Great Unknowns Launches:

Mini Countryman, VW Amarok 3.0, Renault Clio Gt-line Drives: Mazda BT-50, Mitsubishi Triton

I have an irrational love for 4x4s that I have passed on to my immediate family and so bringing home a bakkie to test is a special occasion, especially if we have it for a long weekend. That said: when the conclusion is that a bakkie is underwhelming, it really is.

For R555 700 in 2017, you’d expect more than a modified version of Ford’s original SYNC infotainment system and a functional interior. To be fair to Mazda, the seats are wrapped in leather. But still, competing products from Toyota, Nissan, Ford and even the new Mitsubishi Triton and Fiat Fullback have surpassed it in terms of occupant and driver comfort.

The 3,2-litre diesel engine it shares with the top tier of Ford’s Ranger and Everest product lines even feels a bit dulled in this package, pointing to an overall lack in refinement over the previous BT-50 which could be seen as merely a poor cousin to its blue oval relatives. This new car seems to be from a different family entirely, much like Gareth and De Wet Barry (one is still an English Premier League football player and the other achieved relative success playing rugby for South Africa).

A watercooler discussion with a colleague from our sister magazine CAR reveals some concern around the automatic transmission and our test vehicle was a bit harsh in ride quality (disclosure: I didn’t check the tyre pressures, which may have resolved this).

On the positive side, the facelifted BT-50 does deliver the earthmoving might of the 3,2-litre Duratorq/powerstroke (Powerstroke achieves USA emissions targets) diesel engine, mated to a 4x4 system and automatic transmission at a very reasonable price. The five- cyclinder mill with its forged con-rods, cast iron crank and variable flow oil pump is as beastly as ever, with 147 kw available at 3 000 r/min.

When considered in the context of its premium powertrain (which does actually power a couple of Vivarail trains in the UK) you can excuse the relatively spartan approach to occupant conveniences. I can even go as far as forgiving the company for excluding a loadbox cover on the test unit. But I can’t put this in the same category as the current class leaders. South Africans buy double cab bakkies as premium family cars. Many of us are well aware of the practical trade-offs, but still manage to extract value. I can’t see this as the very model of the family car. But if you make full use of that 3,2 engine, then this is the most sensible purchase.

1. RENAULT CLIO GT- LINE

As rivals step up their competitive offerings in the local market, Renault’s subcompact Clio perhaps has ground to make up to reinforce the original’s compelling mix of features and drivability. The fourth-generation Clio Gt-line goes some way towards addressing that, boasting refreshed exterior and interior styling, combined with innovative technology.

Among the more notable styling and design changes applied to the Clio range as a whole are C-shaped signature lighting and Pure Vision LED headlights on flagship models. The Gt-line exterior can be distinguished visually from the rest of the new Clio range by its 17-inch alloy wheels and unique body kit. The cabin features detailing that plays up the Renault Sport influence, as well as sports front seats with extra side support. Infotainment duties are taken care of by an integrated 7-inch Touchscreen Medianav display.

The big news for performance fans is the Rs-influenced 1.2 turbo engine. With outputs of 88 kw and 205 N.m, it is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, a first for the Clio range. Performance statistics, according to Renault, are 0-100 km/h in 9 seconds, a top speed of 199 km/h, fuel consumption of 5,3litres/ 100 km and CO2 emissions of 118 g/km.

On the practical side, besides a 5-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty and 6-year anti- corrosion warranty, the Clio range has a standard 3- year/ 45 000 km service plan. Price: R264 900.

2. MINI COUNTRYMAN

The rolling hills and sweeping curves of the Kwazulu-natal midlands were a perfect setting for showing off Mini’s biggest model yet, with its brisk kilometre-eating ability, firm but not unyielding ride and sharp and dynamic handling.

Versatility was the original Countryman’s strong suit. The new model been thoroughly redeveloped. It’s a little wider and substantially longer than its predecessor and as a result is a whole lot less “mini”, with five full seats and bigger doors. There’s more luggage space, too.

On the inside, more premium finishes have been used and a significant interior addition is a central instrument with touchscreen function. From the driver’s seat it’s pure Mini, but externally it retains the crossover look, with higher ground clearance and a raised seating position. There have been subtle evolutions of the exterior styling, from the model-specific asymmetric LED headlights with peripheral daytime driving light ring flanking the distinctive hexagonal grille to the upright rear lights and roof rails now in satin-finished aluminium are combined with silvercoloured side sill tops, lending greater visual emphasis to the car’s height.

For the market launch there are two petrol engines and one diesel, with outputs ranging from 100 kw to 110 kw, with all- wheel-drive John Cooper Works to follow. The range also includes the first ever Mini with plug-in hybrid drive, which will be available here in 2018. Price: from R422 000

3. VW AMAROK 3,0 V6 TDI

This should silence the critics. Since the Amarok’s launch here seven years ago, its two-litre engine has been subject to searching discussion around the braai. Never mind the power and torque outputs, which in the case of the 132 kw biturbo version, were substantial. Still, this didn’t put off buyers.

To the Amarok’s superb refinement and high-tech features, the new three-litre V6 (165 kw and 550 N.m) adds prodigious speed off the line, a healthy overtaking kick and a pleasing V6 growl. Plus, it’s the only six- cylinder diesel engine in the segment. Trends show that premium double cab and SUV buyers are increasingly opting for automatics, so standard gearbox on the V6 is an eight-speed automatic.

Quoted performance figures for V6 versions include 0 to 100 km/h in 8,0 seconds and a top speed of 193 km/h. Running gear remains as before: 4x2 or 4x4 (full-time in automatic models).

Besides a comprehensive facelift inside and out, there’s a new touchscreen infotainment system and extra safety and technology elements. The list of standard safety equipment includes four airbags, Electronic Stabilisation Programme and Automatic Post- Collision Braking. Superb ride, bracing performance and an unmatched high-tech package are sure to entice buyers looking for SUV comfort and features with pick-up practicality. Price: from R487 700 (2.0) and R665 700 (3.0).