Michael's take on the local industry and its products

My name is Michael and I am the proud owner of the online vehicle website Changecars www.changecars.co.za.

What sets Changecars apart is that we only allow the country’s top dealerships to advertise on the site. That means that the chances of being scammed are zero.

We do not allow private sellers, or the shady JHB central crowd to entice you with the proverbial "it’s too good to be true"…simply because it’s never true!

Click on our 'Our Dealers' tab to see the quality dealerships we are proud to work with. If you get a quote for a brand new vehicle from a dealership not on the site, make use of our Beat-My-Quote feature and it is my personal commitment, that we will endeavor to get you a better deal and better service.

I am also proudly the host of the TV show All Things Motoring on DSTV channel 189 and www.allthingsmotoring.co.za and I truly enjoy interacting with the public.

If you have a motoring event or interesting story, contact us on az.oc.gnirotomsgnihtlla@leahcim or 083 377 5432 to see why I love what I do.

We're almost there, through this article, you will be able to have a quick reference of the brand you love, or one you are possibly considering to buy. If you are wary of a specific brand, this article will guide you.

Please note, the opinions expressed in this article are my own, built up through my 32 years in the automotive industry. If you have any question you want answered, click here to Ask Mikey.

Now that we have the formalities out of the way, here we go!

Alfa Romeo

Positives: There are many! You will always stand out and people will engage you on the reason why you chose an Alfa. Alfa's are very low theft risk, despite being drop-dead gorgeous!

Negatives: Historic perceptions that will always be indelibly etched in people’s memories. At the forefront of these challenges are electrical issues!

Brand cachet: Not great and I believe it is unfortunate, as Alfa is unique. It’s not competing with Mercedes or BMW or even Volkswagen. It is more of a Peugeot and Volvo competitor. It is streets ahead of the former and marginally behind the latter.

Dealer network: Well represented in Gauteng, Western Cape and KZN with 15 dealerships countrywide.

Alternatives: The saying goes 'you buy an Alfa with your heart, not your head'. I say I have never heard of a 'head attack'.

Legacy: Superb, extending back many decades. Alfa has a proud history in motor racing and has made the most exceptional sports cars like the GTV and Spider.

My favourite thing: The badge, the styling and the engines.

My least favourite thing: Quality of the fit and finish, and parts availability.

Tip for the brand: Get it across to the public that you are serious about customer service and wish to attract buyers who are hesitant to consider this exciting brand.

Tip for buyers: Look at all the options in this price range, and if you are still smitten by the Alfa charm, go for it… second-hand options offer the best value.

Would I buy it? Not as a first choice, but definitely a consideration. I personally own a 1999 GTV and 2007 Alfa Spider Q4.

Mike Score: 7/10

Audi

Positives: 'Vorsprung Durch Technik' remains true. Audi is an exceptional brand that deserves its place among The Big Three. Cars are good looking, superb quality and are all-round top notch.

Negatives: Zero legacy in SA and that holds the brand back. No one aspires to any Audi that pre-dates 1996. With its competitors, it’s the exact opposite. Audi has by far the lowest dealer network when compared to BMW and Mercedes. If you don’t live in a major centre, an Audi cannot be on your shopping list. The brand's resale value is perceived to be lower than BMW or Mercedes.

Brand cachet: Very strong albeit, not on the same level as BMW or Mercedes and that sadly will not change for a myriad of reasons.

Dealer network: Limited when compared to BMW and Mercedes, affecting the desirability of the brand in the second-hand market.

Alternatives: BMW, Mercedes and lately, Volvo.

Legacy: Very strong worldwide. Globally, Audi is on the level of BMW and Mercedes. In South Africa, a very poor third and that will not change positively in the future.

My favourite thing: The understated excellence and their incredible performance models from the RS division. RS4/RS6 and R8 are literally in a league of their own.

My least favourite thing: That the brand locally has no concept of why an excellent product is under-performing. Hearing every journalist put an exceptional product third, when compared to its competitors, reinforces that.

Tip for the brand: Change direction completely, as the brand is currently third in the premium pecking order, soon to be fourth, all due to the brand's marketing strategy.

Tip for buyers: Shop around and look at BMW, Mercedes and Volvo before you put pen to paper.

Would I buy it? Yes, I am the proud owner of an Audi R8 V10 original and I consider this the best vehicle ever built… okay I am biased on this one.

Mike Score: 8.5/10

BAIC

Positives: All the products are good looking and well priced. The team behind BAIC are exceptional and it is a product I believe in for the future.

Negatives: Quality of the fit and finish is not on the level of their competitors. BAIC are aware of it and I believe in years to come, this will be addressed.

Brand cachet: New to the market.

Dealer network: Amazing considering the brand is new in SA. No concerns here.

Alternatives: Chery, Haval, Honda, Hyunda, Kia and Nissan.

Legacy: Still new to the market.

My favourite thing: Styling.

My least favourite thing: Interior quality.

Tip for the brand: Work on the quality of the fit and finish, keep your pricing keen, and continue to develop the dealer network.

Tip for buyers: Give this brand a chance.

Would I buy it? Yes.

Mike Score: 7/10

BMW

Positives: One could write a book on this incredible brand. 'Sheer Driving Pleasure' are the buzzwords, and millions around the world will agree. Incredible engines, incredible styling and tech that is exceptional.

Negatives: Definitely a higher theft risk than Audi, as an example. You will fit in as opposed to stand out, as BMW is the 'go to' on so many models.

Brand cachet: If it was any higher, it would be on a different planet.

Dealer network: Superb, wherever you are in SA you, will be able to service your BMW. This is a huge reason why BMW outsells Audi almost three to one.

Alternatives: Mercedes, Porsche and Audi. When you consider that BMW buyers have Porsche as an option, you know your brand is exceptional.

Legacy: Unlike Audi in SA, BMW has an incredible legacy and people resonate with that. From the 2002 to 3.0CSL, the 530/535i, 325iS and M3/M5. BMW deserves their place in the sales charts.

My favourite thing: The way BMW never rests on its laurels. The new design theme is superb and my girlfriend is the ultimate BMW fan.

My least favourite thing: Hearing my girlfriend tell me the R8 is not the ultimate car. As for the brand itself, there is nothing I dislike about BMW!

Tip for the brand: Carry on doing what you are doing. If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it!

Tip for buyers: When buying second hand, take your time as there are plenty of these wonderful machines around. Post 100,000km and out of maintenance plan, be careful, as servicing cost are not cheap.

Would I buy it: Yes in capitals.

Mike Score: 9/10

Chery

Positives: What a success story Chery is. Quality fit and finish, good looking, incredible engine warranty, and just a solid stand out new offering!

Negatives: Not many and for a new product, that is incredible. Fuel consumption is higher than the competition.

Brand cachet: New to the market, but very well received and perceived.

Dealer network: Considering that the brand has only been around since 2021, it is exceptional and growing. Zero concerns here.

Alternatives: BAIC, Haval, Hyundai and Kia. In its own stable is Omoda, which is the ultra-luxury version of Chery. Think Lexus and Toyota.

Legacy: Growing quickly and deservedly so.

My favourite thing: Interior quality.

My least favourite thing: Nothing to fault.

Tip for the brand: Extend the 1 million kilometres warranty beyond the first owner.

Tip for buyers: Consider this fine brand.

Would I buy it? Unhesitatingly yes.

Mike Score: 8/10

Citreon

Positives: Good-looking and different. Low theft risk and the brand stands out for the right reasons.

Negatives: Resale value and ease of selling will be a challenge. In my personal opinion, this needs to be dispelled.

Brand cachet: Not very high and marketing needs to be scolded. Citroen is such a famous French brand globally and deserves better.

Dealer network: Adequate in major city centres, but inadequate outside of.

Alternatives: A lot, this is why sales will always be a challenge.

Legacy: Very good, but Citroen do a shocking job of getting this across. Ask the buying public what they think of Citroen and they will say "are they still around?" in many cases.

My favourite thing: Styling!

My least favourite thing: Underpowered engine on the C3, which is the one vehicle that can turn the brand around.

Tip for the brand: Fit a 1.0l turbo to the C3 and tell your marketing team to call me for a chat!

Tip for buyers: Definitely worth a look, as it's a low theft risk and a funky option.

Would I buy it? Personally no, as there are better options, but I can change my mind in the future.

Mike Score: 6.5/10

Ford

Positives: SA Car Of The Year winner 2023 is as big of a positive as you need. Superb brand and a firm deserved SA fan favourite.

Negatives: Not a lot and deservedly so.

Brand cachet: Brilliant, or not much, depending on who you ask. An incredible following, but many detractors. (Toyota fans, you know the drill).

Dealer network: Superb across all nine provinces.

Alternatives: Toyota, Isuzu and Nissan particularly on the Bakkie front.

Legacy: 'One litre Coke, two litre brandy and a 3.0l Ford', that is a legacy for you. Amazing history in F1, Le Mans and a proud heritage in South Africa.

My favourite thing: The ST models.

My least favourite thing: The ugly badge. Very personal point, but I really hate the badge design. Look at the Alfa badge and you'll see why I say so. Only the Chev badge is worse in the opinion of my contact-lens-wearing eyes.

Tip for the brand: Continue to build on the 'Ford Tough' slogan and work hard to improve dealership service.

Tip for buyers: Look at the best price, year and km combination when buying second hand. Options are plenty, so don’t rush, you can be picky.

Would I buy it? Yes.

Mike Score: 8/10

GWM/Haval

Positives: For a brand that is so new to the market, the sales success is a story for the ages. Well done to a very dedicated sales and marketing team.

Negatives: Very few that I have seen, albeit there have been some niggly issues that dealerships could've handled better.

Brand cachet: Growing and deservedly so. In terms of prestige, GWM/Haval will never win awards, but neither will its competitors.

Dealer network: Superb and growing literally by the month. No concerns here.

Alternatives: Chery, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Toyota. Tough competition, but GWM/Haval is a tough competitor.

Legacy: Historically none, but let's relook this in five to ten years and I am positive it will be strong.

My favourite thing: Keen pricing and quality finishes across the product range.

My least favourite thing: I personally do not love the styling, however it’s not ugly, it's just not my taste.

Tip for the brand: Continue to focus on keen pricing and deal with the odd customer complaints more decisively.

Tip for buyers: Look at this brand for whatever vehicle you are looking at. You will be impressed.

Would I buy it? Yes.

Mike Score: 8/10

Honda

Positives: Very little at the moment. This once incredible brand is totally nondescript in the market and will not change in the future.

Negatives: In terms of quality, zero. In terms of looks, a lot and the challenges are many. The people marketing Honda have a lot to answer for.

Brand cachet: No longer what it used to be. The Honda badge in my eyes was superior to Nissan and on a par with the incredible brand that is Toyota.

Dealer network: Barely adequate and outside of Gauteng, challenging. Compared to Nissan, Mazda, Suzuki and Toyota, its Japanese competitors, it's hopelessly inadequate.

Alternatives: Chery, Haval, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Suzuki and Toyota. In this company, Honda comes last and the sales figures back it up.

Legacy: Incredible and it is for this reason I am saddened by the poor marketing and brand positioning in SA. Civic Type R is the one stand out.

My favourite thing: My memories of my 1991 Honda CRX and Nelson Piquet winning Honda’s first F1 drivers World Championship in 1987.

My least favourite thing: The fact that I am not even bothered to look into their latest products.

Tip for the brand: Look at your incredibly poor marketing strategy in SA. Honda is still a leading seller in Australia and North America. Max Verstappen has won three world championships using Honda engines. You are doing an excellent job of keeping it a secret! How??

Tip for buyers: Look only second hand, as there are some seriously good deals on the market and it’s a sound product.

Would I buy it? Second hand without hesitation, but definitely under no circumstances would I consider it as a new option.

Mike Score: 6/10

Hyundai

Positives: Many and deservedly so. Great warranty and solid brand in every respect.

Negatives: Sorry this is Hyundai… we don’t do negative.

Brand cachet: Reliable, dependable mommies' cars don’t have brand cachet. Hyundai owners know why they buy the superb product.

Dealer network: Excellent, and wherever you are in SA, Hyundai have you covered with just on 100 dealerships.

Alternatives: Kia, Mazda, Nissan, Suzuki and Toyota. When these are your competitors, you are doing something right.

Legacy: Strange one in my view, particularly in SA. Not a great start, but it is not how you start the race, it is how you finish it. Billy Rautenbach and the SKD was the start… motus have taken it to victory.

My favourite thing: Hyundai is a mommy's car, you cannot have a favourite thing on mommies' cars, everything is just perfect! :-)

My least favourite thing: It's not a daddy's car and dads are also important. Jokes aside, this is a great product!

Tip for the brand: Keep doing what you are doing.

Tip for buyers: Great buy new and equally so second hand. Shop wisely, they are great sellers and many on the market.

Would I buy it? Yes from Monday to Friday and yes, yes on Saturdays.

Mike Score: 8.5/10

Isuzu

Positives: Many and in the esteemed company Isuzu plays, that is a compliment in itself. When you are on the same level as Ranger and Hilux, you are doing something right.

Negatives: Limited product range and not first choice for true leisure buyers!

Brand cachet: Isuzu owners choose not to buy a Hilux or Ranger, that is brand cachet right there. :-)

Dealer network: Sufficient, but lagging compared to Ford and Toyota.

Alternatives: Ford, Nissan and Toyota.

Legacy: Very proud and long tradition in SA. The KB name is synonymous with reliability and rightfully so.

My favourite thing: Open disclosure, I am about as fond of double cabs as I am of Eskom. So I am going with that, I do not own one.

My least favourite thing: As per my disclosure, I am not a fan of double cabs, so Isuzu will have to make a R8 rival soon.

Tip for the brand: Increase the base engine size from 1.9L and increase the product range.

Tip for buyers: If looking for a work horse, you won’t go wrong. For leisure, look at Hilux, Navara and Ranger.

Would I buy it? Did I mention I am not a fan of double cabs? Oh, you also have the MU-X? Okay, then the answer is yes.

Mike Score: 7/10

Jaguar

Positives: Stunning looking vehicles with excellent quality finishes and a distinct Land Rover resemblance.

Negatives: The fact that the Land Rover relationship is what makes Jaguar relevant is telling.

Brand cachet: Interesting one. Very good, but far lower than it ought to be.

Dealer network: Decent and more than sufficient for a niche brand. If you are a fan in Kuruman you will have a challenge!

Alternatives: Landrover, Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Volvo are who the big cat has to contend with.

Legacy: Exceptional, and your average South African does not realize just how much so.

My favourite thing: The design philosophy, I think all models are stunning. The Jaguar F-Type is the Ferrari 308 of 2013 in my eyes.

My least favourite thing: Very little.

Tip for the brand: Show some muscle and take the fight to Audi in particular and show BMW and Mercedes you are on their level.

Tip for buyers: Shop around, as prices vary a lot for same cars. You can negotiate on both new and second hand when it comes to Jaguar.

Would I buy it? Yes for sure.

Mike Score: 8.5/10

Jeep

Positives: Not nearly as many as there should be. The iconic Wrangler in my view is the only reason this brand is relevant.

Negatives: Poor resale value, limited product range, pricey, fuel inefficient and essentially not as good as the competition.

Brand cachet: Jeep clothing is fantastic and many people feel the same way. The brand itself is iconic, but not nearly as relevant as it ought to be.

Dealer network: No challenges here. Stellantis who import Alfa, Citroen, Jeep, Opel and Peugeot into SA have just on 80 dealerships across SA.

Alternatives: Other than the Wrangler, pretty much all manufacturers have a competitor for Jeep. A competitor that is better.

Legacy: Absolutely the epitome of iconic and the Wrangler is the main reason.

My favourite thing: The fact that Jeep owners flash lights at each other when they pass.

My least favourite thing: The pricing new makes no sense and surely the importers can see that.

Tip for the brand: Drop the Renegade, improve pricing on Wrangler and please keep the long wheelbase hearse, I mean the Grand Cherokee, a secret.

Tip for buyers: Look at second hand before new, as there are some amazing options available.

Would I buy it? Guilty, I own a Wrangler Unlimited and love it.

Mike Score: 6.5/10

Kia

Positives: Warranty, looks, quality, low theft risk and superb resale value.

Negatives: We are talking Kia, so speedily we move on.

Brand cachet: Like its brother from another mother, Kia is focused on families. In my opinion equal to the stand-out name, that is Toyota.

Dealer network: Superb. Wherever you are in SA, you will be able to service your reliable Kia.

Alternatives: Chery, GWM/Haval, Hyundai, Mazda, Nissan, Suzuki and Toyota.

Legacy: Until 1998 I had not heard of the Kia brand. One company changed that! Thanks to Motus, we have a brand that is just superb on our shores.

My favourite thing: The exterior styling. This is what happens when you head-hunt the designer of the Audi TT.

My least favourite thing: That we cannot find enough of them second hand. Superb sellers!

Tip for the brand: Keep doing what you are doing. The public love your excellent product, and deservedly so.

Tip for buyers: Superb products and you can be choosy, especially when looking second hand.

Would I buy it? Yes, without missing a vital heart beat!

Mike Score: 8.5/10

Land Rover

Positives: Styling, interior quality and just a superb all-round product.

Negatives: You will have to put up with stale jokes about Land Rover products from a time when Margaret Thatcher was the only real man in the Conservative Party.

Brand cachet: Excellent and truly the one kings and queens aspire to!

Dealer network: Excellent. They are where they are needed.

Alternatives: Aston Martin, BMW, Lamborghini, Mercedes and Porsche. This is how good this car is.

Legacy: When it comes to 4x4s, in my opinion, the world owes Land Rover and Range Rover (from 1979) a huge debt of gratitude. The good folks from Greenpeace will take me to task on this point.

My favourite thing: That I am privileged enough to own a Land Rover Discovery 3 and Range Rover Autobiography. Exceptional vehicles!

My least favourite thing: With genuine honesty, zero. The product is exemplary.

Tip for the brand: Keep the fact that Tata own JLR a secret. However, keep using the vast resources that this incredible Indian mega-company has for R&D.

Tip for buyers: Work hard and buy a Land Rover/Range Rover, it’s a magnificent marque.

Would I buy it? I already have and this is one of two brands that get a perfect 10/10 score.

Mike Score: 10/10

Mahindra

Positives: No brand I know has ever gone from zero to hero like Mahindra. Their new products are really impressive. A good friend of mine and well-known motoring personality Adam Ford sums it up perfectly – it is like Mahindra decided to skip Gen two, three and four and just went from Gen one to Gen five.

Negatives: Perceived as cheap and nasty, based on the fact it’s made in India. The initial offering fully deserved this bad reputation.

Brand cachet: No one is going to admire you for buying a Mahindra and that will never change. Some people are content with knowing not showing. :-)

Dealer network: Very good and struggling brands like Audi can learn from Mahindra. 56 branches and focusing on the smaller towns for growth.

Alternatives: Ford, GWM and Nissan. The fact that Mahindra is now an option for farmers across SA is telling.

Legacy: Lets focus on the future, as it is very bright.

My favourite thing: I am not the right person to ask…. However, I repeat, I admire the brand's strategy.

My least favourite thing: That they offer double cabs. :-)

Tip for the brand: Continue to grow the dealer network and focus on customer retention.

Tip for buyers: Only look at the newer models. If someone mentions Bolero say Mikey said 'stop it'.

Would I buy it? If I was a farmer who plays the most incredible role in our food security, yes.

Mike Score: 7/10

Mazda

Positives: Absolutely stand-out quality in every respect. Mazda is in my opinion the premier Japanese brand on the market. Looks superb and just all-round appealing.

Negatives: Choice of engines on many models and no doubt this is affecting sales.

Brand cachet: If ever there was a brand that deserved more, its Mazda.

Dealer network: Good but slightly behind Ford, Nissan, Suzuki and Toyota.

Alternatives: Literally every Chinese, Korean and Japanese brand. Mazda is stand out with CX-3 and CX-5, CX-30 and CX-60, but not everyone is aware.

Legacy: From the halcyon days of 323 and 626, Mazda have not moved forward. This is not in terms of product quality, but rather like Honda have just been less than ideally positioned.

My favourite thing: CX-3 and the fact that I have never heard of a Mazda being stolen. Also I must add the MX-5 Club of SA are a bunch of superb people.

My least favourite thing: The fact that such an excellent product is so 'unknown' in SA.

Tip for the brand: Whatever you are doing change it, because it is not working. You could have Toyota quaking in their boots, yet you are rivalling Honda. In 2024 go after Audi!

Tip for buyers: Buy this superb product with your eyes closed both new and used.

Would I buy it? I bought the most magnificent original 1979 Mazda 323 from the original family and a magnificent 2003 Mazda Sting.

Mike Score: 8.5/10 and could be 9/10.

Mercedes-Benz

Positives: To discuss the positives of the Three Pointed Star requires hours not a few words. If there is one brand in South Africa that has my admiration, it is Mercedes-Benz. I know I am far from alone in this belief. A visit to the East London plant will show you how heavily invested in our beautiful country this legendary brand is. As for their current product offering… if there is a box, tick it.

Negatives: Not one that I can think of and that I believe again, is shared by a cross section of our population.

Brand cachet: Let’s just say this is as good as it gets, deservedly so. Mercedes has been a leader in the industry since Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz saw no future in riding a bicycle. :-)

Dealer network: Superb and every single facility is stand-out quality and you feel you are at a premium location.

Alternatives: BMW, Land Rover, Maserati, Porsche and in a few cases, Audi.

Legacy: Where does one start, and it’s clear that there is no finish. Mercedes are synonymous with safety, motorsport and performance.

My favourite thing:That Mercedes are consistently at the top of the game. Ask ten people in what order they rate Audi, BMW and Mercedes and you will get five Mercedes, four BMW and one Audi.

My least favourite thing: That Lewis Hamilton has gone two seasons without winning. As for Mercedes cars, let’s move on speedily.

Tip for the brand: Never change the ethos of your brand. Quality is the what Mercedes is stand-out famous for. Performance and safety is the cherry on the beautiful German cake.

Tip for buyers: You will not regret your choice both new and second hand.

Would I buy it: Yes in capitals.

Mike Score: 9.5/10

Mitsubishi

Positives: Super low theft risk and that is always a positive. Very nice looking vehicles in my opinion and rock solid reliability.

Negatives: Ask anyone and I mean anyone to name four Japanese brands in SA and if they mention Mitsubishi, I will eat my Pajero hat.

Brand cachet: Very little and it is sad. The Pajero and Lancer (In Evo Guise) are legendary. This brand should be on the level of Nissan at least.

Dealer network: Acceptable, but not ideal, and it all goes hand in hand with the lack of sales.

Alternatives: Chery, GWM/Haval, Hyundai, Kia, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Suzuki and Toyota. This is where the issue for this fine brand lies.

Legacy: In SA very little has been done to promote the incredible street cred of the Evo and Pajero.

My favourite thing: That it's different in the most positive way.

My least favourite thing: Difficult to spell and unlike Mercedes-Benz and 'Merc', calling it a Mitsu just sounds wrong. :-)

Tip for the brand: Tell the marketing team not to try and win the camouflage prize year in year out.

Tip for buyers: Give this brand more than a second glance. Pajero Sport for me in particular is a no-brainer.

Would I buy it? Short answer, yes…l ong version, my Pajero 3800 'Shorty' was one of the best cars I owned.

Mike Score: 7.5/10

Nissan

Positives: I like the styling of Nissan and particularly their front end. The vehicles are reliable and ownership is generally hassle-free.

Negatives: For such a mainstream brand, their offering in SA is very limited and that needs to change.

Brand cachet: Nissan is like Finland. Well-known and does nothing whatsoever wrong. However, Sweden, Denmark and Norway are more likely holiday destinations. I have to pat myself on the back for this analogy. :-)

Dealer network: Excellent and after Ford and Toyota, has the best dealer network in SA with 117 dealerships. If you stay in the North, South, East or West, you can with Nissan.

Alternatives: Chery, GWM/Haval, Hyundai, Kia, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Toyota and Suzuki. There is no stand-out must-have Nissan in the eyes of the public and that has to be worked on.

Legacy: From the Datsun 120Y, SSS, Nissan 1400, Safari, Skyline GTX, Hardbody, here is a brand that has serious history. Then of course there is the all-time stand out GT-R.

My favourite thing: The brand has no stand-out weaknesses and is just an all-round solid safe buy.

My least favourite thing: That when you mention any Nissan as an option, you get 'I did think about that, but what are your thoughts on?!'

Tip for the brand: Take the fight to Toyota and Suzuki. The brand is in the same league and sales in Australia and North America bear this out. Google how Nissan performs in China and you will be in awe.

Tip for buyers: Don’t hesitate about a Nissan.

Would I buy it? Yes, I practice what I preach.

Mike Score: 8/10

Opel

Positives: Very appealing designs and ultra-low risk in terms of theft.

Negatives: Poor historic record, parts availability at times, quality not up to scratch and limited product offering.

Brand cachet: Interesting one for Opel. No one sees Opel as premium and anything German should be seen as premium. Great following amongst die-hard fans who reminisce about the days of the 'Big Boss' and 'Superboss'.

Dealer network: Acceptable and sufficient if you live in a city that German people have heard of. If you live in Bethlehem, may I recommend anything else.

Alternatives: If you read this guide from A-V, those are your alternatives in my opinion.

Legacy: Very little that anyone is aware of. Opel has done a dismal job with this brand, I truly believe.

My favourite thing: That I own an immaculate 1990 Monza 160 GLE with only 60,000km as well as a beautiful 1989 Kadett GSE.

My least favourite thing: That there is not a single application in which Opel have the 'must have' product.

Tip for the brand: Look at every single reason the product is not selling and fix each item.

Tip for buyers: Read this guide carefully and remember it covers all from A-V…. 'O' that’s right, but in this case 'O' it’s not. :-)

Would I buy it? New, most definitely No. Second hand, definitely worth a shout if you're getting divorced and you need to buy your partner a vehicle that will make them hate and remember you forever.

Mike Score: 5/10

Peugeot

Positives: Absolutely exquisite designs and I really am a fan of the looks. Every time I see one, I like it. Very low theft risk and for me, these are huge positives for all.

Negatives: Limited dealerships, poor resale value even if not totally deserved. Poor parts availability and trust issues around reliability.

Brand cachet: Not great and such a shame. Peugeot should be streets ahead of the Chinese, ahead of the Koreans and on par with the Japanese products. This is not the case.

Dealer network: No issues in major centres, but limited outside of.

Alternatives: When it comes to looks, zero and Peugeot can be super proud in this regard. However when it comes to value for money, after sales service and future resale value… kindly read my A-V guide. :-)

Legacy: The 404 and 504 are spoken about with great affection. If you visit West Africa you will be in one as a taxi. Sadly, the halcyon days of Peugeot are in the history books and that is sad for this once premier brand.

My favourite thing: That when you buy a Peugeot you stand out and for the right reasons.

My least favourite thing: That when you buy one, your knowledge of vehicles is questioned, as is your sanity.

Tip for the brand: Win over the public and if you need help, I am dead serious, feel free to engage me.

Tip for buyers: Dare to be different and look at low mileage second hand options.

Would I buy it? Before an Opel, any day. On other days, I would definitely consider it second-hand.

Mike Score: 7/10

Porsche

Positives: Everything you can think of! Looks, performance, brand cachet, service, back up and just the fact that this is one of the world’s finest products!

Negatives: We are talking about Porsche, there are no negatives. The crazy thing is, even the pricing on second-hand vehicles is surprisingly affordable.

Brand cachet: What car do you drive? A Porsche! That is in my opinion the ultimate statement. Porsche does not have the potential negative wannabee connotations of some ultra-top end brands.

Dealer network: There are four dealerships across SA namely, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria. Porsche offer a 24-hour roadside assistance nationwide.

Alternatives: BMW, Ferrari, Land Rover/Range Rover, Lamborghini Maserati and heaven. This fine brand has a product that rivals, matches and betters its competitors.

Legacy: If there is one marque that has a legacy then it starts with a P and ends with e. From the day Ferdinand Porsche decided, that VW is the people's car and some people are more equal than others, this incredible brand has excelled. The Porsche 911 is stand-out in my opinion and the most identifiable ‘super-car’ of all time. The Porsche 917 is in the pantheon of motorsport greatness and the list goes on.

My favourite thing: The styling, the quality and in SA, the incredible back-up that Porsche centres provide.

My least favourite thing: Sometimes I feel this category is not needed and when it comes to Porsche, I know it’s not needed.

Tip for the brand: Continue to market the product as the absolute premium product it is. Equally make more people aware that a Porsche is within their reach, as it truly is.

Tip for buyers: If you are looking for a vehicle in this category, go in and see what a Porsche centre is about. You will not just be impressed, you will be smitten. It is imperative that when looking at this stand-out product, you buy from a Porsche centre, as only they offer the full Drive-Plan option on their used products.

Would I buy it? Yes when new, yes when second-hand, yes when young, old, male or female.

Mike Score: 10/10

Proton

Positives: It is very rare that I can say that I detest a brand. In this case Proton have succeeded. There is not one compelling thing about this product, that for me would make me consider driving one. Unless I was in a war zone and the United Nations where evacuating people in Protons.

Negatives: Styling is dated, the tech is irritating, the plastics are hard and just all-round way behind the competition. China, India, Korea, Japan, Germany and Sweden know how to make cars. Malaysia does not!

Brand cachet: Zero and that is flattering the brand.

Dealer network: Surprisingly decent, but how well they are geared parts wise, is an unknown.

Alternatives: Anything else, new or second hand and I really do mean anything.

Legacy: Let’s not joke. Proton were in South Africa and then left. In the words of Car Magazine ‘they must have left for a reason’, in my opinion, that reason was that no one liked their products.

My favourite thing: The X-50 is a surprisingly appealing vehicle on certain levels. I was taken around Kyalami in one and if this was the only Proton on offer, I would be less unimpressed by the brand.

My least favourite thing: The fact that there is zero manufacturer backing. It is Imported by a motor group and unlike all its competitors, cannot be seen as an OEM. Then the name of the entry level Saga. 'Hey John/Mary how is your Proton Saga going?' Go figure!

Tip for the brand: Listen to those who have given you sound advice. Work with people in the industry and not against them. Realize that if you compete head-on with other manufacturers, you will not succeed. Proton as a product is overpriced. No legacy and minimal backing. You need to fundamentally understand the challenges and not wear blinkers!

Tip for buyers: Don’t buy it, unless you have lost a bet and want to show that you are an honourable individual.

Would I buy it? No and that is both new and second-hand. In my personal view, and the view of other journalists, this is the worst brand currently on offer in SA.

Mike Score: 3/10

Renault

Positives: Very nice styling and all-round an appealing vehicle. Worked hard to dispel the negativity around the brand historically.

Negatives: Perceived resale value, parts availability and long-term reliability. These are perceived and in time, I hope Renault change these perceptions.

Brand cachet: Very decent and while seen as left field, it's often first choice left-field.

Dealer network: Very good and with over 80 dealerships, you are well covered. Renault is backed by Motus (formerly Imperial) and are doing an excellent job of presenting the brand in SA.

Alternatives: A lot and many will be seen as safer options, especially the Korean and Japanese products.

Legacy: Renault is a brand that shouts "I am French, I dare to be different and I am chic". Incredible motorsport heritage.

My favourite thing: That it's different and always in a positive way.

My least favourite thing: That many of the incredible European offerings in the stable do not make it to our shores.

Tip for the brand: Play to your strengths and market this chic brand to the right audience.

Tip for buyers: Give it a more than a second glance.

Would I buy it: Yes.

Mike Score: 7.5/10

Subaru

Positives: There are many and this is a great underrated brand that deserves success worldwide. Standard spec and pricing is superb.

Negatives: Very little and deservedly so.

Brand cachet: Just fine by its owners who are proud of their Scoobys.

Dealer network: Limited, but not an issue as there are dealerships where they are needed. Plus, they are seriously mechanically bullet-proof.

Alternatives: Plenty and very little all in one. Subaru have a limited offering in SA, but (a positive but) what they offer is stand-out.

Legacy: WRC is where this legend was born. WRX is Subaru as is the Forester and I respect this brand immensely.

My favourite thing: The handling of these incredible AWD Boxer engine vehicles.

My least favourite thing: That I don’t see enough on the road.

Tip for the brand: You have an incredible product that many potential buyers don’t even consider. Take the fight to the streets and get ‘dirty’, that is where Subaru is at its best, if you get my ‘drift’?

for buyers: Test drive one and see what different in the right way, is about.

Would I buy it? Unhesitatingly YES.

Mike Score: 8.5/10

Suzuki

Positives: Absolutely unlimited and what an incredible brand. Nice styling, well priced, a product for every need and just a solid sound choice.

Negatives: As someone who deals with customers every day, I have yet to have an unhappy Suzuki client.

Brand cachet: Superb and growing by the month.

Dealer network: Equally superb and also literally growing by the month. Suzuki want your business and they are coming to your town.

Alternatives: Plenty. Better alternatives? I am all ears and I know the answer already.

Legacy: Growing by the year and that is across SA.

My favourite thing: Suzuki Swift Sport and how well loved the brand is.

My least favourite thing: The engine on the Jimny. Put in a 1.0L or 1.2L turbo and the winner you have will be unbeatable.

Tip for the brand: Continue respecting the public and understanding what makes a brand successful. You have many fans and I am one of them.

Tip for buyers: Look at the other options first, so that when you at the Suzuki dealership, you can sign there and then. You won’t be sorry.

Would I buy it? Ja, ewe, yebo and yes.

Mike Score: 9/10

Toyota

Positives: In 2023 there are very few brands that are not very good. The difference is Toyota have been stand out for the last 50 years and will be so in the next 50 to come. Reliability and quality are what continues to set this brand apart.

Negatives: You tell me, as I truly cannot think of one!

Brand cachet: Superb and along with their incredible luxury division Lexus, the brand cachet is stand-out.

Dealer network: Best in the country and by some distance. Every town has a PEP and every town has a Toyota dealership.

Alternatives: Like Suzuki with whom this incredible brand works closely, there are many. However finding better is not easy and that’s across the range.

Legacy: Top notch. Everything keeps going right. True words that the brand continues to work hard for.

My favourite thing: The unlimited kilometre warranty extension for up to eight years at around R12,000. Let that tell you the strength of this brand.

My least favourite thing: Being cut off by a Toyota Quantum taxi on a daily basis. :-)

Tip for the brand: Bring back the slogan 'everything keeps going right Toyota' as for the rest, you are the example others need to follow.

Tip for buyers: If you're looking for best resale value, ease of ownership and a no risk choice… visit your local Toyota dealer, as there truly is one near you.

Would I buy it? Yes and for every reason and season.

Mike Score: 9.5/10

Volkswagen

Positives: So many and let's nail them. Incredible styling and with the R-Line package, more so. Superb engines and super gearboxes, I am a DSG Fan.

Negatives: From a vehicle point of view, zero in my eyes. Unfortunately real and perceived, VW’s are stolen and higher risk than the competition. VW pricing is also edging to the high side.

Brand cachet: Top notch and what other manufacturers aspire to.

Dealer network: Superb and only slightly behind Ford and Nissan while chasing the market leader, Toyota. With 109 dealerships you are well covered wherever you are in SA.

Alternatives: Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Toyota and Volvo when comparing apples with apples. However lately and mainly due to pricing, the brand is facing stiff competition from the Chinese brands.

Legacy: Once the 'People's Car', always the 'People's Car'. VW SA can be very proud of their contribution historically, in the present and future. Uitenhage owes VW a great deal of gratitude.

My favourite thing: The name continuity like Golf from the 70s till present and Polo from the 90s till present.

My least favourite thing: Pricing and the fact that to some scoundrels, price is not a factor. My Polo is my Polo and you have no right to steal it. :-)

Tip for the brand: Continue the love affair the public has with your incredible brand and work hard on containing the price increases.

Tip for buyers: When buying second-hand, shop long and hard. These are ultra-popular vehicles and you have mega choice, don’t rush.

Would I buy it? Unhesitatingly yes.

Mike Score: 9/10

Volvo

Positives: I love the styling and even more so on the latest versions. All modern cars are super safe, but Volvo still pushes the envelope on enhanced safety.

Negatives: Perceived resale value and I say perceived, because in reality it is most definitely not behind Audi as an example.

Brand cachet: Not as strong as it ought to be. An 'old man’s car' perception is most certainly not what this innovative brand deserves.

Dealer network: Good in the three major provinces and this is where Volvo buyers are.

Alternatives: Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW and to a small degree, Mercedes.

Legacy: Exceptional, and Volvo deserves more recognition than it gets. Volvo invented the three point safety belt (inertia reel) in 1959 and were instrumental in airbag innovation for cars.

My favourite thing: That Volvo in 1959 chose not to patent the technology of three point safety belts. Rather, they chose to share this innovation with other manufacturers. Why? Volvo cared about saving lives. That alone for me, will be why I am a fan of this incredible marque.

My least favourite thing: From a pure vehicle perspective, I cannot fault this brand.

Tip for the brand: Work harder to ensure that buyers that would and should consider a Volvo, actually do view and possibly test drive one.

Tip for buyers: If you are looking for a good looking, safe practical well designed car, then go look at a brand that would possibly not automatically be on your list.

Would I buy it? Ja… and yes… I loved Abba, and I really respect and like the Volvo brand.

Mike Score: 8.5/10

You will notice I have not covered Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Lotus, Maserati, McLaren and Rolls Royce. The simple reason is that I have no followers from Hollywood, the English Premier League, or F1. However, I give each of the brands a 10/10 score, zero negatives and huge brand cachet.

Would I buy one? No. I am holding out for the daydream that one of them would wish to make me a brand ambassador. For ease of getting hold of me, I repeat 083 377 5432. :-) and az.oc.gnirotomsgnihtlla@leahcim.

Regards, Mike