Gayton McKenzie, the South African Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, raised eyebrows recently with his R454,000 expenditure on ground transportation during a visit to Paris. With this sum, he could have comfortably bought a new car in South Africa, as the amount exceeds the average transaction price of a new vehicle in the country. Here’s a look at some appealing cars that fall within this budget, catering to a range of styles and needs.

Cars Gayton McKenzie Could’ve Bought with His Paris Budget

1. Jetour Dashing – R439,900

A relatively new Chinese SUV, the Jetour Dashing offers a sporty look and a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 115kW. It comes with features like 19-inch alloy wheels, synthetic leather seats, and a dual-screen cockpit. The deluxe version even boasts a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting with eight colours, and a 360-degree parking camera for added convenience. Starting at R439,900, this car delivers great value for McKenzie’s budget.

2. Chery Tiggo 7 Pro 1.5T Distinction – R442,900

Another well-equipped Chinese SUV, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, brings a bit of luxury for a modest price of R442,900. It competes with other popular SUVs like the Haval Jolion Pro and Beijing X55. Known for its comfortable interior, high-tech features, and efficient 1.5-litre turbo engine, the Tiggo 7 Pro offers an ideal combination of performance and practicality.

3. Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XS – R443,900

For those preferring established brands and locally produced vehicles, the Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XS is a solid choice at R443,900. Not only does this SUV support local manufacturing, but it also provides Toyota’s legendary reliability. Though the hybrid variant stretches slightly beyond the budget, the standard version is an excellent family-friendly option with ample space and comfort.

4. Suzuki Jimny 5-Door 1.5 GLX AllGrip – R457,000

McKenzie could opt for a rugged and adventure-ready vehicle like the Suzuki Jimny. While it’s compact and not particularly spacious, it’s well-equipped for off-road excursions. The 5-door model features a part-time four-wheel drive system and low-range gearing, making it perfect for those who enjoy venturing into rougher terrains, away from the city hustle.

5. Suzuki Swift Sport – R432,900

For a bit of sporty fun, the Suzuki Swift Sport is an affordable hatchback at R432,900. This car offers a lively driving experience with its lightweight design and turbocharged 1.4-litre engine producing 103kW. Capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in around eight seconds, it’s an enjoyable option for those who prioritize a bit of speed and manoeuvrability in a small package.

6. Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI Life – R431,400

The Volkswagen Polo is a popular choice in South Africa, and at R431,400, the 1.0 TSI Life model fits right into McKenzie’s budget. Though it lacks the performance of the GTI, which costs R567,000, the Polo TSI offers practicality and fuel efficiency, appealing to both young professionals and city drivers.

7. Used BMW M240i Coupe (2018) – R445,000

For a rear-wheel drive coupe that’s perfect for enthusiasts, a 2018 BMW M240i Coupe can be found on the used market for around R445,000. With its powerful engine and sporty handling, it would provide McKenzie with a fun driving experience and a touch of luxury, suitable for his interest in promoting motorsports.

Each of these options presents an intriguing alternative to McKenzie’s Paris transportation costs, highlighting that with a budget of R454,000, he could have invested in a brand-new vehicle with lasting value.