Dear Mabs

I am in the market for a car to use for myself and my family’s needs. I am looking for a reliable demo or a good second car. My choices are between Toyota Urban Cruiser, Suzuki Vitara Breeza, and the Mazda CX3. 

Mabs Answers:

Congratulations, shopping for a new car, even a second-hand (used), in this tough financial climate is commendable. I can tell that you have been following this advice page and have been doing your homework. It is important to first evaluate yours and family’s needs in a car and then your budget before you set your sights on the car you would like. That exercise makes the process less overwhelming. 

Let me quickly explain the difference between a demo and a used car. A demo

car is a new car that a dealership has used for promotions and other uses. When it reaches a certain milleage, generally under 20,000 km, they put it back on the floor for sale at a discounted price. However, a previously owned car or ‘used’ makes its way back to the market after the owner has decided to dispose of it owing to numerous reasons that might not be declared. 

Back to your choices. The Toyota Urban Cruiser and Suzuki Vitara Breeza are practically the same car mechanically. In fact, they have been dubbed the twins in the motoring industry owing to the fact that the two Japanese manufacturers entered into a collaboration to build the car on the same platform. They also come equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system that enables both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and rear park distance control. The entry-level Breeza comes with a reverse camera as standard while the Urban Cruiser comes with a keyless entry and start system with push-button start.  However since you are not looking to buy new, these differences might not matter much to you. 

The Mazda CX3 is considered a premium car and comes packed with safety and convenience features as standard for your absolute comfort. Granted, it is much cuter – you cannot fault Mazda’s design. However, the entry price point is much heftier compared to the ‘twins’. 

Fortunately, all 3 brands are sought after and do not lose their value even in the previously owned market. With that in mind, you should be looking at a budget of around R350 000 and R500 000 plus, for the more expensive CX3. 

All the very best and please share with us once you have made your choice. 

Please send your queries to Mabs on email to info@xploreza.co.za or inbox us or slide into our DMs on our social media platforms.