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In the fiercely competitive theatre of the modern automotive market, few vehicles can lay claim to inventing an entire segment. Yet, as the world prepares to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Nissan X-Trail in 2025, we must acknowledge a fundamental truth: the X-Trail did precisely that. When it first launched in 2000, it wasn’t just another entrant in the utility market; it was a quiet revolution that introduced the concept of the competent, comfortable, and crucially, accessible crossover, a segment that now dominates global sales charts.
The X-Trail’s genesis was a direct challenge to the established order of the early 2000s. Back then, if you wanted an SUV, you bought a heavy, truck-like machine built on a ladder-frame chassis, delivering clumsy on-road manners and abysmal fuel economy. Nissan’s breakthrough was an act of visionary simplicity: marry the high driving position and rugged aesthetic of a 4×4 with the refined handling and structural integrity of a family sedan. This was the X-Trail’s defining structural leap.
The Structural Shift: From Truck to Unibody
The shift to a monocoque (unibody) construction was the X-Trail’s first, most consequential innovation. By integrating the chassis and body into a single structural unit, Nissan immediately unlocked superior safety, rigidity, and, most importantly for the family buyer, dynamic stability. This structure was lighter than traditional truck platforms, dramatically improving fuel efficiency and steering response.
The X-Trail was the first vehicle to prove that a family could have that desirable commanding view of the road while still enjoying a car-like ride quality and precise handling. It redefined utility, making the high-rider accessible and practical for everyday suburban life.
The vehicle’s exterior design was rugged yet clean, eschewing unnecessary bulk for a look of purposeful capability. Crucially, the early generations championed versatility. The washable, robust plastic lining in the boot area of the first-generation model became an instant legend among outdoor enthusiasts, signifying that this was a vehicle designed to handle muddy boots, wet gear, and real-life mess. A simple yet brilliant design attribute that resonated deeply with active families.
Mechanical Mastery: The Intelligent Drivetrain
The X-Trail’s appeal was secured by its mechanical integrity, most notably its approach to all-wheel drive. While the structure was car-like, the drivetrain was anything but flimsy. It introduced the concept of Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD), a system that operated predominantly in fuel-saving front-wheel drive but could instantaneously and electronically distribute torque to the rear wheels when slip was detected, or when the driver pre-emptively selected ‘Lock’ mode at low speeds.
This system, a precursor to the advanced intelligent drivetrains of today, provided genuine off-road capability-backed by respectable approach and departure angles, without demanding the maintenance or fuel penalty of a full-time 4×4.
Powering the X-Trail is a strong 2.5L naturally-aspirated petrol engine (135kW/244Nm), paired with a smooth Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for good city, highway driving, and more than enough power for when the roads turn to trails.
The Modern Zenith: Safety and Technology
The X-Trail’s 25-year journey has been one of constant, measured innovation. The current generation embodies this heritage by leading with award-winning safety and next-generation connectivity.
The contemporary X-Trail is routinely celebrated for its structural integrity, regularly achieving maximum five-star ratings from organisations like Euro NCAP and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). This success is underpinned by the sophisticated Nissan Safety Shield suite, which includes a comprehensive array of passive and active safety features.
The technological crown jewel is the Intelligent Driver Assistance System, ProPILOT Assist. This system represents the pinnacle of modern driver convenience and safety, utilizing radar and camera technology to effectively manage steering, acceleration, and braking. It can maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, stay centred in the lane, and even bring the car to a complete stop and restart in heavy traffic reducing driver fatigue on long journeys and significantly elevating safety.
Furthermore, the vehicle’s interior is a testament to its evolution. The Multimedia and Infotainment systems now integrate seamlessly with the digital world, featuring large, high-resolution touchscreens and connectivity that satisfies the demands of the modern, always-on family.
The famous versatility has also been modernized, with flexible seating configurations, including the option for seven seats, confirming its unshakeable family focus.
The Enduring Legacy
The X-Trail’s enduring success over a quarter-century is not accidental. It is the result of a deliberate, forward-thinking strategy that placed consumer needs ahead of tradition. It democratised the SUV, making its benefits accessible, safe, and efficient.
As we look at the overwhelming sea of crossovers on the road today, from every manufacturer imaginable, we are looking at the extended family of the X-Trail. This Nissan didn’t just survive 25 years in a brutally competitive segment; it defined the parameters of that segment. The Nissan X-Trail remains an uncompromising icon. A testament to innovation, utility, and the quiet revolution it sparked two and a half decades ago. Its legacy is the modern driving world. This is a celebration, a celebration of motoring and 25-years of X-Trail by Nissan!
The city of Cape Town, for all its beauty, is a symphony of motion. But sometimes, true luxury is found in the silence of an escape. Our journey began not with a roar, but with a barely perceptible whisper, as we slipped away from the urban bustle in the new Range Rover Velar PHEV. This is the future of luxury mobility: uncompromised performance paired with a deeply thoughtful environmental consciousness.
The Velar, in its silent EV Mode, glided effortlessly through the suburbs, the whisper-quiet electric motor proving its worth immediately. Our first intentional stop was a small, high-end roastery tucked away near the N1, a place that, like the Velar, is committed to sustainably sourced perfection. As we sipped our ethically sourced coffee, the Velar was parked, a sculpture of modern design against the rustic backdrop, having consumed zero petrol to get us there. It was a conscious pause before the great unveiling of the Winelands.
As the cityscape receded, the Velar shifted seamlessly into Hybrid Mode, the powerful Range Rover engine marrying with the electric torque to ensure effortless, confident cruising through the rolling Cape countryside. The journey was as intoxicating as the destination, the spacious, leather-clad cabin becoming a sanctuary where the only sound was the curated playlist flowing from the Meridian sound system.
Our arrival at the Grande Roche Hotel & Spa in Paarl felt like stepping onto a heritage film set. This historic estate, with its Cape Dutch gables and towering mountain views, is where old-world charm meets considered luxury. After the Velar was plugged into its dedicated charger for its own ‘recharge,’ we were escorted to our suite, a haven of tranquillity overlooking manicured gardens and the endless emerald expanse of the vineyards. As night fell, we were treated to an intimate, candlelit dinner under the vast, star-dusted African sky. A moment of serene perfection that reset the soul.
The next morning broke in a blaze of African gold, the sunrise painting Paarl Rock in vivid hues. Energized, we dedicated the day to exploring the forward-thinking nature of the surrounding valley. We embraced the spirit of the region, first heading to the Spice Route Destination to engage the senses with local craft and artistry. From there, we ventured to the famed Fairview dairies, meeting the characterful, curious goats and learning about the farm’s commitment to sustainable, ethical production—a perfect synergy with the Velar’s own philosophy.
Returning to the Grande Roche, we enjoyed a refreshing game of tennis on the immaculately maintained courts, the perfect active interlude before the day’s ultimate indulgence. That evening, the promise of the hotel’s internationally trained chefs was delivered in a spectacular multi-course meal. Each plate a masterpiece that celebrates local ingredients with global technique.
The Range Rover Velar PHEV was, in every sense, the ideal companion. It is a vehicle that embodies forward-thinking modern luxury without sacrificing the deep-seated heritage and charm of the Land Rover lineage. It gives you the silent, ethical commute, the effortless long-range capability, and the absolute assurance that your journey is as refined as your destination. The Velar PHEV doesn’t just transport you; it confirms your commitment to a future where luxury and sustainability are finally one and the same.
Precision Meets Power in the All-New HUAWEI nova 14 Pro
New HUAWEI nova 14 Pro brings next-gen imaging and AI intelligence to South Africa
The HUAWEI nova 14 Series has officially launched in South Africa, introducing a new standard for smartphone design and innovation. With its advanced imaging system, lightning-fast charging, and intelligent EMUI experience, the HUAWEI nova 14 Pro showcases just how far mobile technology can go in enabling creativity.
Centred around the theme Pro Your Portrait, this series celebrates individuality through precision engineering. Behind every beautiful image and fluid interaction lies next-generation technology that combines hardware mastery with AI intelligence, delivering professional-grade performance in the palm of your hand.
The science behind the Ultra Chroma Camera
At the heart of the HUAWEI nova 14 Pro is Huawei’s most advanced imaging system to date: the Ultra Chroma Camera. This revolutionary sensor captures multispectral light data that extends far beyond traditional RGB systems. Using advanced computational photography, it fuses that data to reproduce colour temperature, contrast, and tone with exceptional accuracy. A 120% improvement in colour reproduction over the previous generation and a 150,000-fold boost in spatial resolution.
The result is a level of realism that bridges the gap between smartphone and professional camera. Skin tones appear natural, light behaves authentically, and the subtle depth in each frame gives portraits a true-to-life feel. Combined with Huawei’s upgraded XD Portrait Engine 3.0, which analyses shape, texture, glow, colour, and blur, the nova 14 Pro crafts portraits with depth and precision that rival DSLR results.
Front-facing innovation for the selfie era
The 50MP dual front camera system represents another technological advancement. It pairs a 50MP Ultra Portrait Autofocus Camera with an 8MP Close-up Portrait Camera, offering an industry-first 2x optical and 5x digital zoom range. This multi-focal setup enables creators to seamlessly transition from ultra-close detail to wide-angle group shots.
AI then refines each image with remarkable accuracy. The AI Retouch suite intelligently analyses scenes to optimise lighting and shadow. AI Best Expression composites ideal expressions from a burst sequence, ensuring that group photos look their best. Meanwhile, AI Remove clears unwanted distractions without compromising texture or background integrity. It’s a technical showcase of how Huawei’s software and imaging hardware work in seamless harmony.
Performance built for creators
Under the surface, the HUAWEI nova 14 Pro is engineered for endurance and speed. The 5500mAh battery is supported by 100W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo, which intelligently regulates power distribution using AI Charging Temperature Control. This system maintains heat precision to within 0.1°C, ensuring peak charging efficiency without compromising safety. In real-world use, users can achieve a substantial top-up in just minutes, making the device ideal for heavy content creators or gamers on the go.
Connectivity and interaction are equally advanced and AI Gesture Control, which allows for touch-free scrolling, screenshotting, and navigation.
Merging art, technology and dependability
The HUAWEI nova 14 Pro’s 6.78-inch Flawless Quad-curved Display demonstrates Huawei’s expertise in visual engineering. Featuring an LTPO Adaptive Refresh Rate of 1–120Hz and HDR Vivid technology, it adjusts dynamically for smoother transitions and richer contrast. The curved glass is designed for ergonomic comfort and seamless interaction.
Colour reproduction and eye comfort are also top priorities. The AI Eye Comfort Display uses ambient light sensors and pixel-level adjustments to reduce blue light and optimise contrast, providing a 104% brightness improvement in low-light environments while remaining gentle on the eyes.
Every component of the HUAWEI nova 14 Pro has been designed to meet the demands of a fast-paced, mobile-first lifestyle. Its IP65 rating ensures protection against dust and water splashes, while its advanced materials and internal heat dissipation systems maintain consistent performance across tasks. Audio quality benefits from lossless 2.3Mbps sound transmission, providing true-to-source clarity for streaming and calls.
Tap and pay with Swoo
HUAWEI nova 14 Series users with NFC-enabled Huawei devices can now link their Discovery Bank or FNB cards to Swoo Pay and enjoy the convenience of ‘tap to pay’ at any contactless-enabled point of sale.
Customers can access Swoo Pay by downloading the Swoo digital wallet app from the Huawei AppGallery, then simply add their virtual card and follow the on-screen instructions. Once activated, they can enjoy the convenience of tap-to-pay at any contactless point of sale.
Technology that empowers creativity
The HUAWEI nova 14 Pro represents the next evolution of smartphone imaging. One that empowers you to not just take pictures, but to truly Pro Your Portrait.
The HUAWEI nova 14 Series is available in South Africa starting at R12 999 from Huawei’s online platforms or get yours now from just R499 over 36 months and receive promotional gifts worth R6 794. T’s & C’s apply
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series is the latest milestone in the evolution of smartwatch technology, a blend of endurance, intelligence and refined design that represents Huawei’s most advanced wearable to date. Now available in South Africa, it embodies the brand’s “Fashion Forward, Health Forward and Sports Forward” philosophy, bringing together beauty, precision and performance in a single timepiece.
Behind the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 lies a legacy of innovation. Since the launch of the first WATCH GT in 2018, Huawei has been driven by a simple mission: to build a smartwatch that lasts longer, measures smarter and performs better. Six generations later, that commitment has shaped an engineering lineage defined by breakthroughs in battery life, sensor technology and design.
A legacy of design and innovation
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series continues Huawei’s tradition of combining high-end materials with performance-grade durability. The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro leads the line-up, crafted from sapphire glass, an aviation-grade titanium body and a nanocrystal ceramic rear cover. It’s a design that feels strong yet refined, perfectly suited to those who demand both luxury and capability.
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 46 mm features a sportier aesthetic with an octagonal frame and lightweight composite materials, while the GT 6 41 mm introduces an elegant, compact form for slimmer wrists, complete with pivoting loop lugs that naturally contour to the wrist. All three models share the same meticulous attention to detail and feature Huawei’s signature 3000-nit AMOLED display, ensuring crisp clarity in any light.
This generation also introduces the EasyFit 3.0 strap system, making it simple to switch between looks, from woven and leather to fluoroelastomer options, with a single press.
The power of endurance
From the very first GT model, battery life has been a defining feature, and the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 is no exception. Powered by an advanced, high-silicon, stacked, special-shaped battery, it achieves a 65% increase in capacity compared to its predecessor, without adding bulk.
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro and 46 mm editions deliver up to 21 days of battery life on light use and 40 hours in outdoor GPS mode, while the 41 mm edition achieves up to 14 days of typical use or 25 hours in dual-band full-constellation mode. This remains one of its biggest differentiators.
Precision perfected
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series is built around Huawei’s latest Sunflower positioning system, an upgraded six-satellite architecture that improves location accuracy by 20% compared to the previous generation. Using dual-band (L1 + L5) frequencies and intelligent fusion algorithms, it adjusts dynamically to the wearer’s movement.
For sports enthusiasts, the watch supports over 100 workout modes, including dedicated outdoor profiles for cycling, trail running, skiing and golf. The headline feature, Cycling Virtual Power, calculates real-time output using speed, incline and body metrics, eliminating the need for a separate power meter. Combined with FTP (Functional Threshold Power) and virtual cadence tracking, it provides cyclists with professional-level performance insights directly from the wrist.
Runners benefit from grade-adjusted pace algorithms, altitude charts and real-time elevation data, while golfers can enjoy vector mapping and intuitive course visualisation right on the display.
Smarter health intelligence
Huawei’s TruSense system, introduced in the GT 5 Series and now fully evolved, underpins the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6’s health and wellness capabilities. The system integrates multidimensional optical sensors and AI modelling to deliver more accurate readings for heart rate, sleep, stress and emotional wellbeing. It now recognises 12 emotional states, up from three in the previous generation, and provides practical guidance for restoring balance.
Health Insights go a step further by analysing the relationship between sleep, mood, exercise and cardiovascular data, giving users a holistic view of their wellbeing. For those seeking clinical-grade reassurance, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro adds ECG analysis for real-time heart monitoring, while all models include pulse-wave arrhythmia detection certified to CE standards.
Smart living, refined
Beyond fitness and health, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series integrates seamlessly with Huawei, Android and iOS devices via the HUAWEI Health app, supporting notifications, calls, and voice control. The interface has been redesigned for faster interaction, while the watch faces, including geometric, mood-based and animated designs, allow users to personalise their style as easily as their data.
In many ways, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series isn’t about what’s new, it’s about what’s been perfected. Every sensor, every display pixel and every software layer reflects years of continuous innovation.
Available now from R169 per month over 36 months or from R4 999 at selected retailers nationwide.
Samsung Galaxy Ring with Galaxy AI - Jewellery Meets Craft Hands On Video
The future of wearable tech isn’t bulky or distracting; it’s seamlessly integrated, and Samsung’s Galaxy Ring is proof.
From the moment the box arrived, this device felt less like a gadget and more like a piece of personal jewellery — a philosophy that carries through to the experience of wearing and using it, especially with the advanced support of Galaxy AI.
Unboxing Elegance: A Jewel, Not a Device
Unboxing the Galaxy Ring is an event in itself. The packaging is less a tech carton and more a sleek, minimalist jewellery box, hinting immediately at the premium nature of the product.
My Titanium Black Silver size 9 ring model was nestled in its charging case — a compact, clamshell design that is both futuristic and highly practical. The case, with its transparent lid and subtle LED indicators, makes the ritual of charging feel sophisticated.
In the hand, the ring is stunning. Crafted from Grade 5 Titanium, it manages to be incredibly lightweight (ranging from 2.3g to 3.0g depending on size) while still feeling substantial and durable. The design is subtly curved and concave, ensuring it sits comfortably on the finger without the bulkiness often associated with smart rings.
The simple titanium finish is scratch-resistant and gives it a timeless, understated look that easily pairs with anything.
Hands-On: The Freedom of Forgettable Tech
The pairing process was, as expected with modern Samsung devices, instantaneous and frictionless. But the real magic begins when you put it on.
The pairing process was, as expected with modern Samsung devices, instantaneous and frictionless. But the real magic begins when you put it on.
I’ve never worn a health tracker that became so quickly “forgettable.” Unlike a watch that needs to be positioned perfectly or a chest strap that interferes with movement, the Galaxy Ring is truly unobtrusive.
I wore it 24/7—through typing, exercising, showering (it boasts an impressive 10 ATM water resistance), and most importantly, sleeping, something which is so important, even Discovery Health Care has recently emphasized its needs for Vitality and generating Vitality Points.
The comfort during sleep is the single greatest selling point. This is where the Galaxy Ring excels, utilizing its trio of integrated sensors (PPG heart rate, accelerometer, and skin temperature) to gather the most accurate metrics possible from your finger.
Galaxy AI: Beyond Data, Into Insight
The transition from raw data to actionable guidance is where the power of Galaxy AI truly shines. The Galaxy Ring isn’t just measuring; it’s analysing and synthesising.
The key feature is the Energy Score.
Based on a comprehensive analysis of your previous night’s sleep metrics, heart rate variability, and activity, the AI provides a single, easy-to-understand score (out of 100) that tells you how ready your body and mind are for the day. My Energy Score fluctuated drastically based on my rest, providing compelling feedback.
This score is coupled with Wellness Tips, which are personalized recommendations generated by Galaxy AI. It might advise you to opt for a gentle walk instead of an intense gym session on a low-score day, or it might suggest adjusting your evening routine if your sleep latency is too high. This is the difference between data tracking and personalised coaching — the AI acts as your pocket health guide.
Key takeaways separating this from other wearables
Battery Life is a Winner: The promised up to seven-day battery life is essentially accurate, minimizing charging anxiety.
The case provides extra charges, cementing its “set it and forget it” usability.
The Ecosystem Advantage: For anyone already invested in the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, the seamless data integration with Samsung Health and the collaborative benefits of pairing it with a Galaxy Watch are unbeatable.
In conclusion
The Galaxy Ring is more than just a competitor in the smart ring market; it’s a statement about the future of discreet, AI-enhanced wellness. It gives you all the crucial biometric information you need, processed into clear, actionable advice, all wrapped in a premium package you won’t want to take off.
For me, this is just the beginning of an exciting journey into physical well-being
and I’m excited to keep sharing updates along the way.
Watch this space, as the Galaxy Ring by Samsung is more than just tech, it’s exotic tech meeting craft!