The Grand i10 currently occupies a critical “ladder” in the local A-segment, bridging the gap between basic utility and premium city commuting. The new Executive model slots in above the high-volume Motion and mid-tier Fluid trims, acting as a more feature-rich bridge to the top of the range.

Crucially, the existing Premium derivatives will remain on sale to ensure Hyundai maintains a presence across multiple price points, while the Executive becomes the choice for buyers prioritising a higher safety threshold.

New Safety Benchmarks

In a segment where safety is often the first casualty of cost-cutting, the Executive trim introduces features traditionally reserved for more expensive vehicles:

• Standard ESP: The inclusion of Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) provides a significant upgrade to active safety and on-road stability.
• Expanded Airbag Suite: Supplementing the standard front airbags, the Executive receives side and curtain airbags as standard.
• Versatile Drivetrains: The new derivative will be offered with both manual and automatic transmissions, likely paired with the proven 1.2-litre engine (61kW/114Nm) found in other upper-tier i10 models.

While specific pricing and showroom dates haven’t been finalised, the Grand i10 Executive is expected arrive at showroom floors in the coming weeks.

After a detailed technical briefing at the headquarters, we set off on a route that would take us from the urban run of Johannesburg to the historic mining town of Cullinan outside Pretoria – a journey designed to showcase the Alcazar’s versatility across varying road conditions.

Design evolution

The Alcazar makes a stronger visual statement than its Grand Creta predecessor. Our launch unit, finished in a striking matte black paint (available on the top-spec Elite diesel), drew appreciative glances throughout the drive. The redesigned front fascia features a more prominent grille with geometric patterns and sleeker LED headlights that give the vehicle a more upmarket appearance.\

The side profile reveals the Alcazar’s extended dimensions compared to the standard Creta, necessary to accommodate that third row of seats. This extension is handled fairly elegantly, though the proportions aren’t quite as cohesive as some dedicated three-row SUV designs. The rear gets connected LED taillights and a redesigned bumper that helps differentiate it from its smaller sibling.

Cabin comfort and practicality

Inside, the Alcazar shows significant improvements over the outgoing model. The dashboard layout is clean and modern, dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system that integrates seamlessly with the new digital instrument cluster – a welcome upgrade that brings the Alcazar up to date with times.

Material quality is generally good, particularly in the top-spec Elite model we drove. Soft-touch materials feature prominently on frequently-touched surfaces, though some harder plastics remain in less visible areas – a reminder of the vehicle’s positioning in the market.

The second row offers decent space with good headroom and legroom. However, the third row reveals one of the Alcazar’s compromises. Despite Hyundai’s efforts, this space remains best suited for children or smaller adults on short journeys. Anyone approaching 1.7m tall will find headroom particularly restricted, while the knees-up seating position becomes uncomfortable after more than a brief stint. This limitation isn’t unique to the Alcazar, as most vehicles in this class struggle with third-row accommodations, but it’s worth noting for families who regularly need to transport seven adults.

On the road

Our test route with the top-spec 1.5 CRDI Elite diesel model revealed both strengths and limitations of the Alcazar’s driving dynamics. The diesel engine, while not particularly sporty, provides adequate torque for most driving situations. However, the vehicle’s weight becomes apparent on uphill sections, where progress sometimes feels, well, lagging, despite the diesel’s respectable torque figures.

The six-speed automatic transmission generally makes good decisions, though occasionally hunts for gears on steeper inclines. Once at cruising speed, the Alcazar settles into a comfortable rhythm, with road and wind noise well controlled for its class.

The suspension setup prioritizes comfort over sportiness, effectively absorbing road imperfections without feeling overly soft. This tuning makes perfect sense for a family-oriented vehicle and contributes to the Alcazar’s pleasant highway manners. Steering is light – great for city maneuvering but offering limited feedback on more engaging roads.

Acceleration from a standstill is surprisingly sprightly for a vehicle of this size, making urban driving and merging into traffic relatively stress-free.

Technology and features

The technology package in the Alcazar represents a significant step up, particularly in the Elite trim. The digital instrument cluster provides clear, customizable information, while the touchscreen infotainment system offers good responsiveness and modern connectivity options including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Elite model comes well-equipped with features like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, a reverse camera system, and a decent sound system.

Value proposition

With pricing ranging from R499,900 for the entry-level 2.0 MPI Executive AT to R669,900 for the range-topping 1.5 CRDI Elite AT we drove, the Alcazar positions itself in a highly competitive segment. The substantial R100,000 premium for the diesel over the equivalent petrol model reflects both the diesel engine’s higher production costs and its appeal in the our market, where diesel remains popular for larger vehicles.

The mid-range 1.5 CRDI Executive AT at R599,900 might represent the sweet spot in the range, offering the more desirable diesel powertrain while sacrificing some luxury features that aren’t essential to the Alcazar’s core mission as a family transporter.

With its stylish design, spacious interior, and comprehensive range of features, the EXTER is poised to attract a wide range of buyers in the South African market.

Here are 9 interesting facts about this new model:

1. A Blend of Style and Functionality:

The Exter’s design features is a blend of modernity and sportiness. Its striking features include H-shaped LED headlights and taillights, a dynamic side profile, and bold wheel arch cladding. The car’s overall appearance is eye-catching and modern, with a touch of ruggedness that is characteristic of crossover SUVs.

2. A Spacious and Comfortable Interior:

The interior of the Exter is surprisingly spacious for a compact SUV. With ample legroom, knee room, and headroom for both front and rear passengers, it offers a comfortable ride for all occupants. The cabin is adorned with a sporty 3D pattern finish dashboard and leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob (on higher trims), adding to the overall premium feel.

3. A Range of Options to Choose From:

The Exter offers a variety of options to cater to different preferences and budgets. With three equipment levels (Premium, Executive, and Elite) and five variants, buyers can choose the model that best suits their needs and budget. Each variant offers a unique combination of features and pricing to suit your preferences.

4. Safety Features Galore:

It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESP), Hill Assist Control (HAC), and more. These features contribute to a safe driving experience. The car’s strong body structure, built with advanced high-strength steel, provides additional protection for occupants in the event of a collision.

5. Fuel-Efficient Performance:

The 1.2-liter Kappa petrol engine is designed to be fuel-efficient, with fuel consumption figures as low as 5.7 liters/100 km. This makes the Exter a cost-effective option for daily commuting and long-distance travel. The engine’s performance is balanced with fuel efficiency, ensuring a pleasant driving experience without sacrificing economy.

6. A Comfortable Ride:

The Exter’s suspension setup provides a comfortable and balanced ride, making it suitable for both urban and out-of-town driving. The car’s low coefficient of drag and reduced wind noise contribute to a peaceful and enjoyable driving experience.

7. A Variety of Exterior Color Options:

Choose from six solid colours or three two-tone options to personalise your Exter. The bold and muscular wheel arch cladding, coupled with the stylish alloy wheels, further enhances the car’s exterior appeal.

8. Backed by a Comprehensive Warranty:

The EXTER comes with a 7-year/200,000 km warranty and a 3-year/45,000 km service plan, providing peace of mind for owners.

9. Affordable Pricing:

It is competitively priced within its segment, making it an attractive option for those seeking a stylish and practical crossover SUV. Prices start at R269,900 for the 1.2 Premium manual and go up to R334,900 for the 1.2 Elite AMT.

The Hyundai Venue is a compact SUV that offers a great combination of style, performance, and value. This vehicle is designed to appeal to a wide range of drivers, from those who are looking for a reliable and efficient daily commuter to those who want a sporty and adventurous ride.

One of the things that I love about the Hyundai Venue is its bold and modern design. The exterior of the vehicle is sleek and sporty, with a bold front grille and sharp lines that give it a commanding presence on the road. Like I mentioned earlier, it now looks unform with the rest of the Hyundai SUV range. The interior of the vehicle is also well-designed, with a spacious and comfortable cabin that is packed with features and technology. No wonder altogether 17 162 Venues have been sold in South Africa since 2019.

Another great thing about the Hyundai Venue is its performance. On our driveway is the Turbo variant. The vehicle is powered by a 3-cylinder Kappa 1-litre TGDi petrol engine that delivers 88,3 kW maximum power and 172 Nm maximum torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) on 7 speeds. The vehicle also offers a smooth and comfortable ride, with a suspension system that is well-tuned to provide a balance of handling and comfort. The engine does seem to shout about given the driving conditions, of course. If you’re heavy footed, you’ll be adorned by a loud symphony to match.

Elsewhere the Hyundai Venue also offers a great value for its price. The vehicle is loaded with features and technology, including a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. The smartphone compatibility is not wireless yet, unfortunately. It also comes standard with a host of safety features, including automatic emergency braking.

Overall, the Hyundai Venue is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact SUV that is stylish, efficient, and affordable. It offers a great combination of performance, features, and value, making it a great choice for a wide range of drivers. Our Turbocharged model, in Fiery Red is priced at R429 900.

This 3-seater Panel Van completes the STARIA range, which also consists of the 7-, 9- and 11-seater buses and the 5-seater Multicab with its separate cargo compartment.

Under the bonnet of the new Panel Van is the same 2,2-litre turbodiesel engine found in the people-carrying STARIA variants. It delivers 130 kW maximum power and 430 Nm torque, using an 8-speed automatic gearbox to drive the vehicle through the front wheels.

Compared to its H1 forerunner, the all-new STARIA Panel Van has grown in overall length, width and height. Its has a 3 273 mm wheelbase, which helps smoothen the ride quality. The sliding door opening width has increased to 870 mm, while the loading height is lower at 573 mm for convenience. The cargo load capacity is 900 kg.

The suggested retail price of the STARIA Panel Van is R599 900, which includes a 7-year / 200 000 km warranty; 6-year / 90 000 km service plan; and roadside assistance for 5 years or 150 000 km. The service interval is 15 000 km.

The Hyundai IONIQ 6 is based on the same Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) platform that forms the basis of all the future electric vehicles under the Hyundai and Kia brands. The Korean-origin carmaker does not reveal specifics about the drivetrain’s range or power output of the drivetrain, but we can expect it to meet — if not beat — the 500km range of the IONIQ 5.

Hyundai is touting the “aerodynamically sculpted” design that allows it to achieve a more streamlined aesthetic and a low drag coefficient of 0.21. The design is reminiscent of Hyundai’s “Prophecy” concept unveiled in 2020. The company heralds this launch as the beginning of a new era and claims to have worked on a design with “clean, simpler lines.” Buyers will have the option to choose from 64 assorted colours along with six dual-tone themes for the exterior.

Hyundai also claims the IONIQ 6 has a “cocoon-like interior,” and most of the controls appear to be electronic and positioned on the multi-information display as well as the entertainment unit in the center. The company also advertises the use of sustainable materials inside the cabin, including options between recycled PET fabric and eco-process leather for the seats based on the trim, a recycled fishing net carpet, and TPO skin for the dashboard. In addition, the paints used on the doors are also obtained from recycled vegetable oils.

Additionally, Hyundai uses immersive ambient lighting inside the IONIQ 6 to set the mood right for a drive at night. The steering also has four LEDs that can be used to notify you visually without seizing your attention away from the road. Based on the terminology used by Hyundai, we can expect some of the upcoming coupes to follow the streamlined design. For the tail lights and the headlamps, the company uses its characteristic Parametric Pixel design with more than 700 tiny squares used in different parts of the body.

Hyundai mentions that the IONIQ 6 will be limited to specific markets at launch, and we can be sure South Korea, the U.S., and the U.K. will be among them. The world premiere is set for July 2022, and Hyundai will showcase the design using 3D billboards in Seoul, London, and New York. As with everything else EV related, South Africa is not earmarked for these models as yet.

At the same event, Hyundai also launched the Kona N, which we’ll share more about in a separate article.

And now, Hyundai has made it official. The new N DCT eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is, according to Hyundai, developed to provide the engaging experience of a manual with the convenience of an automatic transmission. And unlike other dual-clutch units with dry clutches, the wet N DCT utilizes lubricating oil to improve performance and cooling in high-torque applications, it all came to live during our launch drive.

The i30 N demonstrates Hyundai’s approach to high-performance cars. By equipping i30 N with N DCT, drivers get performance and convenience at the same time.

But that’s not all. Hyundai was kind enough to spill the beans about the new N Grin Shift mode. According to Hyundai, activating N Grin Shift (NGS) maximizes the transmission response for 20 seconds while over boosting the turbocharger to produce 7-percent more torque. Apparently, this boost in power is certain to induce ‘driver grin’ as the i30 N rockets in maximum attack mode.

And there’s more. The new i30 N is also equipped with N Power Shift (NPS). It automatically engages once the driver applies 90-percent throttle input during full acceleration. The system mitigates torque reduction by using faster upshifts to send full power to the driving wheels. This allows you to make the most of the i30 N’s turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine which delivers 206 kW and 392 Nm of torque.

Additionally, the N DCT also has N Track Sense Shift (NTS), a new feature that automatically selects the optimum gear and shift-timing by analyzing road conditions. Along with other standard features like launch control, rev-matching, and overboost, the 2022 Hyundai i30 N is making the most of new technology to deliver a more exhilarating driving experience. And with the new 8-speed N DCT automatic transmission, you can drive the i30 N in heavy traffic without straining your left calf muscle.

How is the drive?

Our time with the i30 N DCT has proved to be worth ignoring the skeptics for. Yes, we know rowing your own gears may leave you feeling more engaged in each moment, but Hyundai’s DCT is whippet-fast and more than eager to keep you where the power is most plentiful. Unsurprisingly, since it’s faster than a human gear change, it also helps trim the i30 N’s 0-100 km/h time to just 5.2 seconds.

All these cool and exciting features are easily configured via a new infotainment system with a larger 10.25-inch display. The 2022 i30 N also receives Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other new stuff includes N Light Sports Bucket Seats which are thinner and lighter than standard. Also, the new seats have an illuminated N logo to further brighten up the interior.

The new i30 N comes in five exterior colours, including Performance Blue, which is exclusive to Hyundai N models. Other exterior colours are Atlas White; Engine Red; Dark Knight; and Phantom Black.

The 2022 Hyundai i30 N is already on select dealership floors as you read this. Meanwhile, the recommended price for the Hyundai i30 N DCT is R 749 900.

As part of the standard package, the customer also gets Hyundai’s 7-year / 200 000 km manufacturer warranty; a 5-year / 75 000 km service plan; and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km.

For 2022, the Hyundai Tucson is longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor. It is built on a completely revamped platform called the N3 platform, which is said to be more robust and offers higher levels of refinement and efficiency. There are three trims available (Premium, Executive, and Elite) as well as two engine choices – a 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre turbodiesel – for the striking 2022 Hyundai Tuscon.

Up front you’ll notice that the all-new Hyundai Tuscon comes with a brand-new fascia incorporating a dark chrome grille on the Executive and Elite models with either three or four alloy wheel options. (17 to 19 inches depending on the trim level). The most noticeable feature upfront is the stylish daytime-running LED lights integrated into the grille. The rear receives LED combination lamps with a light bar.

Step inside and the interior has been completely redesigned compared to the outgoing model. The Elite model we sampled has electrically adjustable leather seats that are heated and cooled, while an 8-inch portrait touchscreen with wireless screen mirroring takes care of media and other functions.

The ergonomically designed cabin makes accessing the infotainment system easier for the driver, and the 10.2-inch digital driver’s display makes selecting options effortless and clear. In the cabin of the all-new Tuscon, the soft-touch dashboard is simplistic yet modern. As a result of the longer wheelbase, rear passengers also benefit from a larger cabin and more legroom.

The boot has increased slightly from 488 litres to 539 litres with a 60:40 split. As for the driving experience, we had the opportunity to test drive the top-of-the-line 2.0-litre diesel Elite model. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that only drives the front wheels, as opposed to the outgoing model. A healthy 416 Nm of torque is provided by the all-new Smartstream 2.0 New R Diesel, which produces 137 kW.

Hyundai has made a lot of effort to improve the efficiency, handling, and overall refinement of its vehicles. This is due to the new dampers and inclined strut bearings.

A front MacPherson strut and a rear multi-link suspension ensure a superior level of comfort and handling. The throttle response has also become sharper, which is apparent when you floor the pedal. Regardless of the driving mode, it reacts immediately and without frustrating the driver.

With our current fuel price situation, it is worth noting that frugality is at the core of the model, averaging just under 6L/100kms during our 165-kilometre launch route that comprised of both city, highway, and gravel driving.

While the launch of the model was bliss, we will report on everyday usability once we have the model for an extended test.

Overall, we think that Hyundai has taken substantial strides in ensuring that the all-new Tuscon not only looks terrific but drives even better. The level of refinement, efficiency, and level of specification for each trim is noteworthy. The safety and advanced driver systems are also up to par or better than some of the segment rivals.

The 2022 Hyundai Tuscon is priced from R519 900 for the entry-level NU Premium AT and tops out at R699 900 for the range topping R2.0 Elite Turbodiesel AT.

The all-new Hyundai Tucson is sold with a 7-year/200 000 km manufacturer’s warranty, a 6-year/90 000 km service plan and roadside assistance for 7 years or 150 000 km.

Words & Photography by Kumbi M On Cars

It’s not an easy segment to compete in, especially when you’re targeting value. Certainly, Hyundai has made some compromises, though they’re few and far between.

For the most part, I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed driving the updated Kona, as well as ride in the front passenger seat. While the rear has slightly less room than inside its bigger siblings, I didn’t feel cramped. Hyundai’s interior designers have done a great job carving out very usable space up front, in the back, and in the rear cargo area.

One of the best things about the Kona’s design is that it doesn’t appear to have been dictated by a wind tunnel, but instead its in-your-face styling helps it stand out from the pack. That’s a good thing.

For the petrol powered 2021 Kona, the changes for the new model year kick off with a makeover of the external design. There’s a new fascia, with bolder cladding and stronger lines, while the bonnet has been stretched to overlap more with the front grille.

LED daytime running lamps have been added, while underneath the grille the bumper now links with the front cladding. Hyundai have made the crossover 1.6-inches longer, too, to give it more visual heft, while the skid plate elements now match the lower door trim. At the rear, there are new taillamps and a new fascia in a contrast finish. Hyundai has also refreshed its alloy wheel options.

On the inside, like the exterior, there’s more of a focus on rugged styling. The new console features a floating display on top, and there’s new ambient lighting and aluminium-effect trim. An electronic parking brake is an option, while the longer length adds rear legroom and cargo space. Those in the back also get USB ports now, too.

A 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen is available, supporting multiple Bluetooth connections along with voice control over AC, multimedia, rear window and side mirror heating, steering wheel heating, and more. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported. There was no word on Hyundai’s Digital Key system.

Moving around the cabin, there’s more than enough space to spread out. My biggest gripe is the fixed-armrest, and even at 6’2” with my seat pushed back far enough for me to reach the pedals, my elbow tended to slide off the end of the armrest. It’s not as comfortable as I’d like. The door panels are hard, and that’s not good for anyone who drives with their elbow resting on it. Oddly enough, the visibly similar material on the dash is soft and supple, which seems like an odd decision to me since it’s not something you’d commonly touch.

Adaptive cruise control is offered, plus Highway Drive Assist which combines that with lane-keeping. Forward collision avoidance assistance with pedestrian and cyclist detection is also available, along with rear cross traffic collision avoidance assistance. Lane following assistance and blind spot collision avoidance assistance are also available.

If you’re in the market for a 2018 Kona, I strongly encourage you to opt for the 1.6-litre turbo 4-cylinder. Because that powertrain is only available on the Executive and N Line trims, the entry model, which get a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder. That may be bigger capacity, but since it’s naturally-aspirated the turbo has a higher power output.

As I said, the 2.0-liter is feels sluggish in comparison to the turbo 1.6-liter. As for the transmission, the DCT felt much a lot smoother than the six-speed automatic.

I’m thoroughly impressed with the ride quality, whether behind the steering wheel while riding in the front, or as a rear seat passenger. There’s admirably little body roll and, more importantly, very little road and wind noise inside the cabin.

At the end of the day, the 2021 Kona has its work cut out, entering a very competitive market. Strong, well-respected rivals include the likes of Mazda’s CX-3, Honda’s HR-V, and Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Cross. That being said, Hyundai’s aggressive pricing, as well as above-average design and a good powertrain for better-than-expected driving performance, give the crossover a good shot at selling a boatload of Kona worldwide.

The three-row SUV space in Mzansi is big. Huge, in fact. Almost 75-percent of the full-size SUV segment is made up of six- or seven-seaters, and the fact that Hyundai wasn’t competing there, actively, besides for the Santa Fe, had become a liability.

Pricing kicks off at R999 900 for the 7 seater Elite, while the 8 seater Elite also, surprisingly, starts at R999 900.

There’s no mistaking it for anything other than a Hyundai. From the bold and wide cascading grille, to the high shoulder-line, to the short overhangs and rear-drive proportions, the Palisade’s heritage is clear.

Familiarity, though, is no drawback here. I think the new Palisade is very much colour dependent: with some hues, such as white, the truncated grille segments look a little odd, but with its LED lighting front and rear and the optional blacked-out roof it’s distinctive and crisp among the big SUV competition when you opt for a darker colour. Lest you forget what it is, or where it’s made, Hyundai makes sure to slap a big name-badge across the tailgate.

Pride in a good product, though, can’t be argued with. On that level, it’s tough to speak ill of this new Hyundai. There is only one engine, a R2.2 CRDi engine, linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s good for 142 kW maximum power and 440 Nm maximum torque, rated for 8,2 litres per 100 km. We managed to achieve 8.5 litres on our first drive.

The Palisade is equipped with Hyundai’s HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system which adds rugged capabilities so the Palisade can drive over rough terrain or along city streets with equal ease.

Hyundai is, understandably, keen to prove its new model is no pretender when it comes to the rough stuff. The result was an off-road stretch during our first drive in the Free State tougher than any luxury SUV will ever face in typical use: jagged and haphazard rock piles and chassis-testing twist fields.

Happily the adventure abilities don’t impair how refined the big Hyundai is on normal roads. I spent my time in the 8 seat version, and came away impressed with how refined it feels.

It’s compliant but not squishy, partly down to Hyundai’s efforts to keep curb weight. That same stiffness that leaves the SUV so capable on the off-road course also leaves it stiff and reassuring on asphalt: there’s no body twist to unsettle or leave those in the third row feeling seasick.

With the 2.2 engine, it’s fast but not especially sporting. The engine sounds distant and muffled. Straight-line speed is a bit on the shy side, but ample for a car of its size and the refined tuning means there’s minimal body roll come the corners, but even in sport mode the Palisade feels focused on comfort.

I suspect that’s the right decision on the part of Hyundai’s designers. As, too, was their focus on the cabin: this interior feels a level above anything we’ve seen from the company in memory. Well, except for the Santa Fe. Layout, trim choices, and technology all punch above their weight and, indeed, the Palisade’s price tag.

For maximum-lavish and everything soft you’ll want to skip the first impressions and climb right in the Hyundai Palisade, which has heated and ventilated leather seats, seven available USB outlets, a Rear Seat Quiet Mode system that allows the driver’s row to listen to their selected audio without that same audio being transmitted to the second- and third-row audio speakers, so that potentially sleeping passengers will not be disturbed. Hyundai’s 8-inch touchscreen, coupled with a 7-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster are large and responsive. The only setback is the unnecessary plastic trimming around the console, this could have been easily avoided by making the touchscreen slightly bigger. We’re thinking 12-inch.

The new infotainment system is a nice improvement. It has been capable and fast for the last couple of generations, but a little overwhelming in its interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto coexist more harmoniously here.

It’s not just glitter that Hyundai gets right, though. The basics, like space and room for cargo, are pitch-perfect too. There are 7- and 8-seat configurations – the former with plush captain’s chairs in the second row – but even those relegated to the third row won’t be too disappointed. Hyundai promised it was sized for adults and sure enough that’s the case: at 1.89m my knees weren’t around my chin and my head was still some way from the roof.

Getting in there, too, is straightforward with the tip-and-slide seats. The second and third rows will drop down, of course.

As for times when you don’t want to drive, there’s a slight stumble. Adaptive cruise is standard, along with lane management, front and rear parking alerts, blind spot warnings, rear cross path alerts, and forward collision warnings with auto-brake.

Patience in that situation, though, may be tough to muster. The Palisade is mighty appealing, not least because it keeps the automaker’s personality while not forcing you to compromise on comfort and day-to-day usability simply so that you can also boast about your off-road capabilities. Where the third-row seating in some rivals can feel like an afterthought, the Palisade embraces a family by avoiding the “but why do I have to sit back there?” squabbles.

It’s a shame that Hyundai has no plans to make a three-row electrified version, at least for our market at this stage. All the same, there’s much more to like about the 2021 Hyundai Palisade than there is to complain about. Distinctive styling, a flexible and nicely designed cabin, and unarguable off-road credibility help warrant the “Pal” in its name.

According to Hyundai the Staria is “designed for both families and businesses” utilizing the brand’s innovative ‘inside-out’ design approach, Hyundai’s latest methodology for its Purpose Built Vehicles (PBVs) catering to future mobility clients.

Accordingly, ‘inside-out’ begins with the interior and expands to the exterior, answering customer demands of prioritizing interior space above all else.

Viewed from the front, Staria emanates a high-tech and premium vibe with its horizontal daytime running lights and cyclops position lamp stretching the vehicle’s width. The space-age appearance hints at conventional petrol or diesel power with the Staria’s wide-open radiator grille. And in what is becoming a default styling trend to infuse more ‘zest’ in the crossover category, the Staria has low-set headlights similar to Hyundai’s Kona.

Hyundai Automotive South Africa aims at a local launch date of the Staria towards the end of the year. “We are examining all configurations of the Staria – from the luxury 7-seater to the panel van version – to determine what the range in South Africa will consist of. With the luxury derivative, Hyundai will enter a segment for multi-purpose vehicles in the country where the brand did not compete before,” says Stanley Anderson, sales and operations director of Hyundai Automotive SA.

Hyundai is calling the tool Cl!ck to Buy. It enables people to check inventory, pricing and incentives and lock in a deal for a set period of time, plus apply for financing if need be and set up a test drive. You can also save a deal and return later to complete the process, similar to a shopping-cart function on e-retail sites like TakeAlot.

Hyundai says the service fits with its own market research that shows the digital era has made us all more impatient and that people consider surfing the web a productive use of time. That won’t come as a shock to anyone with a hand-held computer-phone in their pocket.

It’s the latest sign that the auto industry is moving away from the traditional model of sending consumers to dealerships for the whole car-purchase shebang, from browsing inventory to signing paperwork. And certainly, its not the first as we’ve seen many other brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Peugeot launch similar services in the country before.