By Prashirwin Naidu
We all have something that sparks joyful memories, and a car is one of those things. The wheels we drive are part of every journey, from start to finish. And no, I’m not just referring to a trip. Given today’s realities, what premium options can you get for under R750k? From sports cars to SUVs, let’s take a look.
Mazda MX-5 RF from R532 800
The Mazda MX-5 RF (Sports Car) is stylish and compact, though I prefer the soft-
top, which you can buy used for much less. This classic roadster combines style with a retractable hardtop for an open-air experience. The 2.0L automatic comes with LED headlights, adaptive front lighting, a Bose sound system, navigation, a leather-trimmed interior and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. It also includes a 3- year unlimited-kilometre warranty, service plan, and roadside assistance. As for the driving experience, I wish I’d tried it in 2016, but my short legs couldn’t reach the pedals! I imagine it to be fun and lightweight, boosting its agility and nimbleness. Its rear-wheel drive can also be paired with a six-speed manual. Claimed fuel consumption is 7.5–8.0 L/100 km.
Toyota Fortuner from R679 100
The Fortuner is a household name, as reliable as the sunrise. Its popularity in South
Africa is due to Toyota’s renowned reliability and a reputation built over 40 years.
That said, the Fortuner does come with its risks, so proceed with caution. It has a
muscular stance, a chrome grille, and LED lighting — subtle yet striking. Inside, it comfortably seats seven with leather upholstery and wood trim. The 8-inch touchscreen includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Advanced safety features
include blind-spot monitoring and lane departure alert. Under the hood, it has a 2.8L turbo diesel engine with full 4×4 capabilities. Claimed fuel consumption is 7.6–8.0 L/100 km.
