Toyota bZ4X (2026) Launch Review

The Toyota bZ4X is the Japanese brand’s first electric vehicle on sale in South Africa. Was it worth the wait? We took it for a drive around Mpumalanga to find out.

The Toyota bZ4X has finally touched down in South Africa. If you’re a Toyota fanatic, you’re probably wondering why it has taken so long for this battery-electric offering to make landfall, as it was first revealed back in 2021.

There are a number of reasons, including factors like unfavourable market conditions, pricing pressures and the fact the first iteration was not quite up to Toyota’s strict standards. Punch ‘Toyota bZ4X wheel recall’ into your favourite search engine to see what we’re talking about.

That’s old news and not worth dwelling on, as the South African-grade bZ4Xs are the facelifted units, which went on sale globally in 2025. Facelift isn’t quite the correct term, as Toyota claims a mid-cycle refresh which has rectified some of the glaring early issues, rejigged the cabin layout and improved the charging capabilities.

With the South African new-energy car market seeing growth of 14% year-to-date, Toyota SA reckons that now is a good time to launch its first battery-electric vehicle.

What is it?

The name is a little unconventional, given the rest of Toyota’s portfolio adopting names like Corolla, Fortuner, Hilux and so on. bZ4X sounds more like a booking reference for a flight, but Toyota says there’s method and not madness here. BZ stands for Beyond Zero, 4 denotes the size as in mid-size and X refers to the body-style, which is an offroad SUV.

It’s a quirky design, with gloss black wheel arches and sharp angles aplenty. The front is very EV, with a neat and minimalist nose and we’re delighted with the charging flap positioned in a more sensible location behind the front wheel arch – no more careful reversing needed!

The Toyota bZ4X is available locally in two body styles, SUV and station wagon. The e-TNGA modular platform is on duty and it’s identical to the more premium-positioned Lexus RZ. Interestingly, this is a group project, as Subaru helped develop the vehicle’s off-road system and has its own version called the Solterra. Both vehicles have a ground clearance of 215 mm.

Read more: Lexus RZ (2026) Launch Review

At almost 4 700 mm long (Touring: 4 830 mm) and with a wheelbase of 2 850 mm, the bZ4X is similarly sized to the Toyota RAV4 family SUV. Other markets get single motor setups with smaller batteries, but Toyota SA has opted for the largest batteries and more powerful motors.

The standard bZ4X features a 73.1 kWh battery and a dual-motor setup. There are outputs of 252 kW and 438 Nm, and Toyota claims a WLTP range of up to 481 km. There’s a top speed of 160 kph and it’ll dash to 100 kph in 5.1 seconds.

Then there’s the Touring which offers 334 kW and 438 Nm, and has a slightly larger 74.7 kWh battery. Expect 0-100 kph crushed in 4.3 seconds, a top speed of 180 kph and a WLTP range of up to 487 km. Both vehicles support 22 kW AC charging and 150 kW DC fast-charging.

Rivals? Based on our comparison tool, you can consider a BMW iX1, Volvo EC40 and BYD Sealion 7 as solid alternatives.

Trim levels on the new Toyota bZ4X

bZ4X interior

bZ4X

  • 20-inch alloy with tyre pressure warning
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • LED headlights with adaptive high beam
  • 7-inch digital instrument cluster
  • 14-inch infotainment screen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • 2x front USB-C, 2x rear USB-C
  • Heated, ventilated front leather seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Heated rear seats
  • JBL audio system
  • 2x wireless charging pads
  • Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 ADAS (forward collision alert, blind spot warning, 360-degree camera etc)
  • X-Mode offroad modes

Touring (additionally)

  • Camera washer
  • Open/raised roof rails
bZ4X wireless charging

What is the new model like to drive?

Climb into the bZ4X and you’re greeted by a strategically-placed instrument cluster. It’s located at the base of the windscreen, and thus negates the need for a head-up display. As is the norm for modern vehicles, the central dashboard is dominated by a large infotainment screen while the traditional gear selector has been replaced by a simpler drive-by-wire dial. The cabin feels premium to the touch, but doesn’t look particularly special or unique.

bZ4X Sand

There’s no shortage of acceleration surge, but unlike some electric cars, this one doesn’t have that on-off nature, delivering power and performance in a more restrained manner. We also appreciated the controllable regeneration (you can adjust the severity with the steering-wheel paddles). There are no synthesised noises, other than the exterior low-speed pedestrian alert.

Without anything audible from an engine or speakers to mask the noise, driver and passengers become more aware of other noises, like the wheels on the tar and wind around the mirrors. Thankfully, these were minimal at double-digit speeds. However, our test car had a rattle in the A-pillar which we couldn’t pinpoint, but it was drowned out by the rather excellent JBL audio system.

At just over 2 tons, the bZ4X is no lightweight, but which new-energy vehicle is? We pointed the nose towards some corners and came away surprised. The chassis balance is commendable, blending tight dynamics with comfort. It doesn’t really lean, feeling quite stiff and rigid, but never overly firm. It’s not meant to be a sporty EV whatsoever, yet the steering setup and engagement give you a happy hands-on experience. For day-to-day commuting, we thought the comfort levels were adequate.

Range and efficiency are the critical metrics for electric cars. While Toyota’s figure of around 480 km is a bit optimistic, based on a conservative driving style with some highway driving factored in, we reckon you’re good for over 400 km. Drive only in the city at low speeds and you could get very close to the claim.

Touring…

bZ4X Touring gravel

The first thing that came to this author’s eyes when stepping inside the bZ4X Touring was ‘electric Subaru Outback’! The recipe is pretty much there: all-wheel drive, station wagon, raised ground clearance and roof rails. Its cabin is identical to that of its sibling SUV, but where it starts to differ from an interior point of view is that, thanks to the additional length, there’s more headroom in the back and the boot is larger. Again, rear legroom is generous. But, when it comes to driving, the Touring is a straight-line menace.

Thanks to its additional power and torque, the bZ4X Touring launches off the line like a bullet. There’s no sport mode to find and no complicated launch control to dial up. Simply stab the accelerator and you’ll find yourself teleported a few hundred metres down the road in mere seconds.

With all-wheel drive, some off-road modes and 215 mm of ground clearance, the recipe for some competent gravel travel is there and we had the chance to briefly test this out. There was no shortage of grip and the vehicle didn’t hesitate on some particularly uneven sandy sections.

That said, the vehicle’s rigidity and 20-inch wheels aren’t the best combination for comfort and bump absorption, and on the rougher sections it was a bit jarring. If you’re serious about gravel travel, we’d say opt for some all-terrain tyres and adjust those pressures down a tad.

Still, once back on the tar, this is a well resolved offering, ticking the boxes for comfort and practicality with ease. The fact that it can effortlessly overtake slower traffic with zero hesitation is a bonus. It was telling that many of the more purist car-minded media members kept talking about the Touring’s talents and appeal.

The pace on offer is exceptional and there’s not a single Gazoo Racing decal to be seen, yet this is Toyota South Africa’s quickest accelerating vehicle to 100 kph. (Sadly, the Toyota Supra is no longer on sale locally.) We feel the Touring is one of the most niche offerings on sale in the market and unlikely to sell in tremendous volumes, but we’re glad Toyota SA ventured out of its comfort zone and brought it in.

How much does the new Toyota bZ4X cost in South Africa?

Toyota’s new battery-electric vehicle ships with a 3-year/100 000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year/160 000 km battery warranty and a 6-service/90 000 km service plan. Customers have the option to purchase an AC wallbox for home usage.

Toyota bZ4X BEV AWDR1 182 800
bZ4X TouringR1 317 700

Final thoughts

The arrival of the Toyota bZ4X marks the end of a busy period locally for the Japanese brand. Four product debuts – Land Cruiser FJ, RAV4, Hilux and its first EV – are a statement of intent. In a market where it feels like there’s a new vehicle from the Eastern brands launching every 10 days, Toyota needed to bring out its latest to prove there’s no resting on laurels here.

As for the bZ4X itself, Toyota South Africa has done well to bring the vehicle to market at a competitive price in comparison to its rivals. The specification levels are exceptionally high, with every gadget, gizmo and convenience feature ticked. Is it a good EV? First impressions say yes, but we’re keen to spend more quality time behind the wheel before we give it the stamp of approval.

Want to purchase a new or used Toyota? Browse vehicles for sale

Read the latest Toyota news and reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Toyota bZ4X launching in South Africa?

The Toyota bZ4X, Toyota’s first fully electric SUV, is scheduled for its official market introduction in South Africa in 2026, expanding Toyota’s local New Energy Vehicle (NEV) line-up.

What is the driving range of the Toyota bZ4X?

The Toyota bZ4X offers an estimated driving range of up to 400 km to 500 km on a single full charge (WLTP cycle), depending on the local driving conditions.

How long does it take to charge the Toyota bZ4X?

Using a 150 kW DC fast charger, the bZ4X can recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes. Charging via a standard 22 kW AC home wallbox takes around 4 hours for a full charge.

Will the bZ4X be available in All-Wheel Drive (AWD) in South Africa?

Yes, according to Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM). The bZ4X is manufactured in both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variants featuring Subaru’s co-developed X-MODE off-road technology.

What warranty accompanies the Toyota bZ4X battery?

Toyota globally backs the lithium-ion battery with an extensive warranty guaranteeing that the battery will maintain at least 70% of its original capacity after 8 years or 160 000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Local service plan arrangements will be confirmed at launch.

Is the BYD Atto 2 DM-i the best new car under R500k?

The BYD Atto 2 DM-i has an amazing claimed driving range. But its real benefit lies in its petrol engine’s potential high-mileage durability...

Over the last year, there has been a flood of extremely powerful Chinese crossover PHEVs launched into the local market. But these models, even with their excellent features-to-cost ratio, are just way too powerful for what most South African buyers need. If you’d never have considered a 400 kW German 6- or 8-cylinder model, why would you need a 400 kW+ Chinese PHEV?

BYD wants to change all that. It’s just launched a truly usable and affordable PHEV for South African buyers: the Atto 2 DM-i.

For less than R500 000, buyers get a neat design, lots of cabin space and excellent in-car UX. But the big draw is that powertrain: an efficiency-optimised 1,5-litre petrol engine (without turbocharging) and a plug-in rechargeable 7,8 kWh LFP battery pack.

The headline number is a claimed 930 km total driving range…

About that engine…

The engine is designed for durability, not power density – very sensible in a PHEV.

The Atto 2 DM-i has what appears to be a very average 1.5-litre petrol engine. It makes only 72 kW and 122 Nm of torque. In a vehicle that weighs 1 510 kg, those are underwhelming outputs. However, add the electric motor and the total system outputs jump to 122 kW and 300 Nm.

With the 1.5-litre petrol engine component of the powertrain being in such a mild state of tune, there are real durability benefits. Without turbochargers, high compression ratios, or ultra-trick valve timing, the Atto 2’s 1.5-litre petrol engine should run to very high mileages without many of the issues that afflict similarly sized turbocharged engines.

Search for a BYD Atto on Cars.co.za

Sensible speed limiter

Unlike many affordable BEVs, this doesn’t have an artificially low top speed.

BYD claims 0-100 kph in 9.1 seconds. Any family car with a sub-10-second acceleration time is quick enough to keep up with South African highway traffic and find safe gaps when changing lanes and passing slower traffic.

Interestingly, the BYD PHEV does not suffer from an artificially low top-speed limiter to save battery life. This is a weakness of some of the bargain BEVs sold in South Africa, which are limited to 130 kph. This could be an issue when overtaking at highway speeds on long declines, or when needing to pass several trucks at once, where speed overrun is needed.

With a top speed of 180 kph, BYD’s compact crossover PHEV is ready for long-distance road trips across South Africa.

How realistic is that 930 km range claim?

BYD Atto 2 DM-i
Reasonably aero, but that miracle range claim needs to be examined.

BYD’s range claim for the Atto 2 DM-i 930 km. It is the kind of number that South Africans, who are paying a lot for fuel, take notice of.

But like all fuel economy, battery range, and combined energy consumption claims, those numbers need to be scrutinised. The Atto 2 DM-i has an electric-only range of 40 km. That’s useful, but it’s a very small portion of that total claim.

If the battery capacity is large enough for only 40 km of range, that mild-tune 1.5-litre petrol must be incredibly efficient if it can power a 1 510 kg crossover for 890 km on 45 litres of fuel. That means average petrol consumption of 5.1 L/100 km, which seems a touch unrealistic.

Like all official petrol and diesel consumption numbers from car companies, range claims with PHEVs are always overrated because they’re calculated using ideal, perfect-flow driving patterns that don’t exist in the real world.

That does not mean the Atto 2 DM-i isn’t fuel-efficient, however. There are a couple of reasons for this. Firstly, it’s not that heavy at 1 510 kg. It has a reasonably aerodynamic shape. And because it runs a naturally aspirated engine rather than a turbocharged unit, the petrol portion of the powertrain runs very efficiently, and only when needed. This is especially true in traffic, where the electric motor and battery system will be managing the heaviest energy-consuming moments: pull-aways.

BYD Atto 2 DM-i vs Toyota Corolla Cross HEV

BYD makes about 75% of its own components. That promises good integration and build quality.

With its reasonably small battery, it’s easy to charge the Atto 2 DM-i pretty much anywhere, even using slower AC, not DC charging. It’s one of the ironic benefits of a compact PHEV; it doesn’t need to onboard huge volumes of power for recharging like a heavy, full-sized BEV.

For charging overnight at home from a wallbox, this BYD crossover makes a lot of sense. You’ll be recharging at the lowest possible electricity rate and have a full battery each morning when you wake. And with that battery being good for 40 km of real-world commuter range, you’ll be using very little fuel during your weekly driving cycle. If you have a solar setup at home, the savings are even better.

Toyota’s Corolla Cross HEV was the model that helped convert many traditional South African car buyers to hybrids. But everyone knows that the real value in a hybrid is having a PHEV, which you can charge externally. In a spec and price comparison, the BYD has a much more advanced powertrain and a better standard feature list than the Corolla Cross HEV.

The Atto 2 DM-i Comfort costs only R449 900. The Dynamic version, with its larger battery pack and additional ADAS features, is R489 900. That gives BYD an almost unrivalled PHEV crossover range in the crucial sub-R500 000 segment.

Search for a BYD Atto on Cars.co.za

6 most expensive hatchbacks in South Africa (2026)

Think all hatchbacks are budget friendly? Think again! We round up the 6 most expensive hatchbacks available in South Africa, each priced at over R1 million…

The most affordable models in South Africa’s new passenger-vehicle segment right now are budget hatchbacks. But that certainly doesn’t mean all examples of this body style are easy on the wallet. In fact, SA’s 6 most expensive hatchbacks are all priced on the far side of R1 million (pricing correct in July 2026).

The list of 7-figure hot hatches includes a pair of Japanese models and a quartet of German contenders. For the record, the local market is still awaiting the arrival of the Volkswagen Golf 8.5 R (with the pre-facelift version having quietly fallen away), a model that will surely also be priced well over R1 million… 

6. Honda Civic Type R – from R1 021 600

The only front-wheel-drive model on this list, Honda’s FL5-series Civic Type R is powered by the Japanese brand’s “K20C1” turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine sending 235 kW and 420 Nm to the front axle through a 6-speed manual gearbox (with no automatic transmission option available).

5. Toyota GR Corolla 1.6T Circuit 8AT – from R1 031 000

The 2-pedal version of Toyota’s GR Corolla – which employs an 8-speed automatic transmission, complete with a dedicated oil cooler – is part of the R1-million hot-hatch club, as is the 6-speed manual derivative (currently priced from R1 005 100). In either case, a turbocharged 1.6-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine (known internally as “G16E-GTS”) delivers 210 kW and 400 Nm to all 4 wheels.

4. Audi S3 Sportback TFSI – from R1 091 100

Static photo, Colour: Daytona Grey matt

The latest iteration of Audi’s 8Y-series S3 Sportback offers maximum figures of 245 kW and 420 Nm from its “EA888” turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol motor. Drive is delivered to all 4 wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Of course, the Ingolstadt-based automaker also offers this powertrain in a saloon body style, in the form of the S3 Sedan (from R1 106 100).

3. Mercedes-AMG A35 Hatch – from R1 303 932

Mercedes-AMG A35

Positioned as the understudy to the full-fat A45 S below, Mercedes-AMG’s A35 Hatch uses a 225 kW/400 Nm version of the turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol mill (“M260”), which furthermore benefits from a 48-volt electrical system and a belt-driven starter-generator (with this mild-hybrid technology providing a brief power boost of 10 kW). An 8-speed dual-clutch cog-swapper and all-wheel-drive are standard.

2. Mercedes-AMG A45 S– from R1 461 469

Mercedes-AMG A45 S

While the Mercedes-AMG A45 S is still South Africa’s most powerful hatchback, it interestingly no longer tops the list of SA’s most expensive hatchbacks, having since been usurped by a certain Audi. As a reminder, the A45 S features Affalterbach’s “M139” turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which sends a whopping 310 kW and 500 Nm to all 4 wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.

1. Audi RS 3 Sportback Carbon Edition – from R1 591 900

The priciest hatchback on the market is the Carbon Edition version of Audi’s RS 3 Sportback. Offering 294 kW and 500 Nm from a turbocharged 2.5-litre, 5-cylinder petrol powerplant (known as the “EA855 Evo”), the RS 3 Sportback has a marginally quicker claimed 0-100 kph time than the A45 S. Drive is delivered to all 4 corners via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The German brand also offers a standard version – sans Carbon Edition extras, that is – of the RS 3 Sportback (from R1 498 200), along with a sedan (available from R1 528 200).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the two most expensive hatchbacks currently available in South Africa?

A: The absolute priciest hatchback on the market is the Audi RS3 Sportback Carbon Edition, starting from R1 591 900 (with the standard RS3 starting at R1 498 200). It is closely followed by the Mercedes-AMG A45 S, which is priced from R1 461 469.

Q: Which models represent the premium R1-million entry point for high-performance hatchbacks in Mzansi?

A: The club of seven-figure hot hatches begins with the front-wheel-drive Honda Civic Type R (6-speed manual) priced from R1 021 600, and the all-wheel-drive Toyota GR Corolla Circuit 8-speed automatic starting at R1 031 000. Just above them sits the updated Audi S3 Sportback TFSI, retailing from R1 091 100.

Q: How do the top German contenders compare in performance figures and maintenance coverage?

A: The Mercedes-AMG A35 Hatch (R1 303 932) utilises a mild-hybrid 2.0-litre motor pushing out 225 kW, matching the Audi S3’s 4.7-second 0-100 km/h sprint time. In the top tier, the Audi RS3 Sportback leverages its iconic 5-cylinder engine (294 kW/500 Nm) to hit 100 km/h in a claimed 3.8 seconds, just edging out the AMG A45 S (3.9 seconds). All Audi S/RS and Mercedes-AMG models listed include a premium 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

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Toyota RAV4 clocks best SA sales month since early 2021

The Toyota RAV4 registered its best sales month in South Africa since early 2021, while Land Cruiser FJ sales continued to climb. Here are the sales figures for June 2026…

  • New RAV4 and FJ launched in May 2026
  • RAV4 posts its best sales in over 5 years
  • 264 units of Land Cruiser FJ registered

The new Toyota RAV4 and Land Cruiser FJ both launched in South Africa in the 2nd half of May 2026. So, with June 2026 now behind us, exactly how well did these newcomers from the Japanese brand sell in their first full month on the local market?

Well, according to figures reported to industry-representative body Naamsa, Toyota SA Motors registered 355 units of the RAV4 in June – including 20 examples via the rental channel. Based on our records, that’s the RAV4’s best performance since way back in January 2021, when 436 units were sold (33.3% of which went to rental companies).

This comes after the Japanese firm’s local division registered 215 units of the RAV4 in the 6th-gen model’s launch month of May (with 180 of those sold through the dealer channel), though the sales split between the outgoing 5th-generation range and the new version remains unclear. Still, that was the first time the RAV4 had made it into triple digits since October 2025.

As a reminder, the XA60-series RAV4 range in South Africa currently comprises 4 derivatives, with the flagship plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) derivative scheduled to be added as the 5th variant soon. The new line-up kicks off with the RAV4 2.5 GX HEV E-Four CVT, which is available from R770 500, while the aforementioned PHEV will be priced from R1 043 900.

Strong initial demand for Land Cruiser FJ, too

Toyota Land Cruiser FJ

What about the new Land Cruiser FJ? Well, Toyota SA Motors registered 264 units of this ladder-frame SUV in June 2026, including 19 units via the rental channel. That comes after 127 units of the new FJ-badged model were registered in May 2026 (including 116 units through the dealer channel). From what we understand, orders for the new FJ far outstrip Toyota SA Motors’ allocation for the rest of the year.

In June 2026, the Land Cruiser FJ thus again outsold the larger and more expensive Land Cruiser 300, which ended the month on 115 units. The J250-series Prado, however, was once more the most popular Land Cruiser SUV, with as many as 307 examples sold in June. The Japanese brand’s local division also registered 3 units of the Land Cruiser 76 wagon.

To refresh your memory, the Land Cruiser FJ range in Mzansi currently comprises just a pair of derivatives: the GX priced at R714 000 and the VX starting at R761 400. Both employ Toyota’s long-in-the-tooth naturally aspirated 2.7-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which sends 122 kW and 245 Nm to all 4 corners via a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How well did the new Toyota RAV4 sell in South Africa during June 2026, and how does it compare historically?

A: Toyota SA Motors registered 355 units of the RAV4 in June 2026, which included 20 units allocated to the rental channel. This milestone performance represents the nameplate’s best local monthly sales total since January 2021, when 436 units were recorded.

Q: What were the June 2026 sales figures for the new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ, and how does demand look?

A: The new ladder-frame Land Cruiser FJ achieved 264 registrations in June 2026, including 19 rental units, building heavily on its initial launch month volume of 127 units in May. Local demand is exceptionally strong, with current customer orders reported to far exceed Toyota SA Motors’ vehicle allocation for the remainder of the year.

Q: How did the Land Cruiser FJ perform against other Land Cruiser stablemates, and what does the local line-up cost?

A: The Land Cruiser FJ comfortably outsold the premium Land Cruiser 300 (115 units) but finished just behind the highly popular Prado (307 units). The local FJ line-up consists of two derivatives powered by a 2.7-litre petrol engine (122 kW/245 Nm): the entry-level GX priced from R714 000 and the higher-tier VX starting at R761 400.

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GWM Tank 300 facelifted for 2027

The GWM Tank 300 has been given a substantial facelift. Here’s a look at what’s changed for the updated model.

Official images of the GWM Tank 300 facelift have been published by Great Wall Motors, giving us a good look of what’s changed. Sadly, there are no interior images yet and we assume GWM will release them along with specifications very soon.

Visually, it’s unmistakably a Tank 300 but the front badges have been changed. The Tank T-badge has been replaced by capitalised lettering spelling out TANK. The front bumper now has towing recovery points as well as fasteners. If you look closely, there’s a slight bulge where the top of the windscreen meets the roof, and we presume this to be a camera or radar for assisted driving.

We understand the platform is more or less the same as the outgoing model, but there’s a big change with the front axle pushed forward meaning an improved approach angle for those tricky offroad situations.

Thanks to some mining of the patent office fillings by ChinaCarNews, we can also confirm the vehicle’s dimensions have changed. The outgoing model offered a length, width, height and wheelbase of 4 750 mm, 1 930 mm, 1 903 mm and 2 750 mm respectively. Now the GWM Tank 300 facelift sits at 4 886 mm long, 1 984 mm wide, has a height of 1 927 mm and the wheelbase has grown to 3 010 mm.

There was very little info on any powertrain changes other than the plug-in hybrid model (not available in South Africa) gets a larger 60 kWh battery pack, capable of 200 km of pure EV range. While the 2.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel engine remains the popular model in South Africa, it’s interesting to note that a 265 kW 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol V6 is available.

We’ll keep tabs on the GWM Tank 300 facelift news and update this article when new info is released.

Want to purchase a new or used Tank? Browse vehicles for sale

Read all the latest Tank news and reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine options are available for the GWM Tank 300 in South Africa?

The GWM Tank 300 is available in South Africa with a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine which produces 135 kW and 480 Nm.

Does the GWM Tank 300 have real off-road capability?

Yes, the Tank 300 is a highly capable 4×4 built on a rugged ladder-frame chassis. It features a robust torque-on-demand or part-time 4WD system, electronically lockable front and rear differentials, a low-range transfer case, crawl control, and a “Tank Turn” feature for tight spaces.

What is the fuel consumption of the GWM Tank 300?

The standard 2.4-litre turbo diesel model has a claimed combined fuel consumption of around 7.7 litres per 100 km.

What is the warranty and service plan coverage for the Tank 300 in SA?

GWM South Africa offers a comprehensive 7-year / 200,000 km warranty and a 5-year / 75,000 km service plan. For HEV models, there is an additional dedicated 8-year / 150,000 km battery warranty.

Chery Group officially takes over Rosslyn factory in front of SA government officials

Chinese automotive giant Chery has officially acquired the Rosslyn plant from Nissan and says it aims to create “nearly 3 000” direct and indirect jobs in South Africa…

  • Chery Group gets keys to Rosslyn plant.
  • “Majority” of Nissan employees retained.
  • Jetour and Jaecoo production confirmed.

Fast-growing Chinese automaker the Chery Group has officially acquired the Rosslyn factory from Nissan, a facility in which the Japanese firm had built new vehicles for South Africa and export markets for some 60 years.

In January 2026, Nissan confirmed it had reached an agreement with Chery regarding the sale of the facility, announcing that the Chinese company would purchase the land, buildings and associated assets, including of the nearby stamping plant.

Chery factory

Now the acquisition process is complete. At a ceremony attended by several government officials (including deputy president Paul Mashatile) and various Chery global executives, the Chinese company announced it had retained the “majority” of the factory’s existing employees.

Chery plant opening
Cars.co.za’s Amasi Mwela signing in at the opening ceremony of the new Chery plant.

Aiming to build 50 000 units per annum in “phase 1” of the project, the Chery Group furthermore revealed it planned to create “nearly 3 000 direct and indirect jobs, across manufacturing, supply chain and services”. It also announced plans to launch a “localisation programme”, with a target of 40% local vehicle content in the initial phase.

As a reminder, the Chery Group includes not only the core Chery brand but also various sub-brands, such as Omoda & Jaecoo, Jetour, iCaur and Lepas. In April 2026, Jetour confirmed that its T1 and T2 crossovers would start rolling off the line in Rosslyn by mid-2027.

Omoda & Jaecoo has subsequently announced that its Jaecoo J5 would “form part of the core production line-up” at the Chery Group’s newly acquired manufacturing plant. Interestingly, the sub-brand added that the J5 would be produced locally in both internal combustion engine (ICE) form and new-energy vehicle (NEV) guise.

Jaecoo J5

The Chery Group has yet to confirm which other models are likely to be produced at the Rosslyn site. As a reminder, Nissan officially opened the Rosslyn plant back in 1966. In addition to various Datsun and Nissan nameplates, the factory has also built models from several other brands, such as the 1st-generation Fiat Uno and Renault Sandero.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the details surrounding Chery Group’s acquisition of the Rosslyn manufacturing plant?

A: The fast-growing Chinese automotive giant, Chery Group, has officially finalised its acquisition of the historic Rosslyn factory from Nissan, which had operated the site since 1966. Following an initial agreement in January 2026, Chery has purchased the land, buildings and nearby stamping assets, while successfully retaining the majority of the facility’s existing Nissan workforce.

Q: What are Chery’s initial production targets and economic impacts for South Africa?

A: In “phase one” of the project, Chery Group aims to establish an annual production capacity of 50 000 units. The operation is projected to create nearly 3 000 direct and indirect jobs across manufacturing, services, and the supply chain. Furthermore, a new localisation programme has been introduced with a target of achieving 40% local vehicle content during this initial phase.

Q: Which specific brands and models have been confirmed for local production at the Rosslyn site?

A: While the full production roster is still being finalised, Chery has confirmed that Jetour and Jaecoo models will lead the rollout. Jetour’s T1 and T2 crossovers are scheduled to begin rolling off the line by mid-2027. Additionally, the Jaecoo J5 will form part of the core production lineup, manufactured locally in both internal combustion engine (ICE) and new-energy vehicle (NEV) configurations.

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NEVs are growing in popularity in South Africa … but it’s no surprise

Recent new-vehicle statistics suggest the demand for plug-in-hybrids and even EVs are surging in South Africa, and some reports have suggested that the increases are the result of consumers feeling the pinch at the pump. But just how accurate is that deduction?

The headline numbers are certainly impressive and, at face value, convincing. Total NEV (traditional hybrid + plug-in hybrid + battery-electric) new-vehicle sales in South Africa grew by 31.5% during Q1 2026 (when compared with Q1 2025). Interestingly, the usual driver of NEV sales in South Africa – traditional hybrids – declined by 6.9% in the same period, yet still constituted the bulk (60.3%) of the total NEV figure. 

Read more: ICE vs EV: Total 5-year cost of ownership in SA

Plug-in-hybrids rocketed by 429.9%, but there are some caveats here. During Q1 2025, only 241 such vehicles were sold in South Africa, simply because there weren’t many options. By Q1 2026, when more models had joined the market, the number had grown to 1 277, which is certainly a big uptick, but still minute compared with the overall new-vehicle market total – just over 160 000 units for the first three months of this year. 

The BYD Dolphin Surf, a driver of much of the increase in EV sales.

And EVs? Well (new) sales of battery-electric vehicles rose by 97.1% during Q1 2026, largely fuelled by the arrival of the BYD Dolphin Surf, which in its first month (March) recorded 239 registrations. That accounted for 44% of all (reported) Q1 EV sales in South Africa, in a single month. 

All of this looks pretty rosy, but the data doesn’t tell the full story. For one, several brands that sell electric vehicles are not reporting (yet), including Geely and Dongfeng. Secondly, tying the “explosion” in sales of NEV to the fuel price – a result of the conflict in Iran – is very likely oversimplifying the data.

Read more: SA’s EV sales fell in 2025 (but the total NEV market grew)

Consumer demand on Cars.co.za, including NEV

The interest in PHEVs has shown a comparatively dramatic increase, caused largely by more options in the market equipped with this drivetrain setup.

While not a perfect metric in itself, consumer demand (as informed by actual enquiries on cars listed for sale) on Cars.co.za paints a somewhat different picture. Keep in mind that vehicles on Cars.co.za are a mix of new and used, but the addition of new vehicles in segments with a low base (PHEVs and EVs, primarily) largely result in a new(ish)-vehicle-dominant mix…

In May 2025, hybrids (including PHEVs) accounted for only 0.47% of leads (enquiries) on Cars.co.za, while the number for pure battery-electric vehicles was only 0.07%. By May this year, those numbers had risen to 1.27% and 0.14% respectively. They’ve grown gradually in the past year, not via a major spike in recent months. 

Again, in percentage terms, the growth looks explosive when comparing the two Mays one year apart – 158% and 100%, respectively. Ultimately, however, leads for NEVs on Cars.co.za still account for only 1.41% of the total (May 2026). It’s an improvement, certainly, but not yet a clear indication that consumers are making the decision to shift based on the fuel price situation, rather than just responding to a gradual ramp-up of options in the past year. Note that stock of NEVs currently accounts for 2.43% of all vehicles listed on Cars.co.za (versus enquiries accounting for 1.41%). 

The demand for diesel vehicles showed a sharp decline in Q1 and Q2, most likely driven by increased pump prices as a result of the war in the Middle East.

Perhaps the most interesting potential consumer shift we have seen does not concern NEVs at all, but rather demand for diesel vehicles. This has dropped very sharply by around 2.8 percentage points from 29.4% in March to 26.92% in May, a mere 2 months later. Interestingly, the diesel segment’s decline was not entirely NEV’s gain, but rather traditional petrol, demand for which increased by 2.22% percentage points (69.46% in March to 71.68% in May). Seeing such a big shift in such a short space of time in demand for the 2 biggest fuel types (petrol and diesel) on Cars.co.za is extremely rare, but the timing does align with fuel price changes.

While both petrol and diesel prices increased significantly during March, April and May, the surge in diesel pricing was considerably more pronounced. Interestingly, the diesel price was lowered in June, and our demand figures show the start of a recovery in diesel vehicle demand. In fact, the 0.6 percentage point demand increase diesel enjoyed in June was almost entirely petrol’s loss. In June, both PHEV and traditional hybrid demand softened on Cars.co.za, while full electric had recovered well after a poor May.

Given the very large pool of vehicles on sale on Cars.co.za, the make-up of the stock profile takes time to change and so gradual change is to be expected – which is what we are seeing with NEVs on Cars.co.za. Yes, demand is growing as more stock becomes available, particularly at the lower end of the market. But we have not witnessed a spike or sudden surge in NEV demand on Cars.co.za that suggests the sudden fuel price shocks drove the growth exclusively. On the other hand, the quick and pronounced shift to petrol (away from diesel) does seem to correlate with the fuel price changes, even when we factor in seasonal fluctuations.

Want to purchase a new or used NEV? Browse vehicles for sale

Jolion takes 4th! SA’s best-selling passenger cars in June 2026

GWM’s Haval Jolion grabbed 4th on the list of SA’s best-selling passenger cars in June 2026, posting its highest tally yet. Meanwhile, the Jetour T2 dropped out of the top 10…

  • Passenger-car podium positions unchanged
  • Jolion’s sales high sees it grab 4th position
  • Ertiga returns as T2 drops out of the top 10

In June 2026, South Africa’s total new-vehicle sales increased 15.3% year on year to 54 482 units, with the local passenger-vehicle market posting even stronger growth, improving 18.1% to 38 393 units. So, which passenger cars led the sales charge in Mzansi last month?

Well, before we drill down into individual-model registration figures, it’s worth noting rental sales accounted for 9.7% (or 3 709 units) of the passenger-vehicle market’s total. A further 525 units were sold to government, while 1 062 units were reported as “single” registrations (vehicles the respective brands kept for their own use).

Podium positions unchanged in June 2026

Chery Tiggo 4 Pro

After wrestling back first position in May 2026, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo retained the top spot in June, with local sales increasing 1.5% month on month to 2 371 units (note the latter figure excludes 24 units of the Xpress panel-van that were registered in the light-commercial vehicle space). The Kariega-built hatch’s total included 430 sales via the rental channel and 116 sales to government.

In contrast, all 2 070 units of the runner-up Chery Tiggo 4 range – which, as a reminder, includes both the Tiggo 4 Pro and the Tiggo Cross – were sold via the dealer channel. While Tiggo 4 registrations increased 0.5% month on month, local sales of the 3rd-placed Hyundai Grand i10 declined 17.0% from a record May performance, ending on 1 490 units (excluding 137 units of the Cargo-badged panel van registered in the LCV segment).

Jolion hits sales record and jumps Swift

In June 2026, the GWM Haval Jolion posted its highest single-month sales tally yet, narrowly beating its previous record set in October 2025. In the end, the Jolion reached 1 424 units, a month-on-month improvement of 5.9%. That saw the Chinese crossover climb a ranking to 4th place, forcing the Suzuki Swift (down 12.6% month on month to 1 388 units) into 5th.

Meanwhile, the Prospecton-built Toyota Corolla Cross held onto 6th position last month, improving its total by 12.1% compared to May to end on 1 356 units. The Toyota Urban Cruiser climbed 3 rankings to 7th, managing a total of 1 174 units (up 24.4% month on month), including 207 sales via the rental channel.

Ertiga returns as T2 drops out of top 10

The Suzuki Ertiga enjoyed a strong showing in June 2026, with local registrations of this 7-seater MPV surging 36.7% month on month to 1 150 units (including only 70 sales to rental companies). The Ertiga snatched 8th place, with the Suzuki Fronx (down 7.2% month on month to 1 092 units) slipping 2 spots to 9th.

The Toyota Starlet closed out the table, with local sales of this Baleno-based hatchback dipping 2.4% month on month to 968 units. Interestingly, the Jetour T2 (918 units) suffered a 15.8% month-on-month decline to drop out of the top 10. Other models bubbling under in June included the Toyota Vitz (921 units), Omoda C5 (901 units), Kia Sonet (833 units) and Mahindra XUV3XO (816 units).

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

1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo (excluding LCV) – 2 371 units

2. Chery Tiggo 4 (including Cross) – 2 070 units

3. Hyundai Grand i10 (excluding LCV) – 1 490 units

4. GWM Haval Jolion – 1 424 units

5. Suzuki Swift – 1 388 units

6. Toyota Corolla Cross – 1 356 units

7. Toyota Urban Cruiser – 1 174 units

8. Suzuki Ertiga – 1 150 units

9. Suzuki Fronx – 1 092 units

10. Toyota Starlet – 968 units

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Toyota bZ4X (2026) Price & Specs

The Toyota bZ4X has officially launched in South Africa, arriving as the Japanese brand’s very first fully electric model. Here’s what the newcomer costs in Mzansi…

  • Toyota brand launches its first EV in SA
  • New bZ4X available in 2 body styles
  • Pricing starts at just under R1.2-million

South Africa’s best-selling automotive brand has finally entered the local battery electric vehicle (BEV) segment. Yes, the Toyota bZ4X has officially launched in Mzansi as the Japanese brand’s first EV – and it’s available in 2 distinct forms.

Though Toyota SA Motors already offers the battery-powered Lexus RZ in Mzansi, this new bZ4X – which rides on the same e-TNGA platform – is the first Toyota-badged EV to hit the local market. Interestingly, it arrives in facelifted form, having benefitted from a mid-cycle refresh in May 2025.

The bZ4X arrives as the first Toyota-badged EV in SA.

So, what does it cost in South Africa? Well, the all-paw Toyota bZ4X is priced from R1 182 800. For the record, that makes it R483 100 less than the base EX version of the Lexus RZ 500e (R1 665 900), though the latter offers a little more power plus a mite more range from its slightly larger battery pack.

Billed as a 5-seater crossover, the facelifted bZ4X measures 4 690 mm from front to back, making it around 90 mm longer than the new RAV4. This electric model’s luggage capacity comes in at 452 litres, while its ground clearance is listed as 215 mm.

Ground clearance comes in at 215 mm.

Meanwhile, the more powerful bZ4X Touring – complete with a longer (4 830 mm) wagon-like body, model-specific exterior styling and chunky roof rails – is priced from R1 317 700. The two models, however, share the same 2 850 mm wheelbase.

Interestingly, however, they each feature a distinct powertrain. The bZ4X employs an electric motor on each axle, with total system outputs standing at 252 kW and 438 Nm. A 73.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack offers a single charge WLTP range of up to 481 km. The obligatory 0-100 kph sprint should take around 5.1 seconds, with top speed limited to 160 kph.

The larger bZ4X Touring offers even more oomph.

Meanwhile, the bZ4X Touring seemingly upgrades to more powerful electric motors (taking peak system outputs to 334 kW and 438 Nm) and a slightly larger, 74.7 kWh battery pack. This wagon-like derivative’s claimed WLTP range tops out at 487 km.

From what we can glean, the SA-spec bZ4X will ride on 20-inch alloy wheels (wrapped in 235/R50 R20 rubber), shipping with a tyre-repair kit rather than a spare wheel. Inside, we expect to see a 7.0-inch instrument cluster, a 14.0-inch touchscreen and a 9-speaker JBL sound system, while leather upholstery, a 360-degree camera system and a panoramic sunroof should all be standard, too.

Note the 14.0-inch touchscreen.

Other standard features will likely include front-seat heating (and ventilation), a heated steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging, automatic LED headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, a digital rear-view mirror, “X-Mode” off-road driving settings and a raft of advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) functions, from blind-spot monitoring to intelligent park assist.

What does the Toyota bZ4X cost in South Africa?

DERIVATIVEPRICE
Toyota bZ4XR1 182 800
Toyota bZ4X TouringR1 317 700

The prices above include a 3-year/100 000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year/160 000 km battery warranty and a 6-service/90 000 km service plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the pricing and derivative options for the new Toyota bZ4X in South Africa?

A: Toyota’s first fully electric model arrives in Mzansi with a choice of two body styles. The standard bZ4X crossover is priced from R1 182 800, while the longer, wagon-styled bZ4X Touring starts at R1 317 700. Both options come standard with a 3-year/100 000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year/160 000 km battery warranty and a 6-service/90 000 km service plan.

Q: How do the two Toyota bZ4X derivatives differ in terms of performance and dimensions?

A: While both models share a 2 850 mm wheelbase, the standard bZ4X crossover measures 4 690 mm in length and features dual electric motors pushing out 252 kW and 438 Nm. The larger bZ4X Touring measures 4 830 mm in length and boasts upgraded electric motors delivering a combined 334 kW and 438 Nm.

Q: What are the battery capacities, charging ranges and key standard features of the local bZ4X lineup?

A: The standard crossover is equipped with a 73.1 kWh lithium-ion battery delivering a WLTP range of up to 481 km, while the Touring uses a slightly larger 74.7 kWh battery pack to offer up to 487 km of range. Both variants ride on 20-inch alloy wheels and feature a premium cabin packed with standard amenities, including a 14.0-inch central touchscreen, a 9-speaker JBL sound system, heated and ventilated leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and Toyota’s “X-Mode” off-road system.

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Petrol vs diesel: Which is more expensive to own in 2026?

Do you pay more upfront for a cents-saving diesel, or take the hit at the pump with a petrol? As compact diesels are becoming ever harder to find, we plug July’s prices into a baseline model and calculate the exact crossover point where diesel starts making sense. Let’s crunch the numbers.

A firmer hand on production costs, the after-effect of 2015’s Diesel Scandal and a renewed focus on new energy have all resulted in diesel cars becoming an increasing rarity. And that’s a pity, for petrol cars simply can’t match the efficiency of diesel variants.

But, given the recent fluctuations in fuel prices owing to the Middle East conflict, do the latter still make sense today? After some digging, we found an affordable model enabling a reasonable like-for-like comparison to answer the question about petrol or diesel being the most expensive to own.

The price premium: Why do diesel cars cost more upfront in SA?

The Kia Seltos is a good example of a diesel model costing more than the equivalent petrol derivative.

It is, or was, once the cash-counter’s ultimate car-shopping conundrum: petrol or diesel?

Although sporting known benefits over petrol such as better fuel efficiency and bottom-end tractability, the downside is that diesel cars are pricier because they are more expensive to make.

Diesel engines rely on compression instead of spark to ignite fuel and therefore require sturdier construction of key components. Engine blocks and turbochargers are hardier, while fuel injection and exhaust systems are more specialised. These all hike up the cost of manufacturing.

Such higher production costs destroy the remaining bit of profit margin in these cars. Traditionally, in the small car segment, equivalently priced diesel models were sold in lower trim grades just to be price-competitive against their petrol-powered siblings.

Today, the Kia Seltos LX offers a reasonable platform for a like-for-like comparison, with just R29 000 separating the price of the base-level petrol and diesel versions.

Petrol vs diesel fuel consumption: The real-world efficiency gap in SA

The Kia Seltos 1.5 CRDi consumes 1.1 L/100 km less fuel than the 1.5-litre petrol model.

While driver behaviour and road conditions remain significant determinants of fuel consumption, the scientific reality is that the thermal efficiency of diesel engines, along with the energy density per litre of fuel, exceed that of petrol by roughly 10%.

Put into practice, in the case of the Kia Seltos, the diesel derivative consumes an average of 5.2 L/100 km versus 6.3 L/100 km for the petrol model. In a measure of petrol vs diesel consumption, it’s a slam dunk for the latter.

Below, we take these claimed averages for each vehicle and calculate the cost per kilometre using July’s coastal fuel prices by dividing the upfront price premium by the R0.33/km difference, resulting in a breakeven point where the petrol model loses its upfront advantage.

MetricPetrol (Kia Seltos 1.5 LX Auto)Diesel (Kia Seltos 1.5 CRDi LX Auto)Difference
Purchase priceR492 995R521 995R29 000
Claimed fuel economy6.3 l/100 km5.2 l/100 km1.1 L/100 km
July fuel price (coastal)R26.00/litreR25.20/litre—
Fuel cost per kilometreR1.64/kmR1.31/kmR0.33/km
Breakeven point87 879 km

The breakeven calculation: How many kilometres are needed to clear the diesel debt?

While petrol wins in the showroom and diesel at the forecourt, to make real sense of the numbers, you need to establish the exact breakeven point where the cumulative diesel savings wipes out the initial purchase price gap.

In the case of the Kia Seltos, that moment arrives just below 88 000 km.

Were you to drive an average of 15 000 km per year, that financial threshold would arrive after 5 years and 10 months. The good news is that the Kia is sold with a 5-year unlimited km factory warranty, meaning that you’ll have peace of mind for most of the duration of closing in on that crossover point.

Beyond the pump: Maintenance & resale value considerations

And the bad news?

Not necessarily bad – yet unquestionably a point you cannot ignore – is the true cost of ownership calculations cannot put aside what happens after the factory service plan has lapsed.

At our projected 15 000 km of mileage per year, the Seltos’ 5-year/90 000 km service plan will see to it that you will reach the 88 000 km breakeven point still fully covered without fear of an expensive mechanical failure.

But thereafter?

It’s worth knowing that diesels are generally reliable long-distance workhorses, but need regular upkeep that’s more expensive than petrol to ensure they run at their best.

That said, your endurance will be rewarded on the day that you decide to sell your diesel Seltos, as its stronger fuel economy and predicted high durability make it command a higher used price than its petrol-powered sibling.

Which to choose, then?

Choosing between diesel and petrol should be guided by ownership needs and usage patterns rather than preference.

Ultimately, the choice between petrol or diesel is objectively guided by ownership and usage patterns rather than preference for fuel type. For urban, low-mileage drivers looking to change cars every 3 or 4 years, petrol is the most logical and financially sensible bet. You simply won’t cover enough distance to realise the diesel’s up-front premium.

For long-distance haulers and those planning to keep their car for longer than 5 years, diesel is the go-to option. You may pay a little more at every service, but not only do you save every time you fill up, your long-term commitment will also be rewarded come the day you decide to sell.