Meet the 3 finalists in the Budget Hatch category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa! The winner of this #CarsAwards category will be announced on 29 February 2024.
The 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa is the 7th iteration of SA’s definitive consumer-driven automotive awards programme that aims to identify the best new vehicles on sale in Mzansi across 13 categories.
Judges first compiled a list of 65 semi-finalists – then trimmed it to 39 finalists. Following that, all #CarsAwards finalist vehicles were subjected to a rigorous 2-day test at Gerotek at the beginning of November 2023, after which they starred in the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Roadshow at the Mall of Africa where, for the first time, the public could experience the cars – and meet the judges – in the flesh.
See the complete list: 2023/24 CarsAwards – The 39 finalists
Read more about the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards
The Budget Hatch category
In these cash-strapped times, almost everyone is on a tight budget. Does buying an affordable new car therefore mean that you have to compromise on safety, technology and quality? No, not necessarily. The winner of this important #CarsAwards category must represent “as much new car as you can get for your money”. Value for money is important, as are running costs and other “common sense” considerations.
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price between R250 000 and R350 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). What’s more, eligible vehicles in this category must have an anti-lock braking system (ABS), dual front (or more) airbags and a service plan.
Pillars of success for this category include fuel economy, value for money, practicality and brand strength.
Best Budget Hatch in SA: CarsAwards Finalists
Renault Clio 1.0 Turbo Zen
The latest iteration of the Renault Clio took its time to get to South Africa and while some suggest the B-segment hatch segment is no longer that relevant, the Clio (and the other finalists) represent great value. The Clio is powered by a small-yet-punchy turbopetrol engine, boasts a modern cabin and has all the “bells and whistles” considered essential at this price point. Luggage space is surprisingly generous too.
Read a review of the Renault Clio
Find a Renault Clio for sale on Cars.co.za
Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX
It’s a delight to find a spacious, well-thought-out and generously equipped budget hatchback that doesn’t cost a fortune to buy or own. Although it still utilises the underpinnings of its predecessor, the 2nd-gen Baleno remains one of very few “oversized” small hatchbacks that offer good rear legroom; it’s well-made, suitably comfortable, has a proven, fuel-frugal powertrain and is renowned for its reliability.
Read a review of the Suzuki Baleno
Find a Suzuki Baleno for sale on Cars.co.za
Toyota Starlet 1.5 XR
While it may be a clone of the Suzuki Baleno, the Starlet has a few tricks up its sleeve, such as Toyota’s renowned after-sales backup, a strong resale proposition and the support of the widest vehicle dealer network in Mzansi. The latest iteration of the model incorporates more obvious aesthetic differences to the Baleno, but the Toyota also impresses with its abundant cabin space, great engine and good value.
Read a review of the Toyota Starlet
Find a Toyota Starlet for sale on Cars.co.za
More about the #CarsAwards
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) will be named on 29 February 2024.
Follow the #CarsAwards on Cars.co.za, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.
