By Xolile Hopa 

We recently got behind the wheel of the all-new Lepas L4 Pantera, the flagship model in the range. With bold styling, a long list of standard features, and a price tag of R419,000, the L4 aims to offer plenty of SUV for your money.

From the moment you see it, it’s clear the L4 wants to stand out. Lepas calls its design language “leopard-inspired”, and it’s easy to see why. The sharp “Leopard Eye” LED headlights, bold diamond-pattern grille, and sculpted bodywork give it a confident road presence, while the clean rear design and 17-inch alloy wheels complete its modern, well-balanced look.

Step inside and you’re welcomed by a cabin that feels surprisingly premium for the price. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with a large 13.2-inch portrait infotainment display taking centre stage. The system is intuitive to use and supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice control. Practical touches like a 50W wireless charging pad, an electric sunroof, and ventilated front seats make the cabin feel even more upmarket.

Power comes from a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 108kW and 235Nm of torque. It’s paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. Around town, the engine feels responsive, while on the open road it delivers smooth, confident performance without ever feeling strained.

One of the biggest surprises is just how comfortable the L4 is to drive. The suspension absorbs bumps well, making rough roads far less noticeable, while the overall ride is composed and refined. Whether you’re commuting through traffic or heading out on a weekend trip, the L4 feels relaxed and easy to live with.

Final thoughts

After spending time with the Lepas L4 Pantera, it’s clear that this SUV gets a lot right. It looks modern, offers an impressive list of features, delivers a comfortable driving experience, and represents excellent value for money. It may not be the most powerful SUV in its class, but it doesn’t need to be. Instead, it focuses on providing a well-rounded package that should appeal to buyers looking for style, comfort, and practicality without stretching the budget.