Part 2 of our WesBank COTY Check-in
We continue our look at this years COTY top ten finalists in this, part 2 of the WesBank COTY check-in.
Audi Q5
Despite glaring similarities between this and the old model, the Q5 is in-fact mostly new. Fitting in snugly between the other Audi Q models it provides a premium feel with class-leading ergonomics. Autonomous tech is now a mainstay of the Audi brand and the pioneering Virtual Cockpit is a revelation. SQ5 is shatteringly fast on gravel or tar, and the diesel, which is in my mind one of the best engines around suites the Q5 just right.
At a starting price of just under R700 000 it’s not cheap, and you could get a very highly specced Tiguan for less?
The Q5 started an entire segment and upping its game right before the COTY awards could see the timing of it all being very beneficial for the Ingolstadt manufacturer.
Toyota C-HR
The origami-inspired C-HR doesn’t look out of place anywhere. The 1.2 Turbo engine is good and the whole car exudes a youthful vibe. The CVT gearbox is not the best in class, especially since Honda just improved theirs, but this Is masked well by a powerful and flexible engine. CH-R has a great driving position, feels and looks super modern and the diamond theme inside makes the cockpit a pleasant, almost futuristic place to be. There’s simply nothing else like this for the R318 500 starting price. The manual is the pick of the bunch and but will the C-HR’s futuristic looks stand the test of time?
Kia Picanto
Could the once bridesmaid, and second place winner of COTY be the bride for 2018? Whispers in the industry would suggest so. Starting at just R134 995 Kia Picanto is a highly specced new car option, even for those in the entry-level second-hand market. Even the base version comes with aircon, tilt-adjustable steering, a radio (with RDS and MP3 capability), Aux and USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity. Add to that an engine range starting with 49kW, you have a potential winner on your hands.
With extra options budget, the car can be kitted to look and feel like it’s punching above its weight class. We at SACARFAN are watching closely to see how this bastion of chic, yet affordable motoring will do in this year’s Wesbank COTY.
Stay tuned for our 3rd and final installment of the Wesbank COTY 2018 check-in.
