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  • 7 Reasons Why You’ll Never Regret Driving A Hatchback
    Uploaded 4 years ago

    7 Reasons Why You’ll Never Regret Driving A Hatchback

  • The Haval Jolion offers excellent value for money
    Uploaded 23 hours ago

    The Haval Jolion offers excellent value for money

  • Buyer’s guide: SA’s safest small hatchback
    Uploaded 23 hours ago

    Buyer’s guide: SA’s safest small hatchback

  • Renault showcases latest in drivetrain technology
    Uploaded 23 hours ago

    Renault showcases latest in drivetrain technology

  • Range Rover Sport the most powerful model yet
    Uploaded 23 hours ago

    Range Rover Sport the most powerful model yet

  • What to do following a car accident
    Uploaded 23 hours ago

    What to do following a car accident

7 Reasons Why You’ll Never Regret Driving A Hatchback

Uploaded 4 years ago

7 Reasons Why You’ll Never Regret Driving A Hatchback

7 Reasons Why You’ll Never Regret Driving A Hatchback

With the increasing need for affordable, practical and accessible transport, the automotive industry adapted their offerings over the past two decades to cater for the everyday person looking to purchase a new, used or demo vehicle.

Sedans, while having been the standard choice for previous generations, had become too large to navigate through urban traffic and no longer offered the right mixture of features and affordability that modern car buyers need. Enter the hatchback, a versatile, compact solution that not only fit the budgets of prospective buyers but also echoed the cultural style of modern society; new possibilities have arisen.

Today hatchbacks are one of the most popular styles of cars for South Africans with their vast range of colours, sizes, features and price tags to suit the needs of people. With these stylish rides becoming an established choice in the local market, finding a used model in excellent condition has never been easier. Moreover, if you're not up for investing in a used car, options such as demo models like the Renault, Kia Motor, Hyundai, Opel or VW demo car, bring all the perks of a new vehicle at a reduced price closer to reality.

Here are the seven reasons why a hatchback is worth considering

Size

Hatchbacks are often seen as being cramped and offering barely enough legroom in the back for passengers. While they are arguably quite compact on the outside, most hatchbacks provide a surprisingly large amount of interior space to transport passengers or bulky items and boxes when the need arises. They also tend to have more elevated roofs, which makes fitting in large items - or tall people - surprisingly easy.

Better visibility

Compared to traditional sedans, hatchbacks are built to be more upright, with larger windshields. All of this equates to a far better vantage point when driving, allowing you to see what's in front, behind and beside your vehicle a whole lot better and ensuring a much safer driving experience.

Versatility

Modern hatchbacks are designed to cater to a wide array of lifestyle and target market needs. Whether a student car, small family vehicle or even a means of transport for a retiree, hatchbacks are built to be adaptable and easy to change and complement what you need it to do at any given time. Taking the family, including men's best friends for a trip to the beach? There's ample room in the backseat, and the boot of a hatchback can quickly be converted into an enlarged back seat or an open storage area. It also makes it ideal for shopping trips or even transporting items when moving to a new house. Most hatchbacks can quite comfortably accommodate five adult passengers and still have ample room in the boot to store luggage.

Fuel Consumption

An essential factor in the changing needs of car consumers over the years has been the rising cost of petrol. Cars that guzzle petrol became increasingly harder to keep as lifestyle costs surged and we all began to feel the tightening grip of living a more affordable life. Demo cars such as the Renault are designed with lighter materials and far superior, energy-efficient engines, and offer excellent mileage per litre, compared to older and larger models.

High Performance & Feature Packed

At first, hatchbacks were manufactured to fulfil a fundamental need in the market: a compact, affordable, fuel-efficient vehicle that fits into the ever-growing bracket of consumers who couldn't afford luxury cars and didn't want to buy used vehicles either. Moreover, that's just what they got: the bare basics. The first wave of hatchbacks weren't very powerful or impressive, they just got you from A to B. As time went on and the hatchback boomed into becoming extremely popular, manufacturers began to invest more time in adding features that would appeal to a variety of market buyers, many of whom are young, professional, trend-aware individuals.

Today's hatchbacks offer an impressive array of features, including cutting-edge technology you would typically only expect in the highest ranges of luxury vehicles. With voice command consoles, touch screens, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi features, smart integration between your technology and your car has become so seamless that complement owners' personality and digital lifestyle.

A compact vehicle that's fuel-efficient, powerful and visually appealing, makes for a winning combination. The interest in hatchbacks gave rise to a desire for sportier, higher-performing versions, which has resulted in a selection of higher-end hatchbacks which can quite easily put some sports cars to shame in terms of speed and handling.

Lower Insurance & Maintenance Costs

Staying true to the initial goal of what hatchbacks were designed for, they are more affordable to service, maintain and insure. Parts are more readily available thanks to the popularity of these cars, and modern bodywork allows for more efficient replacement of panels when needed. Since they fall into the most affordable price bracket, insurance costs tend to be lower than that of luxury sedans, SUVs and double cabs.  

Accessible Parking for All

Anyone who's ever owned or driven a hatchback will attest to this: you can't find a more comfortable car to zip through traffic and squeeze into parking spots. While hatchbacks vary a bit in size these days, most are compact enough to parallel park or fit effortlessly into those tight underground parking lots where pillars often make for bungled and awkward manoeuvring.

Whatever your budget or needs, there's bound to be a selection of hatchback models on the market that will fit and exceed your expectations. At Motus Select, we update our stock daily and have a massive range of hatchbacks available from various manufacturers, including demo  Renaults now for sale. Visit our website to find the ideal model for you!

Uploaded 23 hours ago

The Haval Jolion offers excellent value for money

The Haval Jolion offers excellent value for money

Motorists who are looking to buy a vehicle that offers excellent value for money need to look no further than the Haval Jolion S for sale which has been a runaway success since its local launch in 2021. 

Haval is expanding on the success of the Jolion with the launch of the Jolion S which features the latest generation 1,5-litre engine as well as a variety of sporty touches, while still offering exceptional value for money. 

Sporty styling 

Like its stablemates the Jolion S boasts LED headlamps upfront alongside cool looking daytime driving lamps, while the rear LED lights are equally expressive. Styling enhancements include a unique front grille that boasts a black honeycomb pattern. Several unique blacked out styling elements like the front and rear bumper garnish, side mirror caps, door beadings and roof rails add to the sporty appeal. The 18-inch alloy wheels have also been given the gloss black treatment to round off the overall sporty appearance. 

Premium interior  

The Jolion S features the same impressive interior and high levels of standard specification as the Jolion Super Luxury. Interior specification includes paddle shifters behind the eco-leather multi-function steering wheel, a seven-inch colour instrument cluster, wireless charging, a front 12-volt power outlet and USB ports as well as a dashcam power outlet. Infotainment needs are well catered for thanks to a 12.3-inch multimedia touch screen display that incorporates Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Other notable features include a head up display, a tyre pressure monitoring system, park distance control with a 360-degree parking camera, adaptive cruise control, a large panoramic sunroof, electrically adjustable seats, keyless entry with stop start and front seat warmers. 

The cabin with its sporty leather upholstery is not only attractive but also offers excellent levels of comfort and space with rear legroom especially impressive for an SUV in this sector of the market. Boot space is comparable to its main rivals, while the rear seats fold down in a 60:40 configuration, to expand the luggage carrying capacity when needed. 

Impressive performance 

The Jolion S is fitted with a new generation 1.5-litre engine that features an upgraded turbocharger. The results in increases of 25kW and 60Nm compared to the standard Jolion, resulting in maximum power of 130kW and 270Nm. 

The engine is mated to a smooth shifting Dual Clutch Transmission that drives the front wheels and has been specifically programmed to keep the engine in the sweet spot in terms of performance. A unique feature in this segment is the addition of a launch control function that allows drivers to extract the maximum performance from the drivetrain when accelerating from standstill. The driver is also able to tailor the driving experience by means of four driving models as well as three steering modes. 

Safety guaranteed 

The Haval Jolion is also comprehensively specced in the safety department and features a wide variety of safety equipment. This includes front, side and curtain airbags, ABS brakes with EBD, Electronic stability control, Hill Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot detection, traffic sign recognition and driving fatigue detection. The Jolion S is also fitted with pre-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. 

Excellent value for money 

Currently the Haval Jolion offers some of the best bang for buck as there are very few vehicles that offer similar levels of quality, standard features, safety equipment as well as space and practicality at the price. Those motorists who wish to combine value for money with a bit more performance and sportier looks will love the Jolion S. 

Peace of mind 

The Haval Jolion is sold with a five-year/60 000km service plan and a five-year/100 000km warranty.  

To find your “top value for money” car, Haval Jolion S make sure to visit motus.select and browse through our selection  more than 3000 used cars, all backed by our own dealer franchise consisting of more than 300 dealers.  

 

Uploaded 23 hours ago

Buyer’s guide: SA’s safest small hatchback

Buyer’s guide: SA’s safest small hatchback

Because you are shopping with a budget doesn't mean you should compromise on safety, as there are a number of affordable cars that feature an extensive list of safety features and an excellent safety rating to with it, Fiat 500 for sale.

Consumer  advice, Buying your first car is a big step but it can also be a daunting one. With close to 100 brands and literally thousands of models to choose from, finding the car that fits your lifestyle, needs and budget best can be a tricky affair. 

This decision-making process is generally influenced by a variety of requirements with motorists prioritising these factors differently. Some buyers prioritise performance while others are more concerned with fuel consumption. Many of the younger generation prioritise connectivity while fashion conscious motorists will be looking for a car that supports their image. Those with families or who are looking to start a family will prioritise space. 

While all of these factors will ultimately cause different shoppers to choose different cars, there is one factor that is high on all motorists list of priorities these days and that is safety. South African roads are a dangerous place with the accident rate increasing every year and this has prompted motorists to place a bigger emphasis on safety. 

Safety on a budget 

Because you are shopping with a budget doesn't mean you should compromise on safety, as there are a number of affordable cars that feature an extensive list of safety features and an excellent safety rating to go along with it. 

Finding the safest budget car in SA 

The Automobil Association of South Africa compile an Entry Level Vehicle Safety report annually which shines the spotlight on the potentially life-saving safety features of locally available entry level vehicles. The 2022 instalment of this report evaluated entry-level vehicles below the cost threshold of R270 000. 

A points-based system is utilised in this report by awarding safety points to vehicles for the fitment of features such as ABS, ESC and airbags, while additional points are awarded to vehicles crash tested under the NCAP system. 

In addition to the scoring a safety affordability index was applied to ensure that vehicles across the price range can be compared against each other. The result is a very accurate indication of the safety of cars in relation to their selling price. 

The 2022 study included 38 models that had a retail price of less than R270 000 at the time. 

Once all the vehicles were evaluated and calculations done, it was the Fiat 500 0.9 litre FWD SMT that emerged as the overall winner, followed by the Suzuki Celerio, Swift, Dzire and Baleno. The Toyota Starlet was in sixth place ahead of the Honda Amaze, Suzuki Ignis and S-Presso. 

What makes the Fiat 500 so great…and so safe 

The Fiat 500 has recently been completely refreshed with new trim levels, new colours and new interiors. 

The entry-level model now carries Cult nomenclature and is fitted with 14-inch steel wheels with hubcaps and black exterior mirrors. Exterior features include LED daytime running lights and halogen headlights. The interior is equipped with blue fabric seats featuring a Fiat Monogram and body colour-matching dashboard. A new option for the Cult is a Techno Blue Matt dashboard and the standard list of comfort features remains high with a Uconnect five-inch radio with DAB, USB ports and manual air-conditioning. 

The Connect models build on this specification with the addition of 15-inch alloy wheels and a specific body kit including side skirts, rear spoiler and bumpers as well as fog lights. Dolcevita models are equipped with bespoke badging, chrome accents on the two-tone paintwork and 16-inch alloys.  

The Fiat 500 Sport is fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, Sport badging and a sportier body kit. Matching the exterior is an interior with arrow electro seats and a Titanium dashboard that houses a seven-inch TFT digital cluster and automatic air conditioning. 

All models in the Fiat 500 range are fitted with the same two-cylinder, 875cc, turbocharged, petrol engine. This engine is capable of 62.5kW at 5 500rpm and 145Nm from 1900rpm while using just 4.0 litres/100km on the combined cycle. This new engine is paired to either a five-speed manual or an MTA transmission.  

Despite its compact size and retro styling, the Fiat 500 boasts class leading safety features including seven-airbags, ABS and ESC as standard fitment. 

Finding the right car for you 

Consumer advice, while this study, that identified the Fiat 500 as the winner is one way of determining the safest budget car motorists might prioritise other features alongside safety features which could result in a different model being better suited to their needs. 

The website offers a convenient comparison feature that allows visitors to compare up to three vehicles on their short list on a spec for spec basis, which is a great tool for accurately determining which is the best car for your needs. 

The compare function on motus select facilitates the comparison of more than 30 criteria including dimensions, weights and capacities, a variety of engine specifications, tyre sizes, safety features and many more. This functionality allows motorists to decide for themselves which of the options on their shortlist are best suited for them and their needs based on real data. 

At the same time shoppers are also able to view pricing information and financing costs such as monthly instalments and payment terms, which allows motorists to understand what they are getting for their money in an unprecedented manner while facilitating and informed value for money decision. shop the Fiat 500 on Motus select website today. 

Uploaded 23 hours ago

Renault showcases latest in drivetrain technology

Renault showcases latest in drivetrain technology

Renault SA is currently considering the Arkana and Captur Hybrid E-tech models for introduction, these models promise combination between reduced fuel consumption and improved driving.  

Renault are one of the pioneers of electric vehicles in Europe and they are now using their expertise in motor design, battery energy efficiency and energy recuperation and adding hybrid and rechargeable hybrid engines in order to increase accessibility to a broader consumer base. 

The roll out saw Renault develop E-Tech powertrains, which are hybrid and rechargeable hybrid drivetrains for popular models such as the Clio, Captur and Megane. 

E-Tech combines a traditional combustion engine with two electric motors, one for traction and the second in the form of a starter alternator. This allows the driver to enjoy 100% electric mode for up to 65km in a rechargeable hybrid E-Tech model. The electric drive, multi-mode gearbox, regenerative braking and large battery capacity all contribute to significant energy economy compared to combustion powered vehicles and result in around 40% less consumption on an urban cycle for a hybrid E-Tech model. 

Two Renault E-tech models under local consideration 

Renault South Africa are currently considering the Arkana and Captur Hybrid E-tech models for local introduction as these models promise a great combination between reduced fuel consumption and improved driving pleasure. 

Both models utilise the same powertrain comprising of a 108kW E-Tech hybrid drivetrain that is economical and has the added benefit of reduced automotive emissions. 

A four-cylinder 1.6-litre petrol engine, adapted to hybrid technology allows for excellent performance. Fuel consumption is reduced by up to 40% compared to an internal combustion engine, adapted to hybrid technology, which allows for excellent performance. 

The petrol engine contributes 70kW while the e-engine adds 36kW and the high-voltage starter generator 15kW. The motors can operate independently or in unison, directing their energy to the wheels or to the battery. Regenerative braking combined with the high self-charge capacity of the 1.2kWh batteries and the efficiency of the E-Tech system optimises consumption. These vehicles can either be driven on electric power only in urban environments or when travelling on the open road, the electric motors assist the petrol engine when power is needed. This results in a combined fuel consumption figure of 5,0 litres per 100km. 

Multi sense driver modes allow the driver to optimise settings for the engine mapping, power-assisted steering, ambient lights and digital screen via three driving modes. 

Sporty SUV styled Arkana 

The Renault Arkana boasts sporty SUV styling as it combines robustness and elegance, a motorsport inspired splitter, gold detailing, Silverstone wheel rims with gold inserts and twin exhausts. Signature C-shaped headlights are distinctive to the Renault design language and incorporate LEDs for improved night time visibility. The SUV-coupe styling blends the unique dynamic design of the Arkana with pleasing attributes from the world of SUVs. 

The interior is high tech, the dashboard features two screens, a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel and a 9.3-inch vertical touchscreen on the central console. Connectivity features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and wireless charging. 

The Arkana is built for families and rear passengers enjoy 211mm of knee room and 862mm of headroom while the boot capacity measures 480 litres. 

Expanding the Captur offering with hybrid technology 

The Renault Captur E-Tech hybrid sports a gold front bumper with an F1 blade, shiny black front and rear skid plates and 18-inch alloy wheels. 

The interior features an exceptional design along with a smart cockpit, 9.3-inch driver-oriented multimedia touchscreen, customisable seven-inch digital instrumentation, a unique floating console incorporating a futuristic shift lever within easy reach, clever storage space and much more. 

The best of both worlds 

The Arkana and Renault Captur promise to offer the best of both worlds, including the best of French design and revolutionary technology as well as access to a more efficient yet dynamic driving experience. 

Local availability 

Both the Renault Arkana and Capture E-Tech hybrid models are still under consideration for local introduction and local pricing and specification will be confirmed closer to that launch date. 

Uploaded 23 hours ago

Range Rover Sport the most powerful model yet

Range Rover Sport the most powerful model yet

Under the bonnet of the Range Rover Sport SV is a 4.4-litre Twin-Turbo MHEV V8 petrol engine that boasts 467kW and 750Nm and ensuring it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in little as 3.7 seconds.  

Range Rover have unveiled the Range Rover Sport SV, which is said to be the most powerful and dynamic Range Rover ever as it blends performance and dynamism with Range Rover capability, refinement and reductive design. 

The Range Rover Sport assumes its position at the pinnacle of the refreshed Range Rover Sport line up. 

An exclusive airflow enhanced design delivers a more assertive and grounded aesthetic, with functional lightweight and technical material choices throughout reinforcing its performance capabilities. 

Under the bonnet of the Range Rover Sport SV is a new 4.4-litre Twin-Turbo MHEV V8 petrol engine that boasts 467kW and 750Nm and ensures that it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in as little as 3.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 290km/h. 

Aiding this performance is a variety of weight saving features including the world’s first 23-inch carbon fibre wheel option on a production car, carbon ceramic brakes and standard-fit aerodynamic enhancements including a carbon fibre bonnet. 

The 6D Dynamics suspension system is the most sophisticated in its class, debuting a world-first combination of hydraulic interlinked dampers, height-adjustable air springs and pitch control.  

The Range Rover Sport SV’s high-performance-honed exterior design includes an exclusive airflow enhanced front end, reprofiled lower body sides and functional carbon fibre-tipped quad tailpipes. Carbon fibre detailing on the Range Rover script, front bumper blades, grille surround, bonnet and side vents can be supplemented with an exposed finish for the centre section of the carbon fibre bonnet. 

Inside the cockpit-like cabin, exclusive satin carbon fibre-backed SV performance seats feature integrated headrests, sculpted bolsters and illuminated SV logos on the backrest. Translucent edge-lit gear shift paddles nestle behind the steering wheel with more pronounced thumb grips, while black ceramic for the console gear shifter gives a cool to touch feel. 

The Range Rover Sport SV introduces Body and Soul Seat (BASS), a multi-dimensional audio experience with wellness benefits that allow front seat occupants to feel the sound. It is also the first production vehicle to incorporate a tactile audio system from industry leader SUBPAC, technology used by the world’s top recording artists and composers. 

BASS analyses media in real-time, generating high fidelity audio vibrations to create the most engaging and immersive in-car audio as it works in combination with the 29-speaker, 1430W Meridian Signature Sound System. 

Enhancements to entire Range Rover Sport line-up 

Range Rover Sport line-up has received a suite of updates, including a new plug-in electric hybrid with extended EV range and the integration of the latest generation Pivi Pro infotainment technology. 

The P460e, replaces the P510e, offering EV range of up to 121km. With its transmission when combined with the 3.0-litre six-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine, the electric hybrid produces 338kW and 800Nm of torque. 

The interior has been enriched with intuitive technologies and combines effortless connectivity and the latest touchscreen with the Pivi Pro infotainment system allowing for intuitive control of all vehicle functions through the elegant 13.1-inch floating glass display. shop the Ranger Rover on motus Select 

 

Uploaded 23 hours ago

What to do following a car accident

What to do following a car accident

When an accident does happen, it is important to adhere to the following tips to ensure that you remain within the law and that your insurance claim is processed as efficiently as possible. 

Unfortunately, accidents do happen, but by following these steps you can ensure a smoother process in the aftermath of such an incident 

No matter how safe and careful a driver you are, accidents do happen. Unfortunately, the level of driver education, unroadworthy vehicles and general adherence to the law in South Africa leaves a lot to be desired. The result is that the chances of being involved in an accident, whether a bumper bashing or a more serious collision is a very real possibility on South Africa’s roads. 

When consumers are shopping for a new car, they should do their research regarding which cars feature the best safety equipment and accredited safety ratings. It is also vital to always ensure that your car is kept in a roadworthy condition and that safety equipment such as seatbelts and properly installed child restraint systems are used correctly as they will go a long way in ensuring occupant safety in the event of a collision. 

When an accident does happen, it is important to adhere to the following tips to ensure that you remain within the law and that your insurance claim is processed as efficiently as possible. 

What to do at the scene of an accident 

  • Bring your car to a standstill and switch on your hazard lights. 
  • All vehicles involved in the collision need to remain on the scene. 
  • If you are not injured, check on your passengers as well as the driver and passengers of other vehicles. If anyone is seriously injured, call an ambulance by dialling 112 from any cell phone network in South Africa. 
  • If any occupants or pedestrians have been injured, it is law that the vehicles remain in the position in which they came to a standstill until the police arrive on the scene. 
  • Use your cell phone to record as much information about the accident as possible by taking photos and videos and making notes of personal details and registration numbers. 
  • Once that is done and you get an all clear from authorities, if possible, move vehicles that are obstructing traffic out of the way. 
  • Be sure to record all the details of other drivers including names, contact details, driver’s license number, vehicle registration numbers, tow truck details and insurance information. 
  • Take note of details such as weather as well as road names, landmarks, intersections and robots as you could be requested to draw a sketch as part of the accident report and for insurance purposes. 
  • If there were any independent eyewitnesses on the scene, record their details too. 
  • If your vehicle is damage to the point that it needs to be towed, only use a towing service that is authorised by your insurance provider. 

Reporting the accident 

Report the accident to your nearest police station and your insurance company as soon as possible. This is where all the information gathered at the scene will be required and you will need to give a detailed account of the accident. 

If police were not on the scene of the accident you will need to report the accident to the police station nearest to where it happened within 24 hours. Following this report you will be provided with a case number which will be required by your insurance company in order to process the claim. 

When reporting the accident to the police and your insurance company it is important to be honest and provide as much detail as possible. Inaccurate information could result in the claim being delayed or rejected.  

Following these steps as closely as possible is the easiest  way of making an unfortunate situation more manageable and getting back on the road as efficiently as possible. 

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