TOP 12 BEST BUYS 2022

Gareth Dean

Ray_Leathern

01 Budget car (<R190 000)

02 Small car

03 Small SUV/crossover

04 Midsize car

05 Midsize SUV/crossover

06 Premium midsize car

07 Premium midsize SUV/crossover

08 Large SUV/crossover

09 Luxury car

10. Luxury SUV/crossover

11 Performance car

12 Double-cab bakkie

JUDGING CRITERIA

Only vehicles that the majority of the CAR editorial team have driven

We factor in the findings of road tests and driving impressions published up until this April 2022 issue. Don’t see your favourite – such as the new Polo or Peugeot 2008 – in the running? The majority of the CAR team would not have experienced it at the time this issue went to print.

Ranges, not individual models

Except in the Budget and Performance car segments, we consider an entire range, not one specific model. While it may appear odd to have an Audi A3 andToyota Corolla Quest gunning for the same award, remember, we measure cars against their direct rivals in their classes and rule on their relative levels of excellence within a broader category that considers both size and price.

We consider all the facets

We look at packaging, personality, performance and, most importantly – in the value-led post-COVID-19 world – price.

The argument… and then the vote

We set aside a day for the team to debate and arm wrestle over the contestants. Then we draw up a list of six finalists per award and vote. Here are our winners for 2022…

01 BUDGET CAR <R190

HYUNDAI ATOS 1,1 MOTION

3rd WIN

Price: R180 900

Racking up its third consecutive win in this category, shifting an impressive 4 459 units last year in trying economic circumstances, the Atos enjoyed 114% volume growth in the budget-supermini segment versus 2020. It once again highlights that there are budget-oriented cars with solid build quality and upmarket comfort and convenience items. When we tested the 1,1 Motion back in February 2020, we praised it for its zippy handling and robust engine. This is still the class act in a segment teeming with offerings; although less than before with the Peugeot 108 Active breaking out of the budget cap, retailing for R219 900.

READERS' CHOICE

Suzuki Swift 1,2 GA 48%

(Hyundai Atos: 13%)

THE EXCELLENT VEHICLES THE ATOS HAD TO BEAT

BEST NEWCOMER It may not have taken outright victory, but the Toyota Agya 1,0 is our favourite new car in the segment

Suzuki S-Presso 1,0 GL

R157 900

The pseudo-crossover may not be to everyone’s taste but you can’t go wrong with the cheap and cheerful Suzi.

Suzuki Swift 1,2 GA