Facelifted Suzuki Baleno revealed (with new engine)

The facelifted Suzuki Baleno hatchback has been revealed in India, sporting not only a few design tweaks but also a new 3-cylinder engine familiar from the Swift…

Refreshed Baleno unwrapped in India
Update includes new front-end design
Indian-spec version switches to 3-pot

Meet the facelifted Suzuki Baleno. Unveiled in India where it’s produced by Maruti Suzuki, the refreshed version of the 2nd-generation hatchback features not only a handful of exterior design changes but also the latest “Z Series” 3-cylinder engine familiar from the Swift and Dzire.

Yes, while the current Baleno – which arrived in South Africa back in mid-2022 – employs the brand’s naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine in Mzansi (rather than the K12N mill used in the outgoing version in India), the updated model switches to the latest Z12E 3-pot that debuted in the Swift.

*While the front-end design is new, rear styling appears largely unchanged.*

In the freshly revealed Indian-spec Baleno, this likewise atmospheric 1.2-litre petrol motor generates 61 kW and 112 Nm, with buyers offered the choice of a 5-speed manual gearbox or an automated manual transmission (AMT) featuring the same number of cogs.

Of course, those peak outputs are down on the 77 kW and 138 Nm produced by the current SA-spec Baleno’s K15B powerplant. Still, it’s worth keeping in mind that we don’t yet know if the hatchback will switch to the Z12E in South Africa or stick with the more powerful K15B.

*Note the ADAS radar module in the centre of the grille.*

What else does the Baleno’s mid-cycle update include? Well, the most significant styling changes come up front, where the sub-4-metre hatchback gains a new design for its grille, front bumper and foglamps. Interestingly, the Suzuki badge moves to just above the grille.

From what we can tell, much of the rear styling carries over unchanged, as does the alloy-wheel design (though the hatchback does now adopt a sharkfin antenna). It’s a similar case in the cabin, where the dashboard appears largely untouched, though the Indian market does gain new features like wireless smartphone charging and ventilated front seats.

*Little appears to have changed in the cabin.*

While 6 airbags and electronic stability control are again standard, the Indian-spec Baleno gains a raft of Level 2 advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) functions, including automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control and high-beam assist.

As a reminder, the current Baleno portfolio in South Africa comprises 4 derivatives, priced from R269 900 to R341 900. Over the opening 8 months of 2026, Suzuki Auto SA has registered 3 222 units of the Baleno – the model on which the Toyota Starlet is based – making it the local division’s 4th most popular product (after the Swift, Fronx and Ertiga).

Find a used Suzuki Baleno on Cars.co.za!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What engine update does the facelifted Suzuki Baleno receive?

A: In India, the refreshed Baleno switches to Suzuki’s new 1.2-litre “Z Series” 3-cylinder engine (Z12E) from the Swift, producing 61 kW and 112 Nm, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT).

Q: What exterior styling changes are included in the Suzuki Baleno mid-cycle update?

A: The facelift introduces a redesigned front grille, new front bumper, updated foglamps, a repositioned Suzuki badge above the grille and a new sharkfin antenna, while the rear styling and alloy wheels remain largely unchanged.

Q: What new features and technology have been added to the updated Baleno?

A: The updated Indian-spec model gains Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) — including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control — alongside interior additions like ventilated front seats and wireless smartphone charging.

Renault Duster posts best SA sales month since early 2022

The Renault Duster registered its best sales month in SA in well over 4 years after the brand switched from the European-sourced model to the sharper-priced Indian-built version…

SA recently switched to Chennai-built Duster
Sales quickly hit level last seen in early 2022
Latest version starts R150k lower than before

Renault South Africa’s decision to switch from the Romanian-built Duster to the far more affordable Indian-made version has paid immediate dividends for the company, with August 2026 seeing the nameplate clock its highest single-month sales figure in well over 4 years.

Yes, according to figures reported to industry-representative body Naamsa, the Motus-distributed French brand registered 249 units of the Duster in August. While we don’t know the exact split between the outgoing Mioveni-built version and the new Chennai-sourced model, it’s clear the bulk of the volume came via the latter.

*New Indian-built version on top and Romanian-made iteration at the bottom.*

According to our records, that total is the Duster’s highest figure since March 2022 and furthermore represents a whopping 507.3% increase over July 2026‘s effort of 41 units. It also marks the first time since March 2025 that the Duster has breached the 3-figure barrier in Mzansi.

As a reminder, Renault SA launched the Indian-made Duster in the 2nd week of August, with the local line-up comprising 5 derivatives compared to the outgoing portfolio’s 3 variants. While the latter’s starting price was R489 999, the latest version from India starts at R339 999 – making it a considerable R150 000 more affordable.

*The Indian-built version is considerably more affordable in SA.*

The Romanian-made line-up launched in Mzansi in March 2025, with 2 of the 3 derivatives powered by a turbocharged 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (113 kW/250 Nm) driving the front axle via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The top-spec 4WD version (96 kW/230 Nm) used a turbocharged 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol unit featuring a mild-hybrid system and a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Now, the rejigged range kicks off a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine (74 kW/160 Nm) powering the front wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission. The 4 remaining (likewise front-wheel-drive) derivatives each employ a version of the 1.3-litre turbopetrol 4-pot (now making 116 kW/260 Nm), offered with either a 6-speed manual cog-swapper or a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.

*The Indian-built Duster also gains a completely overhauled dashboard design.*

Though not yet officially confirmed by Renault SA, Cars.co.za understands that a new 1.8-litre traditional hybrid – complete with 2 electric motors drawing from a 1.4 kWh battery pack, resulting in system outputs of 80 kW and 172 Nm – has been pencilled in a local introduction in the opening half of 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why did Renault Duster sales spike in South Africa in August 2026?

A: Sales increased by over 500% to 249 units (the highest monthly total since March 2022) following Renault SA’s switch from the Romanian-built model to a significantly more affordable Indian-sourced version from Chennai.

Q: How much cheaper is the new Indian-built Renault Duster compared to the outgoing Romanian-made model?

A: The starting price for the new Indian-built Duster range drops by R150 000, kicking off at R339 999 compared to the outgoing Romanian-built model’s entry point of R489 999.

Q: What engine and transmission options are featured in the updated Indian-built Renault Duster range?

A: The line-up includes an entry-level 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol (74 kW/160 Nm) paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, alongside a 1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol (116 kW/260 Nm) mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Tata Osprey (2026) Price & Specs

The Tata Osprey has officially launched in South Africa, arriving as the 5th model in the Indian brand’s passenger-vehicle range. Here’s what it costs in Mzansi…

Nexon arrives in SA as Osprey
4 derivatives offered at launch
Local range starts at R249 900

The Tata Osprey – a sub-4-metre crossover known as the Nexon in its domestic market of India – has officially launched in South Africa, touching down as the 5th model in the Mumbai-based brand’s passenger-vehicle range.

As a reminder, the Tata brand returned to South Africa’s passenger-vehicle space in September 2025, locally distributed by Motus. The Indian marque relaunched in Mzansi with a quartet of contenders – the Tiago, Punch, Curvv and Harrier.

*The Osprey name is unique to the SA market.*

For the record, the Osprey is by no means a new model, with production of the Nexon having started in India way back in 2017, nearly a decade ago. However, this small front-wheel-drive crossover did receive facelifts in both 2020 and 2023, with the latest version now available in SA.

The Osprey features what Tata describes as a “unique naming convention” for the local market . It’s interesting to note the Nexon’s internal codename ahead of its global reveal back in 2016 was, in fact, “Osprey”.

*The entry-level Smart+ derivative, featuring steel wheels and hubcaps.*

At launch in South Africa, the Tata Osprey portfolio comprises 4 derivatives, with prices ranging from R249 900 to R329 900. As such, there’s significant overlap with the smaller Punch, which currently has bookends of R244 900 and R339 900.

While the Punch is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine, all variants in the Osprey portfolio instead feature the Indian firm’s turbocharged 1.2-litre 3-pot, which offers peak outputs of 88 kW and 170 Nm (just as it does in the Curvv).

*A look at the manual-equipped Smart+ derivative’s cabin.*

The base Osprey 1.2T Smart+ 5MT (R249 900) comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Standard features for this entry-level variant include 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, a 7.0-inch touchscreen (with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), LED headlamps, rear parking sensors and 16-inch steel wheels (with hubcaps).

Next up is the Osprey 1.2T Smart+ 7DCT, priced from R279 900 and featuring a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Osprey 1.2T Creative 7DCT comes in at R309 900 and adds items like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, rear air vents, cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, alloy wheels and roof rails.

*The interior of the flagship Creative+ PS variant.*

Finally, the Osprey 1.2T Creative+ PS 7DCT tops the range at R329 900, set apart by automatic headlamps, LED taillamps, rain-sensing wipers, a panoramic sunroof (hence the “PS” in its name), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, keyless entry, push-button start, front parking sensors and a tyre-pressure monitoring system.

The 5-seater crossover measures 3 995 mm long and has a wheelbase of 2 498 mm, while the ground clearance is listed as 208 mm and the luggage compartment rated to swallow 382 litres. In South Africa, it’s pitched against likewise Indian-built models of similar dimensions, such as the Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger.

What does the Tata Osprey cost in South Africa?

DERIVATIVE	PRICE
Osprey 1.2T Smart+ 5MT	R249 900
Osprey 1.2T Smart+ 7DCT	R279 900
Osprey 1.2T Creative 7DCT	R309 900
Osprey 1.2T Creative+ PS 7DCT	R329 900

The prices above include a 5-year/125 000 km warranty and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the Tata Osprey and how much does it cost in South Africa?

A: The Tata Osprey is a sub-4-metre crossover (known as the Nexon in India) that serves as the 5th passenger model in Tata’s local line-up. South African pricing ranges from R249 900 for the entry-level 1.2T Smart+ 5MT to R329 900 for the range-topping 1.2T Creative+ PS 7DCT.

Q: What engine and transmission options power the Tata Osprey in SA?

A: All 4 derivatives in the local Osprey line-up are powered by a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 88 kW and 170 Nm of torque. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual on the base trim or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) on higher grades.

Q: What key features and dimensions does the Tata Osprey offer?

A: Measuring 3 995 mm in length with 208 mm of ground clearance and 382 litres of boot space, standard features across the range include 6 airbags and electronic stability control. Higher-spec models add features such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 360-degree camera system and a panoramic sunroof.

Does fitting a car tracker really reduce your insurance premium in South Africa?

Some financed vehicles are required to have a tracking device fitted. While this protects the bank’s asset, it also lowers the insurer’s risk, often leading to lower monthly premiums. But is a discount guaranteed, and how much can you actually save?

For all the excitement of getting a fresh set of wheels and showing the Joneses next door who’s boss, the administrative compliance attached to a new purchase can be a real headache. Like the extra cash you have to fork out for mandatory comprehensive insurance. Or, having a tracking device fitted as part of the latter package, which sets you back even more cash. Is it possible, though, that this grudge purchase can actually put a few rands back in your pocket every month?

How much can a car tracker save you on your monthly insurance premium?

Given the out-of-control cost of living plaguing most South Africans, most of us can do with some good news.

Because your new car will likely be easier to recover after it’s stolen, an approved tracking device may result in a lower premium, but in truth the saving varies by insurer, vehicle, risk profile and policy. Here’s where the smart savings lie: the reduction in your premium absorbs some of the cost of the tracker’s monthly subscription.

On popular theft targets such as keyless-entry-equipped double-cabs, certain SUVs and hatchbacks, the resulting premium saving may even offset the tracker’s monthly subscription.

Depending on the type of tracker or installed telematics, additional layers of data detailing driver behaviour, such as cornering speed, throttle and braking application, are also available. As an aside, while the info is useful for fleet managers, such opt-in behavioural add-ons raise privacy issues that every owner should consider.

When is a tracking device mandatory for South African car insurance?

Some financed vehicles are required to have a tracker, particularly higher-risk vehicles.

It’s also no secret that South Africa features several hijacking hotspots. If you live in high-risk areas in Gauteng and KZN, and drive vehicles identified as a high risk for theft, the fitment of a tracker (in some cases 2 per vehicle) is a non-negotiable insurance requirement.

If your policy schedule lists a vehicle tracker as mandatory, your failure to fit one or maintain an active subscription will likely see your insurer repudiating any theft claims.

Mandatory rules: Will any tracking device qualify for an insurance discount?

Right, you see yourself as a bit of a bargain hunter. You hate paying for your vehicle tracker because you think it’s unnecessary. And the stuff is often overpriced by colluding installers, right?

Temu, here you come.

Wrong … possibly. It’s important to make sure the device meets your insurer’s requirements.

Not every GPS device sold online will satisfy an insurer’s security requirements. Depending on the vehicle and policy, the insurer may specify an approved tracking provider, a particular type or category of stolen-vehicle-recovery device, or approved fitment.

The Motor Vehicle Security Association of South Africa (VESA) says its stamp of approval involves an SABS-compliant product, installation by a VESA member in accordance with VESA specifications, and a current VESA certificate.

So before buying a tracker, check your policy wording or ask your insurer which devices and installation arrangements it accepts. And keep the installation or VESA certificate as proof of compliance.

South African vehicle tracker comparison: Pricing & insurance suitability

Tracker brand	Indicative monthly price	Typical offering	Best for
Cartrack	R149 – R260	GPS tracking, recovery and telematics options.	High-theft-risk models and cash-back telematics programmes.
Tracker	From R139	Stolen-vehicle recovery (SVR), tracking and various safety services.	Everyday suburban drivers looking for balanced coverage.
Netstar	R89 – R199	SVR, jamming detection, tracking and telematics depending on package.	Vehicles parked in high-risk areas or signal-jamming hotspots.
Beame	R99	Wireless SVR.	Entry-level cars needing low-cost SVR.

The catch: Telematics and the privacy trade-off

Modern telematics trackers can continuously log driving behaviour, including speeding, braking severity and trip patterns.

Before opting into a behavioural discount programme, these are the factors you should be taking into account.

Constant monitoring: You are giving up personal information and real-time driving data.

Data privacy: Does the provider adhere to South African POPIA regulations? Who sees your location history?

Punitive scoring: Adherence results in high scores, but bad driving can trigger lost discounts or higher excess fees. This limits the system’s appeal to owners of high-performance vehicles. Incidentally, even if the latter type is driven in suitably safe environments such as racetracks, standard comprehensive insurance excludes track day damage.

Does having a tracker lower your excess if your vehicle is stolen?

Not quite.

If a stolen car is not recovered, many South African insurers apply a hefty excess plus an additional one for hijacking and theft. Depending on the insurer and policy wording, having an approved and active tracker may result in a theft or hijacking excess being reduced or waived.

The greater benefit of a correctly fitted and working tracker lies in how GPS logs assist with speedier recovery and related evidence during investigations, leading to quicker asset recovery and overall case resolution.

To ensure this remains the case, keep your tracker subscription active and the device battery healthy. Any deviation from its basic operation could see excess waivers being revoked and theft claims repudiated.

The four key elements that should be in place:

An approved tracking device and compliant installation.
Installation certificate submitted to the insurer.
Knowledge of your policy schedule: is your tracker a voluntary discount feature or a mandatory requirement?
An active subscription. Up-to-date payments, with no bounced debit orders.

A tracking device can help reduce the risk of vehicle theft and may qualify you for a lower insurance premium. But not every insurer offers a discount; the saving varies from one policy to another; and on some high-risk vehicles, a tracker may be a requirement for insurance cover rather than an optional way to save money.

Ultimately, treating a car tracker purely as a grudge compliance purchase misses the bigger picture. When chosen wisely and kept active, it shifts from an annoying monthly debit order into an integral hedge designed to protect your asset, unlocking legitimate premium savings, and providing peace of mind when the worst happens.

Car theft: What to do when your vehicle is stolen

How to file an insurance claim if your car is stolen

Is your car insured against unexpected risks?

Tiggo 4 nips at Vivo’s heels! SA’s best-selling cars in August 2026

The VW Polo Vivo retained the title of SA’s best-selling passenger car in August 2026, but the Chery Tiggo 4 Cross was a mere 54 units behind. Here are all the figures…

SA-built Polo Vivo retains first place
Tiggo 4 Cross posts highest total yet
Ertiga climbs 2 rankings to 7th spot
Starlet Cross returns to the top 10
Polo hatch makes top 15 appearance

In August 2026, South Africa’s total new-vehicle sales increased 11.4% year on year to 57 898 units, with the local new passenger-vehicle market growing 11.6% to 41 216 units. So, which passenger cars were top of the sales charts in Mzansi last month?

Well, before we dive into the top 10, it’s worth noting rental sales accounted for a substantial 17.2% (or 7 086 units) of the passenger-vehicle market’s total for August. A further 468 units were sold to government, while 982 units were reported as so-called “single” registrations (vehicles the respective brands kept for their own use).

Chery Tiggo 4 Cross right on VW Polo Vivo’s tail

Though the Volkswagen Polo Vivo retained the title of SA’s best-selling passenger car in August 2026, the Kariega-built hatchback finished just 54 units clear of its nearest rival. In the end, local registrations of the Polo Vivo – excluding 28 units of the Xpress-badged panel van sold in the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) segment – declined 7.4% month on month to 2 351 units. As many as 583 units were sold via the rental channel.

Meanwhile, the Chery Tiggo 4 Cross (note that the Tiggo 4 Pro has quietly been put out to pasture in South Africa) was right on the Polo Vivo’s tail, ending the month on a total of 2 297 units – some 8.9% higher than its July 2026 effort. According to our records, that’s the Tiggo 4 range’s best-ever single-month total in Mzansi, aided by some 245 sales to the rental industry.

As was the case in July, the Suzuki Swift completed the passenger-vehicle podium in August, enjoying a 12.3% month-on-month increase in sales to reach 2 152 units (the 3rd time this year the hatchback has breached the 2 000-unit mark). A considerable 985 of those registrations – or some 45.8% of the nameplate’s total – represented sales to rental buyers.

Corolla Cross, Grand i10 and Starlet hold steady

Though local sales of the Toyota Corolla Cross dipped 8.4% month on month to 1 489 units, the Prospecton-built crossover retained 4th in August. Similarly, the Hyundai Grand i10 – including both hatchback and sedan body styles – experienced a 3.4% month-on-month drop in registrations to 1 432 units (excluding 29 units of the Cargo-badged panel van sold in the LCV space) but stayed in 5th place.

The Toyota Starlet, too, kept hold of the 6th position it grabbed in July, despite a 6.5% decline in sales to 1 359 units (including 556 registrations via the rental channel). For the sake of interest, the Suzuki Baleno on which the Indian-built Starlet hatchback is based ended August on 456 units.

Ertiga climbs as Starlet Cross returns to top 10

In August 2026, the Suzuki Ertiga enjoyed a 21.4% month-on-month surge in sales to reach 1 317 units, seeing this Indian-built MPV climb 2 rankings to 7th. Meanwhile, the GWM Haval Jolion (1 261 units) remained in 8th position, despite an 11.4% month-on-month improvement in sales.

The Toyota Starlet Cross returned to the top 10 (at the expense of its Urban Cruiser sibling) in August, ranking 9th with a total of 1 015 units – some 26.4% higher than its July figure. That saw the Suzuki Fronx – the model on which the Starlet Cross is based – fall 3 spots to 10th, with registrations slipping 18.1% month on month to 970 units.

For the record, models that fell just outside the top 10 in August 2026 included the aforementioned Toyota Urban Cruiser (871 units) as well as the Toyota Vitz (871 units), Volkswagen Polo hatch (837 units), Omoda C5 (823 units) and Jetour T2 (802 units).

SA’s 10 best-selling passenger vehicles in August 2026

1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo (excluding LCV) – 2 351 units

2. Chery Tiggo 4 Cross – 2 297 units

3. Suzuki Swift – 2 152 units

4. Toyota Corolla Cross – 1 489 units

5. Hyundai Grand i10 (excluding LCV) – 1 432 units

6. Toyota Starlet – 1 359 units

7. Suzuki Ertiga – 1 317 units

8. GWM Haval Jolion – 1 261 units

9. Toyota Starlet Cross – 1 015 units

10. Suzuki Fronx – 970 units

BMW iX3 (2026) Price & Specs

Fresh off its 2026 World Car Awards victory, the new BMW iX3 has officially arrived in South Africa. Here’s what the “Neue Klasse” fully electric X3 will cost you in Mzansi…

Fully electric iX3 quietly docks in South Africa
iX3 50 xDrive available from launch in Mzansi
Rear-wheel-drive iX3 40 coming in Q1 2027

The new BMW iX3 has officially touched down in South Africa, just a few months after it bagged the 2026 World Car of the Year award. So, what will the “Neue Klasse” fully electric version of the X3 cost you in Mzansi?

Well, while our original report listed only the iX3 50 xDrive (available locally in both M Sport and M Sport Pro guise, with the former priced from R1 690 000 and the latter coming in from R1 720 000), BMW Group SA has now confirmed the rear-wheel-drive (single motor) iX3 40 will arrive in SA in the opening quarter of 2027, with a starting price of R1 498 000.

As a reminder, the new NA5-series iX3 is a so-called “Neue Klasse” model, riding on an all-new platform rather than sharing the G45-series X3’s CLAR architecture. Furthermore, the iX3 is produced in Hungary, while various derivatives in the X3 range are manufactured at BMW’s Plant Rosslyn here in South Africa.

With the 235 kW/500 Nm iX3 40 still a few months away, let’s take a look at the iX3 50 xDrive, which is powered by a pair of electric motors (an electrically excited synchronous motor at the rear and an asynchronous item at the front), which together generate 345 kW and 645 Nm. That’s enough for a claimed 0-100 kph time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 kph.

The high-voltage battery integrated into the vehicle architecture (as what BMW describes as “a structural component”) has a usable energy content of 108.7 kWh, which the Munich-based brand’s claims enables a range of “up to 805 km” on the WLTP cycle (or up to 820 km using the NEDC standard).

The German company says a maximum charging rate of 400 kW allows users to fill the iX3 with enough energy at an 800V direct current (DC) rapid charging station to add up to 372 km of range in 10 minutes. The high-voltage battery can theoretically charge from 10% to 80% capacity in 21 minutes, according to the international press material.

For the record, the M Sport Pro package is set apart by its illuminated kidney grille (with a black surround) as well as black finishes for the side-mirror caps and rear diffuser element. Vehicles specified with the M Sport Pro package furthermore gain the M Sport braking system (with red brake callipers) plus some upgrades inside.

Read our extensive International Launch Review of the new BMX iX3 for details on the newcomer’s exterior dimensions, styling, cabin equipment, driving dynamics and more…

What does the new BMW iX3 cost in South Africa?

DERIVATIVE	PRICE
BMW iX3 40 (coming in Q1 2027)	R1 498 000
BMW iX3 50 xDrive M Sport	R1 690 000
BMW iX3 50 xDrive M Sport Pro	R1 720 000

The prices above includes a 2-year/unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty (likely plus an 8-year/100 000 km battery warranty) and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the starting price for the new “Neue Klasse” BMW iX3 in South Africa?

A: At launch, the BMW iX3 lineup opens with the iX3 50 xDrive M Sport priced from R1 690 000 (R1 720 000 in M Sport Pro guise). The entry-level, rear-wheel-drive iX3 40 is scheduled to arrive in Q1 2027 with a lower starting price of R1 498 000.

Q: What are the performance and range specifications for the BMW iX3 50 xDrive?

A: The dual-motor iX3 50 xDrive produces 345 kW and 645 Nm of torque, completing the 0–100 km/h sprint in 4.9 seconds. Powered by a 108.7 kWh battery pack, it offers a claimed driving range of up to 805 km on the WLTP cycle.

Q: How fast can the new BMW iX3 charge?

A: Featuring 800V technology and supporting DC fast-charging rates of up to 400 kW, the iX3 can add up to 372 km of range in just 10 minutes, or replenish its battery from 10% to 80% capacity in approximately 21 minutes.

New Mitsubishi Pajero revealed (and pencilled in for SA)

The new Mitsubishi Pajero has finally been revealed, switching to a ladder-frame chassis and poised to eventually replace the Pajero Sport in South Africa…

Pajero reborn after 5-year pause
Switches to ladder-frame chassis
Single-turbo 2.4-litre turbodiesel

After a 5-year hiatus, the Mitsubishi Pajero is back. The Japanese brand’s SUV has switched to a thoroughly updated version of the Triton‘s ladder-frame chassis (as opposed to a monocoque body with a built-in frame) and is poised to replace the Pajero Sport as well.

And, based on last year’s comments from Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, the 5th-generation Pajero – set to be offered in 3-row, 7-seater form – is very much on the cards for Mzansi. Though local launch timing has yet to be confirmed, we’d speculate the newcomer will arrive at some point in 2027.

Billed as Mitsubishi’s “new-generation flagship model”, the fresh-faced Pajero will be produced in Thailand alongside the Triton. The newcomer measures 4 920 mm from front to back, making it around 95 mm longer than the outgoing Pajero Sport. Its width comes in at 1 925 mm, while the front and rear tracks measure 1 630 mm (and the wheelbase some 2 870 mm).

When equipped with 20-inch alloys wheels, the ground clearance is 230 mm. Mitsubishi quotes an approach angle of 30.4 degrees, a breakover angle of 22.6 degrees and a departure angle of 25.8 degrees. The company promises the new model’s “highly rigid” ladder frame and “long-travel suspension” will help deliver “outstanding performance over challenging terrain”.

So, what about the powertrain? Well, Mitsubishi’s head office has confirmed the new Pajero will be powered by a “specially developed” version of the familiar 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. Interestingly, this latest iteration features a “wide-range single variable geometry turbocharger” rather than the bi-turbo set-up employed by the top-spec Triton.

Still, according to the Japanese company, the updated mill makes 150 kW and up to 480 Nm – matching the Triton Bi-Turbo’s peak power and exceeding its maximum torque by 10 Nm. The engine is paired with a “newly developed” 8-speed automatic transmission as standard, along with Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II system.

Inside, you’ll find a pair of 14.3-inch horizontal displays (one featuring a triple-gauge “multi-meter” layout ostensibly referencing previous generations of the Pajero) and a 12-speaker Yamaha sound system. Mitsubishi says the 2nd row of seats features a sliding range of 150 mm as well as a tumble mechanism, while the 3rd row provides “ample headroom, even for adults”.

Production of the Pajero (known in some markets as the Montero) started way back in 1981. After 4 generations, the nameplate was put out to pasture in 2021. In South Africa, the Pajero was officially discontinued towards the end of that year, with Mitsubishi Motors SA marking the occasion with a limited-edition Pajero “Legend 100” package.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What underpinnings and chassis configuration does the new-generation Mitsubishi Pajero use?

A: Moving away from the unibody/monocoque structure of its predecessor, the 5th-generation Pajero utilises an updated heavy-duty ladder-frame chassis closely based on the latest Triton platform.

Q: What are the engine and transmission specifications for the reborn Mitsubishi Pajero?

A: The Pajero is powered by a specially developed 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine featuring a single variable-geometry turbocharger, generating 150 kW and 480 Nm. Power is delivered via a new 8-speed automatic transmission and Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II system.

Q: How does the new Pajero compare in size to the outgoing Pajero Sport, and when is it expected in South Africa?

A: Measuring 4 920 mm in length, the new Pajero is around 95 mm longer than the Pajero Sport. While local release timing is unconfirmed, the 3-row flagship SUV is expected to arrive in South Africa during 2027 to eventually replace the Pajero Sport.

No stopping Hilux! SA’s best-selling bakkies in August 2026

In August 2026, the Hilux comfortably retained first place on the list of SA’s best-selling bakkies, despite the Ranger posting its best effort since September 2024…

Hilux way out in front despite 7.4% dip
Ranger posts highest figure in 2 years
Nissan Navara climbs back to 8th place
Bolero almost cracks top 10 in August
Tasman sales dwindle to just 17 units

In August 2026, sales in South Africa’s total new-vehicle market increased 11.4% year on year to 57 898 units, with the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) segment growing 11.0% year on year to 13 727 units. But what happened on the list of SA’s best- and worst-selling bakkies?

Well, local registrations of the Toyota Hilux dipped 7.4% month on month to 3 881 units (including 494 sales via the rental channel) off a 2026-high in July. But the Prospecton-built bakkie range – which currently comprises a mix of 8th- and 9th-generation derivatives – nevertheless easily retained first place in August 2026.

*The Ranger hit its highest single-month total since September 2024.*

That said, the Ford Ranger registered its highest single-month total since September 2024, with sales of the Silverton-made model (plus those of the Thai-built Raptor) increasing 15.0% month on month to 2 373 units. As such, the 2nd-placed Ranger created some breathing space ahead of the Struandale-produced Isuzu D-Max, sales of which increased 1.8% month on month to 2 005 units (including 327 purchases by government).

Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal-assembled Mahindra Pik Up (down 10.1% month on month to 612 units) retained 4th position, with the GWM P-Series (up 9.7% month on month to 588 units) once more rounding out the top 5 and again ranking as Mzansi’s most popular fully imported bakkie in August.

Sixth place again went to the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 (434 units; down 6.7% month on month), while the locally built Volkswagen Amarok retained 7th position in August 2026, reaching a total of 351 units – a marginal 0.3% decrease (or just a single unit) on July’s effort.

Interestingly, the Nissan Navara – local production of which ended in Rosslyn in May 2026, when Chery took over the plant – was the only bakkie in the top 10 to climb in August, moving up a single spot to 8th as sales increased 35.6% month on month (admittedly off a low base in July) to 293 units.

ALSO READ: New Mahindra Lifestyler locked in for SA

As such, the JAC T-Series – which includes the T6, T8 and T9 – returned to 9th position, with 246 units (down 3.1% month on month) registered. Though the Foton Tunland suffered a 24.4% month-on-month decline to 158 units, this Chinese bakkie just about managed to keep its top-10 place in August.

Bakkies outside the top 10 in August 2026

Mahindra Bolero Maxx — *The Bolero (seen here in Maxx guise) climbed 5 places to 11th in August.*

So, which bakkies didn’t make the top 10 last month? Well, the Mahindra Bolero (now available in Maxx guise) narrowly missed out on a spot, ending August 2026 on 154 units. And the Peugeot Landtrek (133 units), JMC Vigus (130 units), BYD Shark 6 (127 units) and LDV T60 (120 units) – all of which are sourced from China – weren’t far behind.

Meanwhile, the Changan Hunter (23 units) ranked 16th in August, a single unit ahead of the Mitsubishi Triton (22 units). With just 17 units sold, the Kia Tasman posted its lowest figure since launch, though the South Korean firm’s bakkie stayed ahead of the LDV Terron 9 (8 units). Finally, zero examples of the Jeep Gladiator were sold last month.

Bakkie sales in South Africa for August 2026

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 881 units

2. Ford Ranger – 2 373 units

3. Isuzu D-Max – 2 005 units

4. Mahindra Pik Up – 612 units

5. GWM P-Series – 588 units

6. Toyota Land Cruiser 79 – 434 units

7. Volkswagen Amarok – 351 units

8. Nissan Navara – 293 units

9. JAC T-Series – 246 units

10. Foton Tunland – 158 units

11. Mahindra Bolero – 154 units

12. Peugeot Landtrek – 133 units

13. JMC Vigus – 130 units

14. BYD Shark 6 – 127 units

15. LDV T60 – 120 units

16. Changan Hunter – 23 units

17. Mitsubishi Triton – 22 units

18. Kia Tasman – 17 units

19. LDV Terron 9 – 8 units

20. Jeep Gladiator – 0 unit

Ford hits 5-year high! SA’s new-vehicle sales in August 2026

In August 2026, South Africa’s new-vehicle market recorded its 23rd straight month of year-on-year growth, with Ford climbing to 4th place on the back of its highest sales in over 5 years…

New-vehicle sales up 11.4% year-on-year in August
Exports decline 11.9% year on year to 35 091 units
Ford posts highest total in over 5 years to grab 4th
Chery hits record figure to again rank ahead of GWM
Tata Motors PV SA breaks into top 15 for first time

In August 2026, sales in South Africa’s new-vehicle market increased 11.4% year on year to 57 898 units, representing the local industry’s 23rd consecutive month of year-on-year growth as well as the 2nd-highest total of the year (after March 2026). For the record, August’s showing was also 0.3% higher than July 2026’s effort.

In contrast, however, new-vehicle exports from South Africa dropped 11.9% year on year to 35 091 units, a result that industry-representative body Naamsa said reinforced the “need to strengthen industrial competitiveness and translate improving domestic demand into local production, localisation, investment and employment”.

According to Naamsa, an estimated 81.8% of August 2026’s total reported domestic figure of 57 898 units represented sales via the dealership channel, while 13.4% were sales to the new-vehicle rental industry, 2.4% to government and 2.4% to industry corporate fleets.

Registrations in Mzansi’s new passenger-vehicle market increased 11.6% year on year to 41 216 units (with rental sales accounting for a significant 17.2% of that total) in August. Meanwhile, local sales of new light-commercial vehicles (LCVs) grew 11.0% year on year to 13 727 units.

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Meanwhile, Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), pointed out that though the “rental industry made an important contribution” to overall sales, dealers also “enjoyed a positive month” in August.

“Customers are asking more detailed questions about fuel consumption, finance, insurance, servicing, warranties and the products available to protect their vehicles over longer ownership periods. This indicates that the buying process is maturing,” Cohen suggested.

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Thanda Sithole, Senior Economist at FNB and WesBank, said August’s growth came against an affordability backdrop that remained mixed, with relatively stable financing conditions supporting demand while rising fuel costs continued to reshape the overall affordability equation for vehicle ownership.

“August provided a relatively supportive environment for vehicle demand, particularly for consumers. Inflation moderated to 4.3% in July from 5.0% in June, while the repo rate remained at 7.00%, with prime at 10.50%. Greater stability in both inflation and interest rates can give households more certainty when considering a significant, multi-year financial commitment such as purchasing a vehicle,” Sithole explained.

New-vehicle sales summary for August 2026

Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 57 898 units increased by 11.4% (5 938 units) compared to August 2025.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 41 216 units increased by 11.6% (4 269 units) compared to August 2025.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 13 727 units increased by 11.0% (1 358 units) compared to August 2025.
Export sales of 35 091 units decreased by 11.9% (4 742 units) compared to August 2025.

10 best-selling automakers in SA in August 2026

Chery Tiggo Cross — *Chery SA again hit a record sales high.*

In August 2026, Toyota SA Motors unsurprisingly again ranked as South Africa’s top-selling automaker (including Lexus and Hino), recording a figure of 13 814 units for a 23.9% market share. Though that total was down 2.3% compared to July, it nevertheless represented the Japanese giant’s 2nd-best showing of the year thus far.

Similarly, Suzuki Auto SA registered its 2nd-highest tally of 2026, with August’s effort coming in at 6 505 units – an 8.5% month-on-month increase. That saw the Hamamatsu-based brand comfortably retain 2nd place ahead of Volkswagen Group Africa (including Audi), which completed the podium despite a 2.3% month-on-month decline to 5 668 units.

Meanwhile, Ford Motor Company of SA climbed a place to 4th in August, breaching the 3 000-unit mark for the first time in 2026. In the end, the Blue Oval brand registered 3 202 units, a month-on-month improvement of 9.4% and – according to our records – its highest single-month total since way back in June 2021.

That saw Hyundai Automotive SA fall a position to 5th, with local sales slipping a marginal 0.8% month on month to 3 034 units. After registering a record total in July, Chery SA exceeded that figure in August (though remained in 6th place), growing a further 2.0% to finish on 2 763 units.

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As such, fellow Chinese automaker GWM SA again had to settle for 7th, despite sales increasing 3.6% month on month to 2 594 units. Isuzu Motors SA (2 531 units; up 3.9% month on month), Jetour SA (1 952 units; down 4.0% month on month) and Kia SA (1 783 units; down 7.1% month on month) again rounded out the top 10.

So, which automakers fell just outside the top 10 in August? Well, Renault SA (1 702 units) climbed 2 rankings to 11th, finishing ahead of the again 12th-placed Mahindra SA (1 563 units). Omoda & Jaecoo SA (1 305 units) fell 2 places to 13th, while BMW Group SA (on a Naamsa-estimated 1 299 units, including the Mini brand) held steady in 14th. Interestingly, Tata Motors PV SA cracked the top 15 for the first time, with 853 units registered in August.

1. Toyota – 13 814 units

2. Suzuki – 6 505 units

3. Volkswagen Group – 5 668 units

4. Ford – 3 202 units

5. Hyundai – 3 034 units

6. Chery – 2 763 units

7. GWM – 2 594 units

8. Isuzu – 2 531 units

9. Jetour – 1 952 units

10. Kia – 1 783 units

SA’s new-vehicle sales outlook for the rest of 2026

So, what’s next for South Africa’s new-vehicle market? Well, Naamsa says the combination of “moderating inflation and stable interest rates” continue to provide “some relief to consumers navigating still-elevated living and borrowing costs”.

Though the industry-representative body points to the potential of fuel-price movements playing a significant role in new-vehicle sales (for both private motorists and commercial operators), it adds that the market’s current performance “suggests that greater economic stability, improving product choice and more predictable financing conditions are helping to support vehicle demand”.

ALSO READ: GWM SA to launch Wey luxury brand in 2027

Meanwhile, NADA’s Cohen believes that the local new-vehicle market “remains resilient” despite continued pressure on the household budgets of private buyers and the rising operating costs of businesses.

“We look forward to a positive close to the 3rd quarter [of 2026], while remaining mindful of the effect of higher fuel prices on households and commercial operators,” he adds.

ALSO READ: New Mahindra Lifestyler locked in for SA

Finally, WesBank’s Sithole adds that “for both consumers and businesses, the affordability calculation is becoming increasingly important”.

“The purchase price or monthly repayment is only one part of the equation. Fuel consumption, maintenance, insurance and expected vehicle usage all contribute to what a vehicle ultimately costs over the life of the agreement. In an environment where running costs can change quickly, understanding that full picture becomes increasingly valuable,” he says.

VW celebrates 75 years in SA by unveiling the Tengo

There are birthdays, and then there are birthdays that double as a statement of intent. Volkswagen’s 75th anniversary celebration in Kariega last night was certainly the latter, and the cherry on the cake was a first look at the all-important Tengo crossover.

Amid the nostalgia and the rows of iconic classics, the evening’s real headline act rolled confidently onto the stage: the Tengo, the compact crossover that VW is betting will carry this plant and this brand’s African ambitions into its next chapter.

It’s worth sitting with the scale of the occasion first. President Cyril Ramaphosa was the guest of honour at the gala dinner, and he didn’t mince his words about what Volkswagen means here. “This brand is so woven into our culture that we sometimes have to remind ourselves that Volkswagen is not South African,” he told the room. It was a line that landed exactly as intended in a town that has built Beetles, Kombis, Golfs and Polos since a South African Motor Assemblers and Distributors (SAMAD) line first assembled a Beetle on 31 August 1951.

Seventy-five years, nearly 40 models and more than 4.8 million vehicles later, Kariega is still turning out cars for South Africa, but also the world.

Meet the Tengo

*VWGA chairperson and MD, Martina Biene, introduced the new Tengo at the brand’s Kariega manufacturing base.*

If you’ve been following the local rumour mill, the name won’t be new to you. VW Group Africa (VWGA) let the public vote on it back in 2025, and “Tengo” (chosen for its resonance across African languages, evoking strength and resilience) beat out Tavi, Tiva and Tion. What was new last night was seeing it in the metal, on home soil, for the first time.

This is a critical new product. Built on the same platform that underpins the Polo and closely related to the Brazilian-market Tera, the Tengo is a compact crossover engineered specifically to plug the gap beneath the T-Cross. In other words, it will fill the entry-level, value-driven space where Chinese brands have made their most damaging inroads into VW‘s local volumes over the past few years. This is the segment where the battle for South Africa’s new-car buyer is actually being fought, and until now, Volkswagen hasn’t had a proper foot soldier there.

Volkswagen Tera (aka Tengo) — *The Brazilian VW Tera, to which the Tengo is closely related.*

It’s also, unmistakably, a handsome thing. The Tengo is a compact crossover with the kind of tidy, confident proportions VW‘s design language does well: a slim light signature up front, sculpted flanks, and none of the awkwardness that sometimes creeps into cars built down to a price. Nobody in the room last night was left wondering whether this car could hold its own on looks alone.

*We managed to sneak a pic of the pre-production interior…*

In Brazil, the Tera is available with either a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre petrol engine or a turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol (TSI) motor. Transmission options in the South American country include a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed automatic.

The Tengo is the product of a roughly R4 billion investment into upgrading the Kariega facility, developed in close collaboration with Volkswagen of Brazil and slotting in alongside Skoda’s India operation as part of a genuinely global small-SUV push.

Martina Biene, VWGA’s chairperson and managing director, has previously been candid that this isn’t a straight copy-paste of the Brazilian Tera. It’s being “Africanised” for local roads, local buyers and, tellingly, local fuel quality.

Signed, sealed and delivered from next year, the display Tengo was signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, as well as Thomas Schäfer (CEO of VW Passenger Cars), Oliver Blume (VW Group CEO) and Martina Biene (chairperson and MD of VWGA).

Production is earmarked to begin in Kariega in around 100 days, ahead of the car’s on-sale date in 2027, alongside the Polo and Polo Vivo that already carry this plant’s export reputation.

Schaefer’s moment

If Ramaphosa’s speech was the political high point of the evening, Thomas Schäfer’s was its emotional one. The Volkswagen brand’s global CEO for Passenger Cars – and a former MD of the local operation – didn’t deliver a polished corporate address so much as a love letter to the plant that shaped his own career.

*Plant Kariega plays a pivotal role in the global VW manufacturing chain.*

“Kariega has secured its place in the Volkswagen world over the past 75 years,” he said, before making the point that will matter most to anyone watching this industry closely: “Global success is not created at headquarters. It is built by strong teams, strong locations and strong local roots.”

Coming from the man who now sets direction for Volkswagen Passenger Cars worldwide, that’s a vote of confidence that Kariega’s next 75 years are still being written from right here, not from Wolfsburg.

Then moving to more serious matters, Schäfer directly called for policy changes to enable those brands that invest and manufacture locally to compete “on a level playing field”. The president acknowledged his remark.

Why this matters beyond the party

*It’s also absolutely critical to the Eastern Cape’s economy as one of the largest private employers in the province.*

Strip away the anniversary trimmings, and you’re left with is a genuinely significant moment for South Africa’s auto sector. The Eastern Cape’s manufacturing base doesn’t get many nights like this, where a sitting president, a global brand CEO (in addition to Oliver Blume, CEO of VW Group) and a room full of dealers, suppliers and unions gather to mark not just what’s been built, but what’s coming next.

With VWGA also serving as the headquarters for Region Africa, the Tengo isn’t just another model on a crowded local price list. It’s the car that has to prove Kariega can still win the volume game that keeps a plant like this viable for the next 75 years.

We’ll bring you full technical details, spec and pricing on the Tengo as Volkswagen releases them ahead of its 2027 on-sale date.

Opinion: What happens after Vivo?

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VW celebrates 75 years in SA by unveiling the Tengo

There are birthdays, and then there are birthdays that double as a statement of intent. Volkswagen’s 75th anniversary celebration in Kariega last night was certainly the latter, and the cherry on the cake was a first look at the all-important Tengo crossover.

Meet the Tengo

Schaefer’s moment

Why this matters beyond the party