THERE'S no letting up on the number of new models being launched in Mzansi this year, in fact January could see at least four new models making their local debut.
Three new local models
In addition, BMW, Porsche and Jaguar will launch SA-bound SUVs globally in the first month of 2018, Wheels24 will be attending all the three international launches to give you all the details.
Which new model are you most looking forward to in 2018? Tell us why
1. Volkswagen Polo
Arguably the most important car of the year, in terms of sales in SA, the new Polo promises to step the game up in the premium hatch segment. It will be the largest Polo yet, thanks to a 94mm longer wheelbase creating more room inside.
Expect the new Polo to feature the second generation Active Info Display seen on the Golf and Passat. The GTI model will use a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 147kW. Pricing, engine line-up and specifications levels will be confimed closer to its local launch.
2. Mercedes S-Class / AMG / Maybach
The luxury German automaker's flagship sedan receives new V8 and V12 engines. Mercedes says the newly developed engine generation of the six-cylinder series with integrated starter generator. Expect styling tweaks and even more plushness inside.
3.
One of the most anticipate hot hatches this year is the new Type R, its powered by a 2.0-litre VTEC turbo engine of the previous generation Type R has been carried over and tuned to produce 235kW while torque remains unchanged at 400Nm.
The short-throw six-speed manual has also been retained. The Type R's promises to be agile thanks to its front Macpherson strut suspension, while at the rear, the new independent multi-link system of the standard car has been tinkered with.
SUVs headed for SA
Wheels24's Sean Parker heads to Lisbon, Portugal later this month to sample BMW's latest X-car. The X2 heads to SA with two engine/transmission variants offered from launch: the X2 sDrive20i petrol model with 141kW. There's also a xDrive20d diesel variant with 140kW. The diesel car comes as standard with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive and the eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
The options list includes the latest generation of BMW ConnectedDrive and the most recent update of the BMW Connected App. Optional functions such as Apple CarPlay and an array of driver assistance systems serve up a connected driving experience. Among the optional equipment features offered exclusively in this segment is the full-colour Head-Up Display.
Porsche says its third-generation Cayenne is based heavily on the iconic 911 sports car; the SUV features mixed tyres and rear-axle steering.
Porsche South Africa says the new model will arrive in South Africa in June 2018, but pricing is not available yet at this time.
Despite its extended standard equipment, the Cayenne weighs up to 65kg less than its predecessor and remains perfectly suited to off-road use.
Its turbo engines are mated to a new eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox, new chassis systems and innovative Porsche Advanced Cockpit display.
There are two newly developed six-cylinder engines to choose from: The Cayenne's 250kW , three-litre turbo engine delivers 29kW more than the previous model.
Jaguar E-Pace
The E-Pace will be available in South Africa in 2018, and is set to take on the BMW X1 and the Audi Q3.
The E-Pace and R-Dynamic models are available with Standard, S, SE and HSE specification packs and a choice of five engines: three diesel and two petrol engines. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium diesel powerplant is available in 110kW, 132kW and 177kW.
The 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol turbo units deliver 183kW or 221kW. All models are fitted with a ZF nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
SA engines and specifications will be confirmed closer to its launch date.
