High interest rates, rising fuel prices and economic downturn have hurt auto sales, however new vehicle launches may have had a positive impact on June’s sales which indicate the market is up 3.3% on the corresponding month last year. The following list shows another batch of exciting, new and upgraded vehicles that were launched in South Africa during the month of June 2013.

2013 Toyota Etios – from R118 800

Toyota brought us a revised Etios which has sold 24 523 units since its first launch. The model was upgraded to celebrate its one year milestone, and now features a 66kW engine, enhanced exterior features and a redesigned interior.

Citroen C3 – from R166 900

Citroen launched the supermini C3 available in three trim lines namely Attraction, Seduction and Exclusive. The quirky-looking car also claims fuel consumption figures as low as 4.7 litres/100km with emissions of 109 g/km.

Hyundai Sonata – R379 900

Hyundai introduced the sixth generation Sonata to tackle the premium sedan segment with its advanced fuel efficient 2.4-litre GDI engine, and fresh appearance.

Isuzu KB – from R400 900

GMSA dropped prices across the board and added five derivatives to its already comprehensive Isuzu KB range.

Maserati Quattroporte – exclusively available at Viglietti Motors

The flagship of the Maserati model range, the fourth generation Quattroporte is now available in South Africa, which the company claims is a significant leap forward that not only sets the high-technology tone for Maserati’s upcoming range of new models, but also remains faithful to Maserati’s long history of luxury sports sedans.

Subaru Outback – R459 000

The Subaru Outback is now offered with a diesel and CVT boost and is available with a three-year/100 000km warranty and three-year/60 000km maintenance plan.

Nissan Panel Vans – from R187 000

Nissan launched a new range of panels vans consisting of the NV200 and NV350 which will be complemented by the new Combi variants later this year.

Mercedes Benz E 300 BlueTEC – R 634 000

The whole E-Class range was given makeover including an addition of Mercedes-Benz’ first locally available hybrid, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid which offers a wealth of extra functions that enhance the sedan’s comfort and efficiency.

Mercedes Benz E 63 AMG – from R1 275 604

Another upgrade from Mercedes-Benz is the new top-of-the-range high performance E 63 AMG with S-power, which in 4matic spec is the fastest 4-door production car ever. 0 – 100km/h in 3.7 seconds makes it as fast as supercars like the Lamborghini Gallardo.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet – from R582 554

The revamp also included the dynamic Coupe and Cabriolet line-up, sporting fresh looks and top of the class intelligent drive features from Mercedes-Benz.