of her
the ZIMOCO brand ambassador “Let this (ZIMOCO partnership) journey in the industry.
On top of being ZIMOCO’s brand and the launch of the all new be the opening of doors for
ambassador, the Ndibereke Haval Jolion which is the more corporates to support She is the current best female
hitmaker becomes the first vehicle we will be handing,” young artists,” she said. artist in Zimbabwe as of the 2019
person in Zimbabwe to drive the Manfred said. NAMA Merit Awards.
stunning Haval Jolion, which she
was presented with at a Tamy has done a collaboration
well-attended event at ZIMOCO’s with Jah Prayzah and has shared
immaculate Sam Levy’s Village a stage with the likes of Mtukudzi,
showroom on Friday morning. Mafikizolo and Joe Thomas.
The term “game recognises The international market has also
game” couldn’t be more opened up for her, having
appropriate, as Tamy herself aptly performed at Coke Studio Kenya,
put it in accepting both the Norway’s Oslo Festival as well as
vehicle and her ambassadorial the Mother Africa Festival in
role. Germany, Switzerland and
Austria.
“I’m deeply honoured and
excited for this wonderful As an actress, she is best known
partnership between two for her role in the 2020 film,
strong brands, ZIMOCO and Gonarezhou.
Tamy Moyo,” she told a
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 12Luxury Car Carrier
INNOVATIVE Closed vehicle which need the outmost to the given address. Privacy is The Heavy Rescue division is
transportation solutions protection during transportation. protected. The asset is delivered quite active, recovering heavy
As usual, Road Angels showed safe, intact, undetected. vehicles of up to 30 tonnes.
Have you heard? A new “child” that it is a listening organisation Consequently, Road Angels can
has been born to the Road Angels that responds well to the clients’ Focusing on transportation move all types of earthmoving,
family. Yes. For real! Zimbabwe’s needs. Commenting on the charges, Sasha said, ‘’The charges mining, construction and farming
leading emergency Roadside attributes of the Luxury Car for the Luxury Carrier are in equipment safely and with ease.
Assistance company has added a Carrier which answers their conjunction with this classy In the event of an accident, Road
Luxury Car Carrier to its fleet of valued customers’ requests, service. They are higher than the Angels can assist with accident
rescue and transportation Sasha said, “We are extremely open car transport due to the fact management services. This is one
vehicles. Since 2010, Road Angels excited about the addition of that the car is enclosed. It is not of their key selling points.
has been servicing the the Luxury Carrier to our fleet as exposed to the weather elements
Zimbabwean and Southern it ensures that the deserving or fall out debris. Due to the high This includes dealing with the
African motoring public with client’s vehicle is not exposed to value nature of the cars being Police and Vehicle Inspection
their Open Car transportation rock chips, debris or extreme transported, the insurance cover Depot (VID), calling an
fleet. The addition of the Luxury weather elements during on the transported cars is also ambulance, putting the car
Car Carrier has enhanced the transportation. That is why we equivalently higher. Clients now owner of the accident damaged
bouquet of products and services have now adopted the saying- have a choice on the type of vehicle in contact with panel
offered by Road Angels as it can ‘your car is as snug as a bug’ as transportation they select for beaters, garages and making
now offer Professional Closed Car the car does not get damaged their vehicles and which option mechanical reports and vehicle
Transportation to all its existing in any way.’’ best suits their budget. valuation. Car storage can be up
and potential customers. to 30 days for selected clients and
In this era of social media, there Road Angels customers can still Road Angels members.
Road Angels has continuously set are cases where car owners wish expect the same world class
the pace in the Roadside to transport their vehicles away services when their cars are Road Angels will continue
Assistance sector. The from the spying, prying eyes of transported. The difference here introducing advanced product
introduction of the Closed the public. The Luxury Carrier also being the type of Rescue vehicle offerings to the market. They shall
Transportation Luxury Carrier to offers the car owner privacy as and the extra protection offered ensure that they will offer
its fleet, therefore, comes as no their car is being transported. by the Luxury Carrier. optimum service delivery on
surprise. Road Angel’s Business Sasha stated, ‘’We have had time, without wastage and with
Development Angel, Sasha instances where a customer Road Angels has 10 to date, enthusiasm to clients within the
Chikwanda stated that a number wants a personal vehicle branches across Zimbabwe. The whole Southern African region.
of requests had come from their transported into Zimbabwe or 11th branch set to be opened next
clients clamouring for an within the Southern African month as a fitting celebration of The company can only say, watch
ultimate transportation solution region. They do not necessarily its 11 years of existence. It offers this space for more
which would offer protection and want the whole world to know Roadside Assistance services ground-breaking Roadside
security for their valuable asset. their private business. Therefore, which includes car towing, flat Assistance products and services.
Sasha acknowledged that the the Luxury Carrier has offered a tyre changing, retrieval of car
feedback which they received secure solution for this.” Road keys locked in the vehicle, Contact the Road Angels
from their clients highlight that Angels Rescuers will discreetly jumpstarting of flat batteries marketing team on 0772122122
their vehicle are precious asset collect the vehicle and deliver it among the services. for more information.
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 14Tel: +263 - 242 - 334 304 / 334 418 / 336 841 / 336 721
Tel: +263 - 92 - 471622 / 471624
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 15The Great Robust
Powerful Land Rover
Defender 110 is
unbeatable
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 2.0-litre, turbodiesel Drive: All-wheel drive
Power: 177kW @ 4000rpm Economy: 7.8-litres/100km (claimed)
Torque: 430Nm @ 1400rpm Ground clearance: 218 - 291mm
Gears: Eight-speed automatic Wading depth: 900mm
ONE of the most recognizable of buttons nor is it hard to scroll
4x4s of all time must be Land through. If it is your first time
Rover's Defender. The SUV saw a experiencing this interface by
75-year uninterrupted production Land Rover, it would be best to
run come to an end in 2015, with take a few minutes to 'study' it a
the model taking a hiatus for a while and familiarize yourself
few years. Then, a few years later, with the menus.
an all-new Defender came to
market, with the model Though the Defender has always
introduced locally in March 2020. been an off-roader of note, the
latest one is a far cry from its
Over the on following year, Land forebears. As such, it features
Rover expanded the Defender's Android Auto and Apple CarPlay,
line-up, giving prospective buyers a 10-inch touchscreen from which
more purchasing options. One of to control everything, wireless
these is the First Edition models, charging for your smartphone,
applied to both the 110 and 90 and several power sockets. There
body styles. We recently drove the is even a domestic plug socket for
Defender 110 D240 First Edition added convenience.
and experienced the SUV both latter will warn the driver if s/he this can be forgiven, and should
on- and off-road. An interesting bit of technology is needs to take a break. not be a problem since our
the rearview mirror. With the flick national speed limit on highways
The Defender is widely regarded of a button, the mirror item will Which feature(s) on the new is 120km/h. The Defender is also
as one of the most change from a mirror to a Defender do you think fits the built for the beaten track, and for
technologically advanced camera, relaying live video SUV best? Email us your opinion.¬ doing some proper
vehicles to date, and definitely footage via an HD camera that is One of the Defender's biggest bundu-bashing.
the most tech-ridden 4x4 ever to fitted into the shark fin aerial. talking points is that both large
come to market. From the and small capacity engines Yet, the Defender redeems itself
moment you climb inside, you are Other standard features on the power it. The D240 models, in in off-road conditions. Thanks to
confronted with the spacious 110 D240 First Edition includes a both the 110 and body styles, are the standard air suspension, one
seven-seat cabin and the dials heated steering wheel, an electric powered by a turbocharged can raise the ground clearance
and buttons that adorn the tailgate, two-zone climate 2.0-litre diesel engine that from 218mm to 291mm, making
dashboard. Yet, it is neither control, 360-degree camera, and produces 177kW and 430Nm. clearing obstacles and ditches an
difficult to understand this array a driver condition monitor - the Thanks to the lowdown torque - absolute breeze. The off-road
available at 1400rpm - the engine tyres do generate a fair amount of
manages to generate enough road noise on tar, but perform
momentum to keep the mill exceptionally well when the
running in that optimum going gets tough.
window.
The Land Rover Defender 110
However, in seven-seat D240 First Edition continues with
configuration, the First Edition the strong off-road values of its
weighs 2305kg, which is a fair forebears, but it adds a modern
amount for the small engine to touch that should speak to the
haul around. From pull away, the contemporary driver. However, if
engine spools to about 3000rpm the Defender is on your radar, it
before there is any notable might be best to opt for one of
movement, and performing the bigger capacity engines. Sure,
overtakes on the open road is it does come at a financial
quite a task. Top speed may be 'penalty' over the smaller engines,
rated at 188km/h, but the but the driving experience will
drivetrain takes some strain at surely compliment the advanced
anything over 140km/h. However, cabin.
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 16The all new
Haval Jolion arrives
upmarket sophisticated Assist, Forward Collision Alert,
appearance. The exterior is quite Rear Cross Traffic Alert,
beautiful, but the best parts of Autonomous Emergency
this vehicle are on the inside. Braking, Park Distance Control,
Tyre Pressure Monitoring, ISOFix
INTERIOR AND TECHNOLOGY and 6 airbags.
Opening the door reveals an
interior that is finished in high The Jolion is fitted with the same
quality materials, all the contact 1.5 turbo petrol engine that was in
surfaces are soft and plush, the H2 but has been refreshed
trimmed in supple leather with and now produces 105kW and
white stitching all along the 210Nm. In the top spec Super
borders of the dashboard, Luxury, the engine is mated to a 7
steering wheel, centre console speed DCT transmission. Claimed
and seats. Featuring prominently fuel economy figures from Haval
in the centre of the dash is a 12.3" state 7.6l/100km but our
HD touchscreen that features combined cycle test route
Apple Car Play and is Android returned 8.9 to 9.6l/100km.
Auto ready.
The suspension will give you
THE countdown to the inevitable stylish crossover SUV. Just below that is a small touch another "aha" moment. It is
launch of Haval Jolion is over. The sensitive panel that controls the deliciously soft and supple across
launch took place today with The Jolion enters the compact dual zone climate control and the badly potholed back roads yet
Tamy Moyo the celebrated singer crossover segment, going up 360-degree camera system. with the push of a few digital
driving off with one, after being against heavy weights such as Further down you will find the buttons in the touchscreen, Sport
named as the Brand Ambassador the Hyundai Kona, Volkswagen rotary gear selector finished in mode is activated, and it
for Zimoco. We know that when T-Roc and Kia Seltos. It is chrome and a secret storage area becomes quite a neat little
most models are launched in important to note that as the low to hide your valuables. The canyon carver. The Jolion is
South Africa they will find their pricing reveals, this places it in leather trimmed seats are super superbly comfortable commuter,
way into the country. the realm of sub compacts such comfortable, electrically and you fit in whether you are
as the Suzuki Vitara Brezza, adjustable on the driver’s side cruising the suburbs or hitting
Hardcore Arcadians would say soon-to-arrive Renault Kiger and and manual on the passenger. the hottest night spots.
the “Jolion has joled exsir!” Nissan Magnite. The Heads-up Display is clear and
concise and easily seen from the It should be noted that the Jolion
The Jolion marks the first vehicle DRIVEtorque wonders where the driver's seat. There is a host of will not be immediately replacing
to arrive on Zimbabwe shores, catch is. How is it possible to have USB ports in the rear for charging the H2, but the exiting model will
that has been built on the new such a well styled vehicle that is devices and plenty of legroom for begin to be phased out over the
LEMON platform. This is a stylish specced to the hilt with even the largest of frames. In the next few months to make way for
new crossover SUV that is sure to up-to-date tech, selling for prices rear you get 337l of boot space even more well specced models.
raise more than a few eyebrows. equivalent to those in a lower which increases to over 1000l Zimoco will still cover your
segment? We attended the local when you drop the 60:40 rear purchase if you buy an H2 now!
When Haval first revealed that launch of this new entrant to seats. The Jolion has indeed joled.
the Jolion was on its way, there investigate.
was a lot of discussion around As far as safety goes, the Jolion Contact Zimoco on
what the name meant. Some said STYLING gets ABS, EBD, Adaptive Cruise 0242-885329/30 for more
it was a combination of Joy and If the profile of the Jolion looks Control, Active Lane Keeping information on the Haval Jolion
Lion. Others said it was a familiar, do not worry you are not
translated word meaning good crazy. The vehicle was penned by
luck. Another camp merely said it renowned designer, Phil
was the usual vehicle naming Simmons who has drafted several
nonsense parade. Hold up y’all. SUVs in the past few years such as
The word Jolion is, in fact a the Range Rover Velar and
translation of "First Love" . Just do Evoque. The exterior styling
not ask us for the original makes for interesting viewing.
language. In all honesty that is LED lighting front and rear, 18"
what you do end up feeling and diamond cut alloys and an option
enjoying once you have slipped to fit an executive dark chrome
behind the wheel of this very grille, gives the Jolion a very
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 17CONCEPT AND DESIGN BY PISTIS BRAND STRATEGISTS AND SQUIRREL CREATIVE AGENCY.
There’s an easier way to
buy and sell your cars online...FOR FREE!
WHY SELL ON NCARNDLA WHY BUY ON NCARNDLA
▶ Lower cost for you ▶ Greater Selection
▶ Bigger audience for your ads ▶ Better Prices
▶ Convenient and hassle-free ▶ Streamlined Buying Process
▶ Reduces overhead ▶ Less Salesman Pressure
www.ncarndla.com
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 18Mitsubishi Triton built for hard labour!
Drive your Ambition
IF YOU are looking for a bakkie powerful and comfortable for is robust, reliable and safe to get efficient diesel engines on the
designed for hard labour, do not those long days at the office. the hard jobs done. It has a market contributing to better
look any further than the heavy-duty suspension. For extra torque and power across the
Mitsubishi Triton. Mitsubishi’s unique Super Select peace-of-mind, all Triton models whole rev range. In fact, we know
II 4WD system offers four feature speed sensing auto door it will exceed your expectations.
Older folk will remember how different drive modes for lock and crash detection door
Harare’s city council made full use improved driver control and unlocking for added safety. Peak power is 133kW at 3500rpm,
of the older L200. If City of Harare passenger safety. while torque is an impressive
doesn’t provide sufficient Single Cab-Cab Chassis 4x4 430Nm at 2500rpm across both
recommendation, stop by at The 4H drive mode distributes models have Easy Select 4WD manual and automatic
ZESA. Zimbabwe’s electricity torque in a 40:60 ratio between which allows you to switch transmission models. The world’s
supplier had a very long and the front and rear wheels for safer between 2WD and 4WD on the trusted innovation, light-weight,
satisfying working relationship on-road driving in slippery move at speeds under 100km/h Tough, Durable, Excellent cooling
with the Mitsubishi Triton. conditions – dirt, gravel and wet with the touch of a dial. system will give you a 20%
roads. 4HLc (4WD High range improvement in fuel economy on
So, imagine having this beast of a with CD locked) distributes Display audio controls with the older model.
vehicle in your business. It is a torque equally between the front Bluetooth phone connectivity,
bakkie with cutting-edge design, and rear wheels for improved USB Port and steering wheel The lightweight engine achieves
with everything you need to traction on sand, dirt and slippery audio, phone and cruise control low fuel consumption and CO2
make driving less strenuous. surfaces like snow. switches are also close at hand, emissions across the range, while
ensuring you remain safely also delivering outstanding
It includes a powerful engine, Six speeds give you total control focused on the road ahead. power and performance. MIVEC is
robust control and spacious cab. of power delivery to match a bit of a mouthful! MIVEC
It’s massive load capacity of up to whatever driving conditions you It also features a (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve
1950-kgs offers you all the space may face. The smooth stick Multi-Information Display where timing Electronic Control system)
you need to carry heavy material. action, shorter stroke and lighter information such as trip is the name for the engines
There is the perfect distance from clutch all make for an easier computer and average fuel equipped with the variable valve
ground tailgate, which makes it operation, making it more of a consumption are all within easy timing mechanism developed by
easy for loading. normal car than a pickup truck. sight of the driver. Mitsubishi Motors.
The new Triton bakkie uses a To help keep the bakkie moving Tilt and telescopic steering is We’ve been focusing on
chassis frame with superior in the toughest conditions, it is standard across the Triton range, technologies that control valve
durability and toughness, fitted a switchable rear allowing even the fussiest driver timing because we realised it's
offering more effective differential lock. This locks the to find the most comfortable the way to achieve high power
reinforcement as well as resisting rear differential in place and driving position to suit. output, low fuel consumption
bending. helps distribute power evenly to and low exhaust emissions. An
both rear wheels. At the core of Triton sits this intercooler is an intake air cooling
This vehicle is a powerful bakkie, refined and super-responsive 2.4L device. It cools the air and
no doubt, its 2 400 changes and It has Bluetooth with music DOHC MIVEC 16 valve common increases the density of the air
enhancements being the latest streaming. So, it’s easy to play rail intercooled diesel engine. An that is compressed by the
feature. With an overhaul to the your favourite tracks on your aluminium cylinder block, and turbocharger.
body and a plethora of new smartphone music through the strong yet lightweight materials
technological innovations, it's a car stereo. reduce weight, and with a Available ex-stock from Zimoco.
whole lot of automobile. The compression ratio of 15.5:1, it’s Call them on 0242-885329/30
Mitsubishi Triton is durable, The GLX Single Cab-Cab Chassis among the quietest and most
SPECIFICATIONS Transmission: 6-speed M/T
Engine Type: MIVEC DOHC Intercooled Turbo Diesel Turning Radius: 5.9m
Fuel System: Common Rail Direct Injection Ground Clearance: 220mm
Max. Output: 133kW@3500rpm Fuel Tank Capacity: 75litres
Max. Torque: 430Nm@2500rpm Fuel Consumption: 7.5L/100km (Combined Cycle)
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 19Never complains about working conditions
Engine Type: MIVEC DOHC Intercooled Turbo Diesel
Fuel System: Common Rail Direct Injection
Available
Max. Output: 133kW@3500rpm
Max. Torque: 430Nm@2500rpm
Ex-Stock
Transmission: 5-speed M/T
Turning Radius: 5.9m
Ground Clearance: 220mm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 75litres
Fuel Consumption: 7.5L/100km (Combined Cycle)
Sam Levy’s Village Showroom:
Shop III, Borrowdale, Harare
Tel : (+263 242) 885 729/30, 885 744/45, 885 748/49/50
Email : Enquiries@zimoco.co.zw
Website : Www.zimoco.co.zw
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 202020 Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI
First Drive Review
THE Volkswagen Polo hatchback sixth-gear, as expected pays great preferred a few more contrasting board a generally fresh look.
has seen one great dividends. At 100 kmph, you are materials and colours.
transformation. Yes, the 1.2 TSI sitting at around 2,000 rpm, As it stands, the Polo TSI
has always been available on the which leaves you the entire power Equipment levels are continues to be the car for you,
top-spec GT TSI trim. Comfortline band to play with when making a competitive. You get cruise that is, if you put driving pleasure
Plus and Highline Plus variants. quick overtake. To top this off, this control, auto wipers, rear AC vents at a premium. This is even more
spirited nature does not come at and a 6.5-inch touchscreen with so now, given that the turbo
At first, a drop-in displacement the cost of efficiency. Our testing Android Auto/Apple Carplay. option can be had with a manual
and the switch from four to three dished us an impressive 19.62 There are some misses like the as well. The top-spec GT trim now
cylinders might not seem kmpl on the highway and 16.75 reversing camera and the gets a torque-convertor. VW has
promising. In fact, start the kmpl in the city. push-button start. We do suspect also done a damn good job with
engine up and there is a distinct that perhaps that might have the BSVI Polo's pricing. This is
three-cylinder thrum and The rest of the mechanicals something to do with the roughly on par with the Altroz
noticeable vibrations through the complement this drivetrain very limitations of this old and current i20, but you get a
steering wheel and pedals. well too. The new architecture, rather than it being dynamically superior car. The
leather-wrapped steering wheel a case of VW trying to cut corners. reasonable fuel economy
Wait! Do not dismiss it just yet! is quite good to handle. It is also Safety is also par-for-the-course numbers, and an ever closing gap
The 999cc turbo-petrol unit precise and well-weighted, much with two airbags available as in petrol and diesel prices, should
makes 5PS more than before, like in the Polo's larger, newer standard. mean that the loss of the diesel
110PS at 5000-5500 rpm and an siblings. Even the ride quality version does not hurt too much.
identical 175 Nm at 1750 - 4000 belies the Polo's size. Some deep Volkswagen had updated the
rpm. Once on the move, you will sharp imperfections come with look of the Polo and Vento last The Polo's TSI's closest
notice that the power delivery is the package, but other than that, year, and that has transferred to competition like the Baleno RS
somewhat muted, up until just the hatchback remains well this engine upgrade. These and Abarth Punto are not around
below 2,000 rpm. In practice, this poised. amount to the GTi derived any longer. This means that apart
means that you will need to work three-part front bumper, the from the Hyundai Nios Turbo,
the gears in city traffic a little Even at triple-digit speeds the honeycomb grille, the there is not much to go up
more than ideal to keep constant Polo remains very well planted. In contrasting rocker panels on the against the turbo-ed Polo. The
progress. fact, do try to have some fun with sides and the faux diffuser fitted new i20 and the Altroz are set to
this hatchback like we did. It is to the rear bumper. New paint get turbo engines soon, at which
With these conditions, the power quite apparent why this VW has options like this Flash Red have point the Polo might have its
delivery remains consistent. become a favourite in the Indian been added. Seen here is the work cut out for it. Until we have a
There is no unwarranted ebbs or rally scene. Its chassis feels very limited-run TSI edition with the ground-up replacement for the
spikes. The six-speed gearbox' secure and well balanced, most gloss black roof, outer mirror and Polo in a couple of years, these
stubby gear shifter is really cool to inputs lead to predictable spoiler and the TSI decals. The changes are enough to keep
hold. The throws are not very long responses. The 16-inch, 195/65 Polo's straightforward lines and making the numbers for
and the gates are quite Goodyear tyres complement this simple shapes have held on well. Volkswagen.
well-defined. The progressive, character very well. The cosmetic updates bring on
well-weighted clutch adds to At this point, you will notice that
keeping the entire experience we still have not yet addressed
fairly unstressed. the elephant in the room? The
Polo's age! This is with good
Things become much sharper as reason. The Polo has been around
you start winding out the motor for the better part of a decade.
further. Over 2,000 rpm the Driving around in it though, that
motor pulls strongly through its thought rarely crosses your mind.
mid-range, right up to about Dynamically, the VW remains
6,000 rpm. There is a delightful closer to the top of its class even
purr to the engine at this stage. till now. This sense of
Moreover, most of the low-speed timelessness does not hold up
vibrations fade away. The car quite as well on the inside. Sure
becomes much more responsive enough, the fit, finish and quality
here. The predictable throttle of the materials are probably the
response makes it very easy to best in the class. The space gets
stay in control while making good let down by the broad expanses
progress. Out on the highway, the of grey plastic. We would have
www.drivetorque.com DRIVEtorque JUNE 2021 | PAGE 21You can also read
