Category: Motoring

Foremost automobile dealer and sole representatives of the Renault brand in Nigeria, Coscharis Motors Plc, has announced a free service voucher worth N150,000 for every Renault vehicle purchased from the company.

General Manager, Renault Sales, Coscharis Motors, Sola Adigun, made this known during the just concluded Lagos Motor Fair.

Adigun said: “We want to use the opportunity of our presence at this motor fair to announce to our customers and prospects that we will be offering a free service voucher worth N150, 000 for every Renault vehicle purchased from Coscharis Motors at this motor fair and afterwards.”

Adigun mentioned that the free service voucher is one of the exciting giveaways, which Renault customers stand to gain from buying a Renault vehicle from Coscharis Motors Plc. However, the free service voucher offer promo extends beyond the just-concluded motor fair to all Coscharis showrooms across the country until July 30.

Also still available for customers to have an easy access to purchase any of their preferred Renault vehicles is the finance scheme from the sister company, Coscharis Mobility that provides payment spread over a period of time after 30 percent initial deposit of the principal value.

Also, General Manager Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, Abiona Babarinde said: “We are still assembling two variants of the Renault brand locally, at our assembly plant in Awoyaya, Lagos namely Logan and Duster respectively. Clearly, we have the capacity to add more variants to our local assembly line and hope that the time will soon come when the infrastructural deficit in the country will improve to give conducive business environment to investors like Coscharis that still believe in our nation Nigeria. Then we shall gladly increase the number of locally assembled variants and probably assemble all the variants that we market in the country. More importantly for us is that this gives us the opportunity to deliver value to the bigger economy in terms of job employment, among other economic advantages with the sustenance and expansion of the local assemblies across the country.

Likewise, Coscahris offers trade-in option to customers who currently own a Renault vehicle and wish to exchange for a new model.

Renault was one of the brands which put up an outstanding presence at the recently concluded Lagos Motor Fair. Five variants of the brand were put on display for visitors at the fair, including Logan and Duster.

Elizade Auto Land has introduced JAC J7 Sleek into the Nigerian market.

Call it a masterpiece, or a star or a dream come true or a show stopper. With whichever you decide to settle with, you are absolutely right.

All the aforementioned adjectives can rightly be used to describe the wonders on wheels- aptly called the JAC J7, and nicknamed

 

The Sleek

This car, which is one of the outcomes of the recent collaboration between Volkswagen and JAC Autos, was unveiled last week to distinguished guests in a high profile event in Lagos.

The unveiling was witnessed by ace comedian Ali Baba and select top nollywood artistes and corporate customers of the Elizade Autoland, including the representative of the Lagos State Government, Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde, and Managing Director/CEO, Coleman Wires and Cables, George Onafowokan, who were astonished by the beauty and performance of the car.

Chairman/founder of Elizade, Chief Michael Ade.Ojo, who said he was impressed with the remarkable performance of the JAC brand in Nigeria in less than 10 years, noted that the introduction of the J7 indicated the general acceptability of the JAC brand.

Managing Director of Elizade Autoland, Mr. Ademola Ade-Ojo,

recounted the interesting nine-year experience of the auto company in building confidence in the buyers about the brand.

He noted that they were encouraged by the customers’ warm acceptance and continued improvement in the design and overall performance of the JAC models in the passenger, commercial and light duty trucks.

He also stated that after the acquisition of 75 per cent of JAC by

Volkswagen, “the merger and acquisition has helped to improve

the design, quality, specification and overall experience of the passenger vehicles. The first set of car models birthed from this German- Asian infusion among others is the all-new exclusive.

He announced a N1m discount for the first 10 customers to buy the vehicle immediately after the launch.

Head of Brand and Marketing Communication at the Elizade Autoland, Mr Franklyn Okotie, gave the synopsis of the car’s features.

The J7, he said, had been designed with an abundance of trailblazing features that harnessed the latest technological breakthroughs to move riders from their take-off point to the destination in turbo-speed.

Other key and selling features of the 1.5 litre engine, according to him, are its fuel economy, yet fast-running and sleekness.

The J7 is said to present a sporty, waterfall intake grille as its unique front design and well detailed LED headlamps forming a tunning front appearance.

And the unique threading rear backlight gives the car design a wider and sporty appearance with a streamlined hatchback body.

The Tail lift has an elevated height to take in bigger items when opened.

According to the auto firm, you don’t need to touch the key to open the trunk or the car doors, the censor button on your car key controls all the locking and unlocking features even while in your pocket.

The future you used to chase is now at your doorstep. Push to start your journey into a new era with just one touch on a censor button powered by an automatic ignition.

The state-of-the-art interior design is said to have been conceived for maximum comfort with quality leather seats and a dashboard that is classy and beautiful to behold.

From all indications, MG HS has been attracting curiosity and positive attention across Nigeria.

According to Anurag Shah, General Manager, Stallion MG Automobiles Limited, the representatives of the British brand Morris Garages brand in Nigeria, MG HS’ increasing acceptance is not unconnected with its incredible, quality features, which many of its rivals do not have.

Shah stated: “Auto enthusiasts are discovering that MG HS is not only value for money, when compared with its competitors in terms of safety, styling, interior design and equipment, the car comes with more either in number or sophistication and quality.”

Evidently, MG HS recorded 5-star rating, the highest from European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP).

Featuring a rugged build from high tensile steel, the HS is equipped with six airbags, Hill Start Assist Control, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Changing Warning, and more.

“While the engineers behind the MG HS did not attempt to reinvent the wheel,” Stallion MG Automobiles’ GM said, “they successfully stocked to the four-letter word- MORE, while adding modern and futuristic features that empowers HS to effectively undercut its rivals.

Also, MG HS comes with the Lane-Assist System and Blind Spot Warning, which issues a warning, if there is another vehicle during the lane change or in the blind spot.

MG HS boasts the largest virtual instrument panel in its class, with the 12.3-inch virtual cockpit, providing access to all the key driving information. At the heart of its console, a 10.1-inch colour touch-screen connects to your smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, giving access to all the infotainment you require. With GPS, Navigation, a premium sound system, and the MG Trophy Dream Air Quality Management System also available, you’re guaranteed a comfortable drive every time.

“Our HS parades all the driving comfort features that appeal to Nigerian auto lovers,” Shah stated, adding, “One of them is Paddle Shifters, which allows you to shift gear while holding the steering wheel without having to move your hand to the gear lever. This feature does not only add to your driving comfort, it makes the gear change safer and quicker.”

A compact crossover SUV made by SAIC Motor under the British MG marquee, MG HS SUV is not only large, charming and head-turning; its designer embraced the concept of X-Motion, which explains why the SUV exudes a real drive to do more.

MG HS flaunts a flowing roofline, smart lighting, electric heated and folding door mirrors, LED daytime running lights and chrome accents for added appeal.

Drivers can also choose from a number of premium finishes including Pearl White, Surfing Blue, Phantom Red and more. Modern, smart and comfortable, MG HS’ cabin is covered in 85 per cent leather, with black, red and beige finishes among those available. For driver and passengers, the SUV offers racing style sports bucket seats, which include a six-way powered driver seat and four-way powered passenger seat, with exceptional lumbar support, enabling you to get comfortable with a minimum of fuss. It also comes with a stunning panoramic sunroof as well as Dual Zone Climate Control AC and rear AC vent, which provides the perfect driving environment.

Powered by a two-litre High Efficiency Turbo Engine, which delivers a torque of 360Nm with a maximum speed of 210km/h, MG HS comes with a push-button start, plus Super Sport and Eco driving modes.

Given its solid strength, loads of safety and equipment features and head-turning styling, the MG HS  on sale in Nigeria is capable of giving its rivals a run for their money.

“If you’re looking for a mid-size SUV that offers with great levels of safety and incredible value for money, MG HS is your sure answer,” Shah added.

The stage is set for a meeting involving chief executives/ managing directors of major auto firms in Nigeria and heads of government agencies regulating the industry, scheduled to hold in Abuja on May 26.

It is the maiden Auto CEOs Forum being put together by Concerned Auto Editors, in conjunction with National Automotive Design and Development Council.

The forum, according to the organisers, will X-ray major issues adversely affecting the operations and slowing down the development of auto industry in the country and proffer workable solutions expected to be executed by these critical stakeholders.

Specifically, the forum will address issues such as the auto policy, local assembly plants and low patronage of local assembled vehicles, import levies/duties; exchange rate policy as it affect auto business; and vehicle clearing-related problems.

The organisers listed government agencies participating at the forum, apart from the NADDC, as the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Inland Revenue Service, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Central Bank of Nigeria, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ministry of Finance, terminal operators, and association of clearing Agents.

Auto companies whose CEOs are featuring in the maiden edition of the event are Toyota Nigeria Limited, Weststar Associates, Innoson Motor, Pan Nigeria, Lanre Shittu Motors, CFAO, Kia Nigeria, Nord Automobiles, TSS Automobile, Dangote Peugeot Automobile/Sinotruck, Coscharis Motors, CIG Motors, Tata Motors, Jet Motor Company (Jet Systems) and Omaa Motors.

The DG NADDC, Jelani Aliyu, said the agency is excited about the Auto CEOs Forum initiative and expressed hope that the parley would provided the needed opportunity to resolve those issues that had set the industry back and enable the stakeholders to forge a new relationship for speedy growth of the auto sector.

CFAO Motors, a subsidiary of the CFAO Group, the largest automotive distribution network in Africa with over 158 subsidiaries, has  launched LOXEA by CFAO in Nigeria.

Already in 22 African countries, LOXEA offers operating lease and fleet management solutions. Now customers can have better access to the CFAO range of products; Mitsubishi and Suzuki cars, Fuso trucks, King Long buses, Toyota forklifts and JCB construction equipment.

According to Mr. Philippe Lefort – General Manager of LOXEA by CFAO, “partnering with LOXEA will allow companies to enjoy the inherent benefits of the CFAO network, a trusted and reliable organisation that has been providing best-in-class products and services for over 119 years in Nigeria.”

LOXEA offers a broad range of services from regular operating leases to comprehensive fleet management and car-sharing through a web portal and mobile applications through its three pillars; LOXEA Lease, LOXEA Connect, and LOXEA Ride.

LOXEA Lease provides rental of vehicles or equipment from 36 to 48 months with full maintenance according to the manufacturer’s prescription, full comprehensive insurance, replacement vehicle (after 48 hours), and geolocation. The fleet management solution provides a fleet manager, Drivers 24/7, fuel card management, fleet analytics, and fleet mobility optimisation.

Thanks to the LOXEA Connect application, customers can have access to real-time monitoring of fleet usage and behaviour.

Lefort added: “Our goal is to establish and maintain long-term business relationships by adding value to businesses who outsource their vehicle management by ensuring their fleet is operational 24/7.

 

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a small all-electric hatchback that’s one of the most affordable and popular electric cars on the road. For this year, Chevrolet has made various improvements that boost the car’s appeal further.

On the docket are more comfortable front seats, a redesigned cabin and updated styling that, to our eyes, looks less dorky than it did before. A suite of safety features is now standard, including forward collision warning and lane keeping assist. On the options list are blind-spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera and — finally — adaptive cruise control. Unfortunately, GM’s Super Cruise system, which is a driver assist system that provides hands-free driving on select highways, is not available on the Bolt hatchback, but it is optional on the new Chevrolet Bolt EUV crossover.

The Bolt EV uses the same powertrain as before that provides an EPA-estimated 259 miles of range on a full charge.  It is found  to even overperforms a little, making it 278 miles in our real-world testing. Overall, this is a healthy amount of range for an EV in this price range. Chevy has also enhanced the 2022 Bolt so it can recharge more quickly on 240-volt power, but one’ll likely have to install a special charging station to take full advantage of it at home.

Overall, we like the updated 2022 Chevrolet Bolt. However, the Bolt’s recent battery recall might give you pause as a long-term reliability concern and could make it hard to find a Bolt for sale early in the model year. Meanwhile, there are more appealing EVs than ever before, including the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Kona EV,  Kia Niro EV, Tesla Model 3 and Volkswagen ID.4.

The Bolt scooted from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds in our testing, which is reasonably quick for an EV in this price range. Drivers can merge onto freeways with ease or overtake when you need it. The Bolt’s brakes are consistent and easy to control if you prefer to not use the single-pedal mode to do most of your slowing from regenerative braking. The latter requires less effort and improves range. There’s even an additional steering-wheel regen braking paddle for those who want to maximize energy recuperation.

The Bolt responds smoothly to steering inputs without feeling darty. The steering feel and feedback are good, and the car stays straight ahead on the highway without demanding driver attention. When the road begins to curve, the Bolt feels nimble and sure-footed.

 

Comfort

The front seats now have adequate cushioning compared to those in previous model years. They’re no longer a literal pain in our backsides on long road trips, though we still think they could use a little more thigh bolstering. The Bolt’s ride quality, however, is still overly busy and choppy because the suspension struggles to absorb pavement cracks and sharp-edged potholes.

When the pavement is smooth, so is the Bolt. The updated climate controls are straightforward and have redundant functions on the touchscreen and below the screen with physical buttons. The system reacts quickly, and the 2LT trim comes standard with heated front seats and steering wheel. We also like the Bolt’s quiet cabin. Wind noise is not an issue.

 

Interior

The controls are thoughtfully arranged, with a handy volume knob and tune buttons to the left of the touchscreen. The transmission controls, which are now a row of buttons instead of the previous Bolt’s conventional shift lever, take a quick moment to get used to. The digital instrument panel is configurable to show key information such as battery information, driver efficiency and power output. We found it simple to settle in behind the wheel thanks to a height-adjustable driver’s seat and a generous telescoping steering wheel.

All of the doors open wide, and the roofline is tall all the way to the rear hatch. The Bolt feels much larger inside than one might expect with the exception of its width. The cabin is a bit narrow, but there’s plenty of head- and legroom. Peek-a-boo windows help you see past the front roof pillars, and an available 360-degree camera system aids visibility.

 

Technology

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is standard. These smartphone integration systems are all you get for in-car navigation because an integrated navigation system isn’t offered. The touchscreen is big and responsive. Two front USB ports (one regular and one USB-C) come standard, and you get additional ports for the rear passengers when jumping up to the 2LT trim.

Forward collision mitigation and lane keeping assist come standard on the Bolt, and you get blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera system with the 2LT. These driver aids generally work well, though we found the adaptive cruise control (optional for the 2LT) brakes a little too late for comfort when using the closest distance setting.

 

Storage

Considering its size, the Bolt has a good amount of space inside for small items. The front door pockets, center console and glovebox are adequate. There’s also a plus-sized-phone cubbie with a wireless charger in front of the transmission gear selector and an open space for a handbag or something of similar size under the center console.

At 16.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, the cargo area is smaller than the competition. But it’s still useful and it also has a floor panel that provides hidden storage or that can be removed to carry bulkier items. The Bolt also works out pretty well for family taxi duty. The car seat anchors for child safety seats are easy to locate, and there are top tethers on all three rear seat positions. The rear doors open wide enough to fit bulky rear-facing seats inside.

 

Range and Efficiency

The Bolt can travel 259 miles on a single charge, making it one of the better ranges in the segment for the cost. It’s also estimated to return 100 miles for every 28 kWh of electricity used. In Edmunds’ real-world EV range testing, the Bolt was able to travel 278 miles on a single charge at a slightly more efficient 25.7 kWh per 100 miles. While that’s a good result, the Hyundai Kona Electric, which received a similar range and efficiency rating from the EPA, outperformed its estimates a bit more, traveling more than 300 miles.

The Bolt comes with an upgraded dual-level charge cord, which allows owners to swap between Level 1 (120-volt) and Level 2 (240-volt) charging. However, to make full use of the new Bolt’s more powerful 11-kW onboard charger (previously it was 7.7 kW), one’ll need dedicated wall charging hardware since the included cord maxes out at 7.2 kW.

 

Volkswagen (VW) has released teaser images of its forthcoming entry-level EV supermini. After revealing the concept for a smaller vehicle to its ID family of electric cars last year, the brand has now shown sketches of the possible production model’s styling. Speculated to be named Volkswagen ID.1 and have a  price tag of 20,000 euros (£17,000), the newcomer was originally slated to arrive later this year, but is now likely to arrive in 2025. If the name ID.1 is used, then it’s possible that it will be joined by an ID.2 later, both of which would sit below the Golf-sised ID.3 in the range.

The new models will be constructed in Spain alongside the other small electric cars from Cupra, Skoda and Volkswagen, which will all be rivals for the Vauxhall Corsa-e and Peugeot e-208. Volkswagen has previously announced that it will also construct a large battery factory in the country, which is expected to be opened in 2026.

Volkswagen has previously claimed that a future ‘ID. Life’ or ID.1 model would have 231bhp and could accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds. Volkswagen says the 57kWh battery will deliver a range of 248 miles and the ability to add up to 100 miles of range in a 10 minute charge.

Volkswagen Chief Executive Officer Ralf Brandstatter previously described the ID. Life as a “VW for a younger generation” and the car lives up to this billing in a number of ways. Key among these is the use of sustainable materials such as the clear paintwork finish that’s made from wood chips with an organic hardener and the tyres made from bio-oil, natural rubber and rice husks.

The design features an air filled bonnet and roof made from recycled plastic bottles which are attached to the car via zips. This means a section of the roof can be removed to give the car an open top.

A full breakdown of details for the future ID.1 is yet to be confirmed but there have been previous claims of a Polo-sized vehicle to join the electric line-up. This would feature a boot of similar size to that in a Fiat Panda, but with additional storage beneath the boot floor of up to 108 litres. A further 68 litres of storage space is also possible under the bonnet.

In the cabin there is a wood dashboard with a nine-inch screen and eco-velour fabric on the two bench seats and doors. The door pockets feature wireless charging for smartphones and the door mirrors are replaced by side cameras. When the ID. Life is parked there is a retractable projection screen that can be used for movies and video games.

The 2022 Toyota Avalon is one of the only vehicles left in the large sedan class. The Chevy Impala and Ford Taurus are long gone, so the segment now consists of just three vehicles: the Avalon and the Dodge Charger/Chrysler 300 twins. The Avalon is the best of the bunch. It offers a smooth ride, comfortable seats and a richly appointed interior. Unfortunately, Toyota has confirmed that 2022 is the Avalon’s last year of production. Toyota has also made changes to available equipment by eliminating the optional all-wheel-drive system and discontinuing the TRD trim level.

The Avalon is now in this generation’s fourth model year, and there haven’t been many complaints about this well-rounded big sedan.

The Toyota Avalon is highly recommended for a large sedan.

The Avalon delivers auto lovers’ choice of a large, comfortable, cruising sedan, but it is also surprisingly enjoyable to drive. There’s good power, and it has an available adaptive suspension system that is responsive on twisty roads. It’s also a good value because of its high fuel economy and luxurious surroundings, which rival those of its Lexus ES cousin for a lot less money.

With a potent 301-horsepower V6 mated to a smooth-shifting transmission, the Avalon has good power to get up and go. It is also pleasant to use in most scenarios, from long road trips and afternoon cruises to day-to-day commutes and short errands around town. Braking is consistent and never grabby, which lends to its comfort in daily use.

The Avalon is surprising in its athleticism — with shockingly enjoyable handling and drivability. While not a sport sedan, this cruiser can handle twisty roads with relative ease for a vehicle of its size. Think about a mobile defensive end or tackle in football as opposed to an athletic linebacker.

Comfort is a strength for the Avalon and is probably the primary reason one would consider such a large sedan. All seating positions give you ample cushioning and support for long drives or short cruises. The leather upholstery is very soft and gives the sensation that the Avalon is more upscale than its price suggests.

The ride is cushioned and makes drivers feel shielded from harsh roads. The cabin is also really cozy due to the climate control’s quick heating and cooling. While there is no rattling or shaking inside the cabin, road noise is somewhat present at all times.

The Avalon’s cabin is a decent place to be. It is roomy and user-friendly. There are even redundant key functions located on the steering wheel. Legroom is abundant, the driving position is superb due to its multitude and depth of adjustments, and visibility is great up front and modest to the sides and over the shoulder.

As far as controls go, there are two minor issues: The radio tuning knob can be a reach for some, and a couple of functions, such as turning on the camera view, are tucked away. While legroom is a strength, headroom can feel a little compromised for taller people — especially in the rear due to the sloping roofline. Lastly, the low-resolution rearview camera and display could use an upgrade.

Toyota’s Entune system and its 9-inch touchscreen are surprisingly good. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration systems are supported. The display is bright and responds well to inputs, but Toyota tends to lock out more functions while you’re driving than other carmakers.

There are two USB ports up front and two in back. The front console also houses a wireless charging pad. The car’s built-in voice controls are hit-or-miss — it’s better at understanding radio commands than navigation commands.

While cargo capacity is average on paper, the Avalon works out to be more convenient compared to some others due to the wide trunk opening, broad floor and convenient loading height. You might be disappointed if you’re the type who folds the rear seats to expand the space because there’s a sizable step up to the folded seats.

Inside, there are numerous small cubbies, plenty of cup-holders, and a center console that’s sizable and surprisingly deep. The door pockets are average, but there are enough other options that it’s not a concern. The Avalon really shines when it comes to fitting child safety seats. The car seat anchors are easy to access, and the huge rear bench has space enough for just about any type of seat.

The Avalon is rated at 25 combined mpg (22 city/31 highway), which is excellent for this class of car. It’s not outstanding like the hybrid variant, but it’s still really good. During our mixed-driving 115-mile evaluation route, we were able to observe 26 mpg, which slightly beat the combined EPA score.

The Avalon offers a good deal of quality and refinement. It feels close enough to the Lexus ES in this regard that someone looking for a large sedan might want to consider the Avalon because it costs thousands less. Beyond the great deal, you also get high gas mileage, a good roadside assistance programme, and free scheduled maintenance for the first two years.

The Avalon is a low-key performer. The exterior, aside from the huge brace-face grille, is nondescript, while the interior delivers a composed, civil and sophisticated style. None of this is bad, but it sets you up to be surprised by its hidden athleticism. In the context of a big family sedan, it’s fun to drive due to its surprising handling capabilities and strong V6 engine.

The 2022 Toyota Avalon is available in three trim levels: XLE, Touring and Limited. All trims come standard with front-wheel drive and a 3.5-liter V6 engine (301 horsepower, 267 lb-ft of torque) mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid version is also available and is reviewed separately.

Nigeria’s online marketplace Jiji, which acquired Cars45, the online car auction service, has announced a change of the brand’s name to Jiji Cars.

Cars45 was recently acquired by Jij to strengthen the latter’s position in the market.

Jiji Cars Chief Operating Officer (COO), Maxim Makarchuk, said: “Since launching in 2014, Jiji has connected buyers to sellers in Nigeria and has helped facilitate the exchange of goods and services with ease and convenience.

“In eight years, Jiji has grown into a team of over 1000 people with more than12 million unique monthly visits, more than four million active ads with a combined value worth $10 billion.

“Combining Jiji’s leading position with the Cars45 model brings to the market a new incredible story called Jiji Cars.”

“As a result, every car seller can get the best price and immediate payment for his car on the same day he decided to sell it through a hassle-free and trusted selling process with Jiji Cars. On the other hand, every car buyer can use an inspection report based on 200+ factors to get a verified car to meet his expectations,” he stated.

The Chief Executive Officer of Jiji, Anton Volianski, said: “We have observed that people come on the platform looking to buy cars. They seek to avoid the high transactional costs from traditional car dealers and want fast and efficient transactions. Most times, they also want to meet one-on-one with the car sellers.

“With Jiji Cars, we handle car sales faster and more efficiently. We also deliver value for our buyers and sellers through our digitized processes, while working to become the recognised market leader.’’

Also, Yuliy Shenfeld, said: “Jiji Cars provides value and efficiency to customers. Sellers can sell their cars faster and get paid immediately, same day leveraging millions of buyers on the Jiji platform. “Our processes are digitised to make buying and selling of cars fast, safe and easy for our customers. Buyers have access to thousands of verified cars on the platform, which have undergone inspection by 200+ parameters to confirm their true state.

“We also have in-built processes to protect buyers’ interests while ensuring that the sellers get commensurate value for their merchandise immediately. At Jiji Cars, there’s room for fair and easy negotiation between buyers and sellers. The platform is a one-stop-shop for all car sales and purchase services.”

Hyundai Nigeria Limited has launched new Santa Fe SUV and Elantra saloon into the market.

Compared with the models they replaced, the two vehicles come with improved styling, comfort, equipment and segment leading safety features.

Addressing reporters at the launch at the weekend at the Hyundai showroom, Victoria Island, Lagos, the company’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Mr. Gaurav Vashisht, described the new Santa Fe as a product of research into making Hyundai vehicles safer and more comfortable for customers.

Unlike its predecessor, the new Santa Fe provides ample sitting for a family of seven and elevated the elegantly styled, high-technology SUV to another level, leading to a significant improvement in collision safety and maximizing vehicle stability on top of larger interior space.

Vashisht said: “Hyundai Santa Fe has made a brilliant start to the new year, gaining wide recognition by top tier global automotive awards, winning top titles in Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award, Large SUV of the Year at 2022 What Car? Award, and United States’ News  Best Car for the Money, affirming the Santa Fe as an innovative choice among large SUVs in combining family convenience with adventurous unrivalled presence on the road.”

Being appraised as the best car for money, the Santa FE has been successful in combining the quality and value measures as a modern day SUV. The Santa Fe, coming to the year with a refreshed design from the exterior and interior, has also gained an array of novelty features and an enhanced dynamic driving experience, providing the balance of optimal performance and comfort, giving the driver the choice of driving modes that suite every road or driving situation, ensuring an unparalleled ride experience for both the driver of the different family members.

“This wide recognition of Hyundai’s Santa FE in the eyes of automotive experts and enthusiasts is a strong indication of the added value that the SUV is bringing to the market, having proven for many years now to be Hyundai’s potent class-leading contender in the large SUV segment across the world,” Vashisht said.

The Fourth-generation Santa FE, which came with a bold new design, and of the bouquet of “Smart Sense” safety features, boasts a strong stance with an overall Length of (mm)4,785 mm, and a Width of (mm)1,900 mm. The 2022 Santa Fe provides a wide choice of family-oriented features, starting from flexible seat variations. 2nd and 3rd Row Seats and Space, One-Touch Walk-in and Folding, and Smart Power Tailgate.

Santa Fe is among the safest in its class, receiving the maximum Five-Star safety rating from Euro NCAP safety assessment program.

The 7th generation, Hyundai Elantra has undergone significant changes, delivering the most progressive in-vehicle experience in its class.

Longer, wider and more aggressive than the sixth-generation model, the 2022 Elantra boasts a wide range of advanced technologies and features. It marks another step forward for the Elantra brand, which first hit the roads 30 years ago.

Bringing the Elantra to life is the premium finishing to both the exterior and interior, reflected through Hyundai’s ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design identity.The Elantra is also equipped with an elaborative design chassis, allowing the driver to experience the sporty feel of the design.

With these new improvements, the Elantra becomes the most compact sedan that the next generation wants to drive, providing better mobility experience than before.

The Elantra stands out on the roads with its bold style. At the front, the combination of a wide cascade grille, connected to the headlamps and a bold bumper provides a more robust front look.

The parametric-pattern cascade grille across the front mask creates a futuristic look, while the sharp edge shaped bumper bottom moulding and air curtain intakes are also core features.

The side of the Elantra is accentuated with its rich volume and sensual lines. The new model boasts of core features including a longer hood, elegant roofline, and side character-line with sharp edges, which showcases a sporty look.

In addition, the trimmed parametric jewel surfaces bring out a three-dimensional style. While the two outside wing mirrors match with the sharp design elements of the vehicle.

The sporty effect is also reflected more prominently on the alloy wheel designs, which come in 16 and 17inch alloy wheels.

Just like the front and side, the Elantra has been enhanced at the rear with the horizontal line-based rear design, showcasing a stable stance and futuristic technology.

As well as parametric detail finishing to the LED rear combination lamps, the black deck garnish at the bottom of the glass creates a coupe-like style, while the three-dimensional bumper garnish enhances its presence on the road. Completing the finished look is the sleek-edge finishing of the trunk lid, providing maximum sophistication and sensual appeal.

The quality of the exterior is replicated inside with the increase in size, providing more space, comfort and practicality for passengers.

The Smartstream G2.0 MPI – 6-speed automatic   engine, which has a maximum power of 159ps/6,200rpm and a maximum torque of 19.5kg.m/4,500rpm, is an improved fuel-efficient engine. The Gamma 1.6 MPI (127.5ps/6,300rpm and 15. 77kg.m/4,850rpm) is also available, offering a smoother performance.

With Hyundai continuing to focus on safety innovation, the Elantra is equipped with a wide range of features that aim to protect passengers.

Occupant protection is enhanced by Elantra’s very rigid structure that absorbs sound and vibration. The six standard airbags: front, front side and side curtain and the soft and comfortable braking system also provide additional safety.

Drivers and passengers can also take advantage of new technology safety features, including a Rear Occupant Alert (ROA) that detects and reminds the driver to check the rear seat doors. It is also equipped with a wireless smartphone charger, helping prevent overheating and offering faster charging.

“In the last three decades, the Elantra has continued to evolve over its generations with each of the six editions representing a significant step forward in design, style and technology,” Vashisht recalled, adding, “The seventh generation of the Elantra is no different and one that raises the bar in its segment.

“From top to bottom, the Elantra has been redesigned, making it more stylish and sophisticated than before. We look forward to customers experiencing these unparalleled driving experiences across the Middle East and Africa region in what is one of Hyundai’s most loved models.”

Customers can choose from nine colour exterior choices – Phantom Black, Polar White, Fluid Metal, Electric Shadow, Fiery Red, Lava Orange, Intense Blue, Cyber Grey and Amazon Grey.

Like other Hyundai models sold and still on sale in Nigeria,” Vashisht Stressed, “the two newly launched Santa Fe and Elantra are assembled in Nigeria by Nigerians”.

“Like other models on sale across the country, the two newly launched SUV and Sedan also benefit from the over 30 years of nationwide aftersales network facilities of Stallion Group. And because they are locally assembled, they are vehicles you can drive with peace of mind in the country, they are tropicalised,” Vashisht added.