From the editor
The sun shone brighter on the day the rst-generation Toyota 86 was revealed. As an attainable 2+2 rearwheel-drive sportscar, it soon became a success. Appealing to regular drivers and enthusiasts – including track-day goers, modi ers and hillclimbers alike – the 86 offered an engaging and usable platform at a reasonable price. Thankfully, the new model featured in this issue, the rebranded GR86, is following the same recipe while addressing some of its previous shortcomings, thanks to a new engine of larger displacement and, importantly, more torque. At the same time, Toyota has unleashed a car we thought we’d never see again, a Supra with a six-speed manual transmission, codenamed A91-MT. This model and the GR86 are the types of vehicles we nd exciting in the current automotive environment and soon hope to experience on some of our favourite roads.
On the following pages, we drive a diverse range of new metal. Locally, Volkswagen’s Taigo has launched as a new contender in the growing compact-crossover segment. Slotting in between the T-cross and T-roc, it’s a stylish niche offering and should appeal to those looking to stand out. Mahindra has taken a bold step and unveiled its allnew ladder-frame SUV, the Scorpio-n. A vehicle that demonstrates a new direction for the brand, it was made available for a brief stint along with the new XUV700. The highly anticipated Jeep Gladiator bakkie has landed, too, a welcome addition for serious adventure enthusiasts. We also get behind the wheel of the new Volkswagen Caddy. As earlier fans of this MPV, it’s now based on the MQB platform and features modern tech and a fresh design.
UK contributor Mark Smyth reports back after visiting Spain to experience Mclaren’s Artura on road and track. The hybridised supercar uses a smaller V6 engine, replacing the V8 from its predecessor, while not compromising on performance. This trend of downsizing is analysed in-depth on page 88. If you have a speci c topic you’d like our technical adviser to cover or have any related questions, feel free to email us. Enjoy the issue.