Date of broadcast: 01 June 2016
BMW 318i
Engine: In-line three-cylinder, 1 499 cc turbo
Power: 100 kW @ 4 500 - 6 000 rpm
Torque: 220 Nm @ 1 250 - 4 300 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio: 66,66 kW/ton
Gearbox: Eight-speed automatic, RWD
Wheels/tyres: 16-inch alloy, 205/60 R16
0-100 km/h: 9,1 sec
Top speed: 210 km/h
Fuel tank capacity: 60 litres
Fuel consumption (claimed): 5,0 litres/100 km
Operating range (claimed): 1 200 km
CO2 emissions: 116 g/km
Pros: Great engine & gearbox, dynamic talent.
Cons: The least adventurous option.
Price as tested: R446 400
Mercedes Benz C180
Engine: In-line Five-cylinder, 1 595 cc turbo
Power: 115 kW @ 5 300 rpm
Torque: 220 Nm @ 1 250 - 4 300 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio: 80,70 kW/ton
Gearbox: Seven-speed automatic, RWD
Wheels/tyres: 17-inch alloy, 225/50 R17
0-100 km/h: 8,5 sec
Top speed: 223 km/h
Fuel tank capacity: 66 litres
Fuel consumption (claimed): 5,8 litres/100 km
Operating range (claimed): 1 137km
CO2 emissions: 135 g/km
Pros: Elegant inside & out. Surprisingly dynamic.
Cons: Gearbox can feel cumbersome.
Price as tested: R493 110
Audi A4 1.4 TFSI
Engine: In-line four-cylinder, 1 395 cc, turbo
Power: 110 kW @ 5 000 - 6 000 rpm
Torque: 250 Nm @ 1 500 - 3 500 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio: 80,0 kW/ton
Gearbox: Seven-speed, dual-clutch, FWD
Wheels/tyres: 16-inch alloy, 205/60 R16 tyres
0-100 km/h: 8,5 sec
Top speed: 210 km/h
Fuel tank capacity: 54 litres
Fuel consumption (claimed): 4,9 litres/100 km
Operating range (claimed): 1 102 km
CO2 emissions: 114 g/km
Pros: A great balance of looks, comfort and driveability.
Cons: Styling hasn’t advanced too far over previous model.
Price as tested: R427 000
Prices correct on date of broadcast.