Pre-orders for the iCaur V27 range-extender SUV have opened, ahead of the vehicle’s debut before the end of 2026.
The iCaur V27 will be the biggest product offered in South Africa when it hits local showrooms. As a reminder, iCaur is a fun, new-energy brand from the Chery Group and the range currently comprises the all-electric V23 and 03T, with the latter set to receive a range-extender powertrain before the year’s out.
iCaur South Africa has created a pre-order page for the new V27 and shared some early specifications and details. The iCaur V27 will be the physically largest vehicle in the lineup, measuring just over 5 metres. With a wheelbase of 2 900 mm and height of 1 894 mm, the V27 is a touch bigger than established large family SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.
V27 Powertrain
While all the details for the South African market are yet to be confirmed, we do know there’s a 34.31 kWh battery offering a pure EV range of 150 km and a claimed 0-100 kph in 6 seconds. The powertrain is a range-extender setup, meaning it drive like an electric car, but once the battery is depleted, the petrol engine simply makes more electricity. A combined range of 1000 km based on the NEDC is claimed.
The V27 features an electric motor on each axle. The onboard generator is a turbocharged petrol 1.5-litre engine which does not drive the wheels. With outputs of 339 kW and 505 Nm the V27 should be one brisk customer! There are other powertrain derivatives for overseas markets, like single-motor and rear-wheel drive, but more information will be released when the vehicle launches.
Cabin and Features
Inside, the cabin will feature a segmented sunroof that’s said to block 98% of incoming UV rays, 15.4-inch HD infotainment screen, 50 practical storage solutions, assisted driving tech, active noise cancellation and a 23-speaker sound system, to name but a few.
Final specifications and pricing will be confirmed closer to the launch towards the end of 2026.
iCaur (internationally known as iCar) is a new electric vehicle (EV) sub-brand under the Chery Group. It focuses on “lifestyle” vehicles with rugged, retro-futuristic designs and advanced technology, targeting younger, adventure-oriented drivers.
When is iCaur launching in South Africa?
According to the latest industry reports from December 2025, iCaur is scheduled to officially launch in South Africa in 2026. The brand made its local public debut at the 2025 Festival of Motoring.
Which iCaur models will be available in South Africa?
The initial line-up is expected to include the iCaur V23 (a compact, rugged electric SUV) and the iCaur 03T. A larger flagship model, the iCaur V27, has also been confirmed for the local market and is expected to arrive later.
Are iCaur vehicles fully electric?
Yes, iCaur focuses on New Energy Vehicles (NEVs). While the V23 is a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) with a range of approximately 400–500 km, other models like the V27 may feature “Range Extender” (REEV) technology, combining an electric motor with a 1.5L petrol generator for a combined range exceeding 1,000 km.
Who owns the iCaur brand?
iCaur is a subsidiary of the Chinese automotive giant Chery. In South Africa, it will operate alongside Chery’s other brands, such as Omoda and Jaecoo, sharing some dealer networks and support infrastructure.
The new GWM Tank 500 diesel is a genuine threat to the Everest & Prado
With the Tank 500 diesel, GWM engineers have created a real rival to the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the powerful Ford Everest V6 diesel. But what are the numbers and technical features you really need to know about when comparing these three luxury SUVs with real all-terrain ability?
GWM’s Tank sub-brand has proved that Chinese automakers can build body-on-frame SUVs capable of challenging established heavyweights like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the Ford Everest. Yet, while the Tank 300 has been a great brand builder for the brand, the larger GWM Tank 500 has struggled locally. The Chinese brand’s flagship SUV features a luxurious cabin, generous interior space and competitive off-road driving geometry, but it lacked a diesel engine. When you are competing in a segment dominated by the Prado and Everest, diesel powertrains matter.
Since its introduction in late 2024, the Tank 500 has been available only with a 2.0-litre turbopetrol HEV powertrain. Because it is a traditional hybrid rather than a plug-in, efficiency gains are modest. Combined with a heavy kerb weight, the Tank 500 HEV’s real-world fuel consumption proved too steep for many South African luxury 4×4 buyers.
For local Tank fans, the puzzle was why GWM did not initially share the P500 double-cab bakkie’s 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine with the Tank 500. That oversight is now rectified, with the Tank 500 finally receiving the powertrain it always needed: a high-output four-cylinder 3.0-litre turbodiesel.
Torque talk: Size matters under the bonnet
GWM’s new ‘big-four’ turbodiesel adds a lot of pulling power to the Tank 500.
Driven by strong demand for oil-burners across Australia and African markets, GWM developed this new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine to answer the call for robust low-end grunt.
Rated at 170 kW and 620 Nm, the Tank 500 diesel matches the working torque required for heavy-duty applications, providing a smooth delivery through a nine-speed automatic transmission. With plenty of gearing flexibility, the transmission optimises available torque and delivers responsive throttle input, particularly when towing or travelling with the Tank 500 fully loaded.
Pure diesel, no extra liquid hassles
GWM’s diesel engine should have Prado-like levels of rural diesel adaptability.
GWM’s diesel engine offers the simple, uncompromised remote-area usability that traditional SUV buyers demand.
Unlike some modern diesels that rely on selective catalytic reduction requiring AdBlue additives, GWM’s engineers brought this power unit to market without needing an AdBlue tank – a trait shared by the Prado diesel, whereas the Everest V6 requires the additive.
For remote-area overland travellers, skipping AdBlue means one less fluid to monitor on extended journeys across Southern Africa, where specialised exhaust fluid availability in small rural towns cannot always be guaranteed.
GWM’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel operates with a high-pressure common-rail injection system, meaning it performs best on clean 50 ppm (or lower) diesel. While ultra-low-sulphur fuel is widely distributed along main transport corridors, planning fuel stops remains an essential step when exploring deeply isolated routes.
Mass vs grunt: Reading beyond the GWM Tank 500 spec sheet
Like all true all-terrain SUVs with three-row seating, it’s big and heavy.
Like all true body-on-frame SUVs with three-row seating, the Tank 500 is substantial (it measures a considerable 5 078 mm long, 1 934 mm wide and 1 905 mm tall).
Body-on-frame luxury SUVs carry significant mass by design, built to withstand years of harsh off-road use and thousands of kilometres across heavily corrugated gravel roads.
The heavy ladder-frame chassis underpinning the Tank 500, Everest and Prado give all three vehicles serious durability, but that weight demands substantial power to maintain swift highway cruising and confident overtaking acceleration. Consequently, power-to-weight ratios offer the clearest picture of real-world performance.
With kerb weights hovering between 2 500 kg and 2 600 kg depending on trim, the Tank 500 diesel is a heavy vehicle, but the engine appears up to the task.
Long-distance range: The GWM Tank 500 has the ultimate overland edge
Lack of long-range tanks is an annoyance with the new Prado…
By far the most compelling addition to the line-up is the 4×4 Overland derivative tailored for remote exploration – giving South African buyers an alternative built specifically for long-haul wilderness routes.
Outfitted with factory-fitted all-terrain tyres and standard underbody protection, this derivative addresses one of the primary criticisms levelled against many modern luxury 4x4s: cruising range.
Where long-distance travellers often express frustration over reduced fuel tank sizes in modern competitors, the Tank 500 Overland offers an impressive total fuel capacity of 131 litres (78 litres on other models), delivering a distinct real-world range advantage. For South African drivers planning cross-border expeditions through isolated stretches of Namibia or Botswana, that extended range provides invaluable peace of mind.
Chery Grootman name locked in for SA
It’s official, Grootman is the name chosen for Chery’s first double-cab plug-in hybrid bakkie, due in early 2027.
The Chery bakkie will be hitting South African showrooms in the first quarter of 2027 and after a lengthy public naming campaign, it has been called the Grootman. That’s far more interesting than its product code of KP31. It appears every market has a local name, for instance Australia gets ‘Stockman’ nomenclature.
The Chery Grootman has a nice ring to it, adopting South African kasi slang. Loosely defined as ‘big man’ but also used as a term of respect.
As a reminder, Chery’s first bakkie boasts some impressive technology. Assembled on a dedicated hybrid setup and powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine with electric assist, the Grootman’s outputs are eye-openingly big. With 350 kW and 800 Nm, this should be quite the powerhouse.
It has other interesting claims such as 100 km of electric-only range, a tow rating of up to 3.5 tonnes and a ground clearance of 230 mm. It also has vehicle-to-load functionality, allowing things like camping equipment and power tools to be plugged in.
When will the Chery Grootman go on sale in South Africa?
The Grootman goes on sale in SA in early 2027, with final pricing, line-up and specifications to be confirmed closer to the time.
D-Max edges out Ranger! SA’s best-selling bakkies in September 2026
In September 2026, the D-Max grabbed 2nd place (ahead of the Ranger) on the list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies, while the Bolero and Landtrek entered the top 10…
Toyota Hilux still comfortable out front
D-Max grabs 2nd as sales surge 27.2%
Ranger slips to 3rd despite strong sales
VW Amarok beats LC79 to 6th position
Bolero and Landtrek break into top 10
Navara and Tunland drop out of top 10
In September 2026, sales in South Africa’s total new-vehicle market grew 12.7% year on year to a hefty 61 645 units, with the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) segment improving 9.6% year on year to 14 361 units. But what happened on the list of SA’s best- and worst-selling bakkies?
Well, though local registrations of the Toyota Hilux slipped 2.9% month on month to 3 769 units in September 2026, the Prospecton-built range – which currently comprises a mix of 8th- and 9th-generation derivatives – comfortably retained its title of Mzansi’s most popular bakkie.
The Hilux finished over 1 200 units ahead of its nearest rival last month.
Meanwhile, the Isuzu D-Max enjoyed a 27.2% month-on-month surge in sales to reach a total of 2 551 units (including 516 sales to government), grabbing 2nd place from the Ford Ranger in the process. That’s the 2nd time this year – after March 2026 – that the Struandale-manufactured bakkie has edged the Ranger. In the end, the Silverton-made model had to settle for 3rd place despite hitting a multi-year high of 2 502 units (up 5.4% month on month).
Though the KwaZulu-Natal-assembled Mahindra Pik Up (521 units; down 14.9% month on month) retained 4th position in September 2026, the GWM P-Series – which includes both the P300 and P500, the latter now offered with a new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine – was breathing down its neck in 5th, ending the month a mere 4 sales behind on 517 units (down 12.1% compared to August 2026). As such, it again ranked as the local market’s most popular Chinese bakkie.
On the back of a 22.5% month-on-month increase in registrations, the locally built Volkswagen Amarok (430 units) climbed a ranking to 6th in September, pushing ahead of the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 (419 units; down 3.5% month on month), which thus had to settle for 7th.
The JAC T-Series range – which will soon welcome a new, aggressively priced 360 kW T9 PHEV derivative – moved up a place to 8th, with sales increasing 3.7% month on month to 255 units. Meanwhile, the Mahindra Bolero (226 units; up 46.8% month on month) and Peugeot Landtrek (207 units; up 55.6% month on month) both broke into the top 10.
Bakkies outside the top 10 in September 2026
The Navara fell out of the top 10 in September.
So, which bakkies didn’t crack the top 10 last month? Well, the Nissan Navara – local production of which ended in Rosslyn back in May 2026, when Chery took over the plant – dropped off the table, with local sales slipping 37.2% month on month to 184 units. The Foton Tunland (179 units) likewise lost its top-10 spot, falling to 12th in September.
Meanwhile, the BYD Shark 6 climbed a ranking to 13th with 157 units registered, finishing the month just ahead of the JMC Vigus (151 units). The next 2 spots likewise went to Chinese bakkies, with the LDV T60 (128 units) ending in 15th and the Changan Hunter (99 units) securing 16th.
Though the Mitsubishi Triton posted its highest tally of the year thus far – admittedly a modest 53 units – the Thai-built bakkie again finished down in 17th place. Next came the Kia Tasman (30 units), while the LDV Terron 9 (9 units) and Jeep Gladiator (3 units) both failed to make double digits.
How well did the new Chery Q EV sell in its launch month?
How well did the new Chery Q sell in South Africa in its launch month of September 2026? We have sales figures for the Chinese brand’s first EV in Mzansi…
Chery Q launched at start of September
Accounted for 7.1% of Chery SA’s total
Managed to outsell BYD’s Dolphin Surf
Orders for the new Chery Qopened in South Africa at the start of September 2026. So, how well did this Chinese electric vehicle (EV) sell in its launch month?
Well, according to figures reported to industry-representative body Naamsa, the Wuhu-based automaker’s local division registered 214 units of the Chery Q in September 2026, all sold via the dealer channel. For the sake of comparison, BYD Auto SA sold 150 units of the Dolphin Surf during the month.
That opening performance from the new Q helped the Chery brand reach a fresh sales high of 3 004 units in September, with local registrations increasing 8.7% month on month. Interestingly, that represented the first instance of the Chinese brand breaking through the 3 000-unit barrier in SA.
Drilling down into the individual-model sales figures, we see the marque’s first fully electric vehicle accounted for some 7.1% of its overall total. Within the Chery stable, the Q outsold both the Tiggo 8 (114 units) and the flagship Tiggo 9 (33 units), while finishing behind the Tiggo 7 (392 units) and the Tiggo 4 Cross (2 251 units).
As a reminder, the battery-powered Chery Q starts at R349 900, seeing it slot into 4th place on the list of SA’s most affordable EVs, behind the Geely E2 Aspire (R339 900), BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort (R341 900) and Dongfeng Box E2 430 (R349 000). Geely and Dongfeng unfortunately don’t currently report sales figures to Naamsa, so it’s not clear how many examples of the E2 and Box were sold in September.
The new Q is available in South Africa in 2 trim levels: Comfort and Elite (the latter priced at R389 900). Chery’s electric crossover measures 4 195 mm from front to back. That makes it 60 mm longer than Geely’s E2 and a considerable 270 mm lengthier than BYD’s Dolphin Surf.
The Q features a rear-mounted electric motor generating peak outputs of 90 kW and 115 Nm. Though a smaller battery pack is available in China, the SA market receives only the larger 42.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate item, which offers a claimed range of 400 km on the NEDC standard (and therefore likely sub-350 km on the more stringent WLTP cycle).
Inside the electric crossover, you’ll find a 15.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. The listed luggage capacity is 375 litres (expandable to 1 450 litres), while a separate front trunk offers an additional 70 litres of storage space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many units of the Chery Q were sold in South Africa during its September 2026 launch month?
A: Chery registered 214 units of the electric Q in September 2026, accounting for 7.1% of the brand’s total monthly sales and helping Chery SA break the 3 000-unit barrier for the first time with 3 004 overall registrations.
Q: What does the Chery Q cost in South Africa, and how does it rank among cheap EVs?
A: The Chery Q is priced from R349 900 for the Comfort trim and R389 900 for the Elite derivative, making it South Africa’s 4th most affordable electric vehicle.
Q: What are the motor, battery and range specifications of the Chery Q?
A: The Chery Q features a rear-mounted electric motor producing 90 kW and 115 Nm, paired with a 42.7 kWh battery pack that delivers a claimed driving range of up to 400 km (NEDC standard).
Toyota goes big! SA’s new-vehicle sales in September 2026
In September 2026, South Africa’s new-vehicle market broke through the 60 000-unit barrier, recording its 24th consecutive month of year-on-year growth. Here’s your full market overview, including a look at SA’s best-selling automakers…
New-vehicle sales up 12.7% year-on-year in Sept
Exports decline 18.8% year on year to 31 473 units
Toyota cracks 15 000-unit mark for 24.9% share
Suzuki posts its highest tally of the year thus far
Ford holds onto 4th position ahead of Hyundai
Isuzu leapfrogs Chery and GWM to grab 6th spot
Chery breaches 3 000-unit mark for first time
In September 2026, sales in South Africa’s new-vehicle market increased 12.7% year on year to a whopping 61 645 units, representing the local industry’s 24th straight month – yes, a full 2 years – of year-on-year growth and easily the highest total of the year thus far (beating March 2026 by quite a margin).
In fact, we believe September 2026 was the local industry’s best performance in several years (our records unfortunately don’t go back quite far enough to determine exactly when the market last hit 60 000 units). Furthermore, September’s effort was 6.5% up on the preceding month.
According to industry-representative body Naamsa, SA’s new-vehicle market has “continued to demonstrate notable resilience, defying expectations amid higher borrowing costs, persistent inflationary pressures and subdued economic growth”. That said, new-vehicle exports from South Africa fell a significant 18.8% year on year to 31 473 units.
But back to the local market. According to Naamsa, an estimated 81.4% of September 2026’s total reported domestic figure of 61 645 units represented sales via the dealership channel, while 13.8% were sales to the new-vehicle rental industry, 2.6% to government and 2.2% to industry corporate fleets.
Registrations in Mzansi’s new passenger-vehicle market increased 14.7% year on year to 44 291 units (with rental sales accounting for a strong 18.4% of that figure) in September. Meanwhile, local sales of new light-commercial vehicles (LCVs) grew 9.6% year on year to 14 361 units.
Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), described September’s results as “encouraging”, suggesting that the local market’s “stronger 3rd quarter gave dealers and manufacturers a “positive foundation for the final months of the year”.
“The opportunity now is to sustain that momentum by matching the vehicles and finance options available to what customers need and can afford,” Cohen said, before pointing out that rental-fleet purchases remained a “meaningful contributor to the market”.
Thanda Sithole, Senior Economist at FNB and WesBank, added that September’s performance showed “demand for vehicles remains resilient, even as consumers face higher borrowing costs and renewed pressure from fuel and other living expenses”.
“What is particularly encouraging from a financing perspective is that WesBank’s application data also indicates continued demand, with new-vehicle finance applications growing year-on-year and at a faster rate than total vehicle applications,” he revealed.
New-vehicle sales summary for September 2026
Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 61 645 units increased by 12.7% (6 939 units) compared to September 2025.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 44 291 units increased by 14.7% (5 676 units) compared to September 2025.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 14 361 units increased by 9.6% (1 262 units) compared to September 2025.
Export sales of 31 473 units decreased by 18.1% (7 309 units) compared to September 2025.
10 best-selling automakers in SA in September 2026
Suzuki hit its highest tally of the year so far in September.
In September 2026, Toyota SA Motors (including Lexus and Hino) not only again ranked as South Africa’s top-selling automaker but also posted its highest tally ever. Yes, the Japanese firm registered a hefty 15 366 units last month, representing an 11.2% month-on-month increase and a 24.9% market share.
Similarly, September proved to be Suzuki Auto SA‘s best performance of the year so far, with the brand registering 6 668 units – an increase of 2.5% over August’s effort – during the month. That saw it retain 2nd place ahead of Volkswagen Group Africa (including Audi), which ranked 3rd with 5 968 units (up 5.3%, month on month).
After grabbing 4th position in August with a 5-year sales high, Ford Motor Company of SA managed to keep hold of this spot in September, again breaching the 3 000-unit mark. In the end, the Blue Oval brand registered 3 190 units around Mzansi, representing a marginal 0.4% month-on-month decrease.
That meant Hyundai Automotive SA again had to settle for 5th place in September, despite local sales inching forward 0.8% month on month to 3 057 units. Interestingly, Isuzu Motors SA was right on the Motus-distributed brand’s tail, growing its total 19.4% month on month to 3 022 units and climbing 2 spots to 6th in the process.
Yet again, Chery SA posted a fresh sales high, with registrations increasing 8.7% month on month to 3 004 units in September. Despite representing the first instance of the Chinese brand breaking through the 3 000-unit barrier, Chery slipped a place to 7th. Meanwhile, GWM SA likewise found itself down a spot in 8th, even though sales increased 4.1% month on month to 2 700 units.
Jetour SA (2 036 units; up 4.3% month on month) and Kia SA (1 840 units; up 3.2% month on month) again closed out the top 10. So, which automakers fell just outside the top 10 in September? Well, Renault SA (1 711 units) again ranked 11th, while Omoda & Jaecoo SA (1 503 units) climbed a spot to 12th. Mahindra SA (1 398 units), BMW Group SA (1 396 units, including the Mini brand) and Tata Motors PV SA (883 units) closed out the top 15, as they did in August.
1. Toyota – 15 366 units
2. Suzuki – 6 668 units
3. Volkswagen Group – 5 968 units
4. Ford – 3 190 units
5. Hyundai – 3 057 units
6. Isuzu – 3 022 units
7. Chery – 3 004 units
8. GWM – 2 700 units
9. Jetour – 2 036 units
10. Kia – 1 840 units
SA’s new-vehicle sales outlook for Q4 2026
So, what can we expect from South Africa’s new-vehicle market in the final quarter of the year? Well, Naamsa warns that the “macro-economic environment” facing South African consumers and businesses has become “more challenging” in recent times, with renewed energy-driven inflationary pressures weighing on household purchasing power and the broader cost environment.
Still, the industry-representative body says much of the industry’s resilience is thanks to the “increasingly competitive and diversified structure” of SA’s new-vehicle market. It suggests the “expansion in the number of brands, models and price points available” has intensified competition and broadened access to mobility, while “attractive financing propositions are helping to sustain consumer demand”.
Meanwhile, NADA’s Cohen says September 2026’s impressive new-vehicle sales figures in South Africa provide “grounds for optimism” as the market enters the final quarter of the year.
“Sustaining that progress will depend on helping customers make affordable choices that work for them throughout ownership,” he says, adding that “affordability is measured in rands available at the end of each month”.
WesBank’s Sithole adds that as fuel and running costs become an increasingly important part of the vehicle-buying decision, consumers are looking beyond the monthly instalment to “understand the broader cost of ownership”.
“The instalment, insurance, maintenance and fuel costs all need to be considered when determining what is genuinely affordable. With the latest repo-rate increase still to feed through to repayments, the next few months will provide an important indication of how consumers continue to adapt.”
2026 Bakkie of the Year Shootout: 8-way drag race!
The local double-cab bakkie market is more competitive than ever, with fresh contenders, new powertrains and updated stalwarts all vying for top honours. To kick off the multi-part 2026 Bakkie of the Year Shootout, 8 of South Africa’s most popular double cabs line up side by side on an open runway for an all-out quarter-mile drag race.
From heavy-hitting V6s and high-output turbopetrols to trusty 4-cylinder turbodiesels, the 2026 Bakkie of the Year Shootout line-up covers every sub-segment of the double-cab bakkie market. To ensure fair driver assignments across the fleet, the keys were drawn completely at random before the bakkies lined up across the tarmac. Let’s find out how they fared on the strip!
The contenders: Diverse engines & power outputs
The starting grid features a massive variety of powertrains, ranging from lightweight efficiency to sheer cubic capacity.
Representing the high-power petrol brigade is the Volkswagen Amarok 2.3 TSI PanAmericana, packing a 2.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Generating 222 kW and 452 Nm of torque, its power-to-weight figures make it a formidable force on paper. Ford counters with the muscular Ranger V6 Tremor, bringing 3.0 litres of turbodiesel grunt to the table.
In the turbodiesel camp, the GWM P500 arrives with a new 3.0-litre diesel producing 170 kW and a massive 620 Nm of torque. Crucially, it is the only vehicle on the grid equipped with a factory launch-control system.
The remainder of the grid comprises popular 4-cylinder turbodiesel options:
With 4H engaged, traction systems dialled back and left feet firmly on the brakes, all 8 double cabs launched simultaneously across the wide runway for the first of 3 runs.
Right off the line, traction played a huge role. The lighter JAC T9 and the Mitsubishi Triton made fantastic starts, surprising several higher-powered rivals off the line. However, once moving, the high-output engines quickly asserted their dominance.
The petrol-powered Amarok made full use of its high-revving power band to leap out ahead, while the V6 Ranger broke away from the mid-pack to chase it down. Farther down the strip, a fierce photo-finish battle developed for 3rd spot, with the Hilux, Triton, JAC T9, Tasman and Isuzu fighting for every inch of tarmac.
For the second run, drivers adjusted their launch tactics to keep their respective engines right in the meat of their powerbands.
Off the line, the Isuzu D-Max and Hilux got away cleanly, but the raw torque of the GWM P500 began to tell as its driver dialled in the launch procedure. Once again, the Amarok surged ahead to establish a clear lead, closely followed by the hard-charging V6 Ranger.
Behind the front-runners, the fight for 3rd place was even tighter than in the opening heat. The JAC T9 put in an exceptionally strong showing, potentially holding off a charging pack that included the Hilux, Triton, Tasman and P500, resulting in a dramatic finish across the line.
Race 3: The final drag strip decider
The 3rd and final run saw the best launches of the day. The Isuzu D-Max executed a flawless get-away, holding its bumper ahead of larger-engined rivals through the initial metres.
As the speed built down the strip, the hierarchy established itself once more at the sharp end of the field, but the real drama unfolded in the middle order. A thrilling, nose-to-nose duel erupted between the GWM P500 and the Toyota Hilux, while the Mitsubishi Triton and Kia Tasman engaged in a bumper-to-bumper tussle all the way to the finish line.
Which double-cab bakkie took ultimate honours on the runway, and how did your favorite double-cab perform across all 3 runs? Watch the full video to see the final results and exact finish order.
Porsche 911 Turbo S (2026) Launch Review
With 523 kW, twin electric turbochargers and a Nürburgring lap time that would embarrass dedicated track cars, the updated Porsche 911 Turbo S is the most powerful production 911 ever built. But as we discovered during a recent test drive in the Western Cape, this incredible machine is not only about headline numbers…
Arriving at the test drive event with memories of its sibling – the raw, fizzing GT3 Touring – still fresh in my mind, I will admit to wondering whether this encounter would be less thrilling, given the 911 Turbo S‘ positioning as a fast GT car. It only takes leaning onto the throttle pedal with intent once to banish all such thoughts. The violence. The fury. And yet, such control. But more on that later…
The 911 Turbo S does not compete with the GT3. It exists on its own plane entirely and customers are unlikely to consider one in place of the other. Where the GT3 Touring is a precision instrument stripped to its essential purpose (yet remaining more usable than most supercars), the Turbo S is something more complex. In a different but no less remarkable way, it is a car that is absurdly, explosively fast, yet composed enough to use every single day, even over long distances.
The updated 911 Turbo S is the most powerful production 911 Porsche has ever built. Maximum power output stands at 523 kW, with that power peak available from 6 500 to 7 000 rpm. Perhaps even more importantly, maximum torque (800 Nm) remains on tap from as low as 2 300 to 6 000 rpm. This translates to immediate and immense throttle response. Further reducing lag are two electric motors (one per turbocharger) that spin each turbo to working speed almost instantaneously before exhaust gases take over.
The 1.9 kWh T-Hybrid battery is borrowed from the GTS and weighs just 28 kg. The compact electric motor is integrated into the eight-speed PDK gearbox, transmitting power to the 911’s all-wheel-drive system. Despite the added weight of the hybrid components – the car is 85 kg heavier overall than its predecessor – the latest Turbo S is notably faster.
The Turbo S Coupé is claimed to blast from rest to 100 kph in 2.5 seconds – 0.2 seconds quicker than its predecessor. It reaches 200 kph half a second faster (in 8.4 seconds), with a top speed of 322 kph. At the Nürburgring, a development car posted a lap time 14 seconds faster than the previous iteration (7:03.92).
What is the Porsche 911 Turbo S like to drive?
The exact same Western Cape roads that turned my recent GT3 Touring drive into a symphony of mechanical theatre revealed the very different, yet intoxicating character of the Turbo S. The cabin is immediately and noticeably quieter. The ride is more compliant over road imperfections. The overall ambience, even in Sport mode, is several degrees of refinement removed from the GT3’s intentional, unfiltered directness. But do not for a moment imagine the Turbo S as being soft.
Put your foot down from pretty much any speed, in almost any gear, and the car simply catapults towards the horizon. This is a car with big lungs; there is a relentless, chest-compressing wave of power under your right foot. The vastness of the power reserves means you are very likely to run out of straight road long before the car runs out of accelerative force. It lacks the crescendo of a naturally aspirated engine building through its rev range, but in its place is something akin to the fury of a sustained, unstoppable surge.
And yet, the Turbo S never feels out of control or unwieldy. This is perhaps its most impressive engineering achievement: 523 kW in a rear-engined sports car should not feel this nimble and responsive. Far from being intimidating, it encourages the driver to push even harder, combining this sense of control with a complete lack of vagueness around the edges. The all-wheel-drive system and electro-hydraulic ehPDCC roll-control work together to keep the Turbo S planted through direction and surface changes that would unsettle lesser machinery. It is almost disconcertingly easy to drive quickly.
One specification note for prospective buyers: the test car was fitted with optional carbon-fibre-backed bucket seats (R132 340 extra), which are considerably firmer than the standard adaptive 18-way Sports Seats Plus. For those looking to lean into the GT touring character of the Turbo S, the standard seats are likely the more sensible choice for daily use.
Active aero and dynamics
Where the GT3’s aerodynamic story is about reducing pitch and maximising downforce through static, carefully shaped components, the Turbo S pursues a different goal: intelligent adaptability. The active aerodynamic system—comprising vertical cooling air flaps at the front, an active front diffuser, an adjustable front spoiler lip, and an extendable, tilting rear wing—works in sync to continuously optimise airflow depending on conditions.
The electro-hydraulic ehPDCC roll-control system comes standard on the Turbo S, enabled by the car’s 400V high-voltage architecture. It reduces body roll during quick direction changes and improves agility when entering and exiting corners, all while improving ride comfort. It would take a very brave driver (and immense run-off areas) to safely discover the cornering limits of this machine.
Stopping power is immense, setting a new benchmark in the evolution of the 911. The ceramic front and rear discs now measure 420 mm and 410 mm respectively (up 20 mm compared to the previous model), making them the largest ever fitted to a two-door Porsche road car. New, 10 mm wider rear tyres (325/30 ZR21) further improve dry handling while maintaining wet-weather performance, paired with 255/35 ZR20s up front.
Design & Interior ambience
The evolution of 911 design has always been a story of subtle detail, even within the same generation. On the 911 Turbo S, the wider body and broader track compared to Carrera models are immediately evident. The air intakes in the rear haunches feeding air to the engine and rear components serve as a clear visual signature. From behind, striking ventilation openings accentuate the car’s width alongside that rear wing, which can be left in a subtle lowered position or raised for visual aggression.
Look closely and you will spot accents finished in Turbonite – a dark, chrome-like finish reserved exclusively for Turbo models. It appears on the Porsche crest, rear badge lettering, rear wing slat inserts, side window strips, and the striking new centre-lock wheels. These Turbonite elements perfectly align with the Turbo S’s ethos of serious intent over ostentation.
Inside, the Turbonite theme continues across the door panels, steering wheel, dashboard surrounds, centre console, Sport Chrono stopwatch face, instrument cluster and decorative stitching on the seat belts and controls.
Two new interior details make their debut here: carbon-structured trim strips with Neodyme accents, and a perforated microfibre headliner with black backing. As ever, solidity is evident in every surface, control action, and complete absence of creaks or rattles, even over rough pavement.
The Sports Seats Plus feature Turbo S-specific embossing on the seat surfaces and door panels – a homage to design details from the original 930 Turbo. HD Matrix LED headlights come standard, as does the Sport Chrono Package. The rear seat package for the Coupé is available at no extra charge, offering Turbo S buyers optional four-seat usability.
How much does the Porsche 911 Turbo S cost in South Africa?
The 911 Turbo S is available in Coupé and Cabriolet body styles in South Africa, with base pricing set at R5 722 000 and R5 991 000 respectively. Pricing includes a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. Of course, a wide range of optional extras can be explored via Porsche South Africa’s online configurator.
Final thoughts
The GT3 and Turbo S will appeal to distinctly different buyers, even if both are, at their core, sensational driving machines. Blisteringly fast, usable every day, and engineered to an extraordinary standard, both cars make their asking price feel, if not modest, but entirely justified.
The GT3 Touring may be the more raw, communicative, and emotionally demanding option, but pigeonholing the Turbo S as merely a soft tourer would be a grave mistake. The relentless wave of power– available at any speed, in any gear – is a force the GT3’s naturally aspirated engine simply cannot match for sheer, sustained violence. The Turbo S leans decisively into the daily driver and fast tourer side of the 911 spectrum without sacrificing dynamic brilliance or agility.
If you lived in Germany, you could comfortably cover 500 km, drop into the Nürburgring for a lap or two, and drive home without a second thought for mechanical strain. Where you can fully explore its capabilities in South Africa remains an open question, but wherever you drive it, you can rest assured you are piloting one of the most complete sports cars on the planet.
Lamborghini Urus SE Performante (2026) Price & Specs
The new Lamborghini Urus SE Performante is headed to South Africa as the most powerful iteration of the Italian firm’s super-SUV yet. Here’s what it will cost…
Performante variant coming to SA
V8 PHEV set-up generates 596 kW
Most powerful Urus derivative yet
Maximum speed listed as 312 kph
To cost R625k more than Urus SE
The new Lamborghini Urus SE Performante is on the way to South Africa as the most powerful version of the Sant’Agata Bolognese-based automaker’s super-SUV yet. And we now know how much this new flagship Urus will cost.
Courtesy of a timely heads-up from the vehicle-information specialists over at duoporta.com, we can confirm the new Urus SE Performante will be priced from R5 500 000 in South Africa. For the record, that’s some R625 000 more than the Urus SE (588 kW/950 Nm) that arrived here in mid-2024.
Like that model, the new Performante variant employs a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain featuring a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine paired with an electric motor (the latter positioned “upstream” of the 8-speed automatic transmission). However, this likewise all-wheel-drive flagship derivative’s system outputs have been hiked to 596 kW and 1 000 Nm.
That, of course, makes it the most powerful Urus yet. Lamborghini furthermore bills its new Performante-badged derivative as the “fastest super-SUV in the world”, listing a 0-100 kph time of 3.3 seconds (a tenth quicker than the SE), a 0-200 kph time of 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 312 kph. In addition, the 25.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack affords the Urus SE Performante a claimed electric range of “over 60 km”.
Compared to the Urus SE, the Performante benefits from a 32 kg reduction in weight, meaning it tips the scales at 2 473 kg. Lamborghini says this weight loss has been achieved via the extensive use of carbon fibre, including for components such as the bonnet, roof, wheel arches, side skirts and rear diffuser.
In addition, the exhaust system – which was developed in collaboration with Slovenian specialist Akrapovič – features various titanium components, including the silencer and tailpipes. This new titanium set-up offers a claimed weight saving of 10 kg.
The Performante is further set apart by new dual-chamber air suspension, a dedicated “Rally” driving mode (calibrated to offer what Lamborghini describes as “maximum driving excitement on loose surfaces”), a new 12.3-inch central touchscreen, a revised steering-wheel design, fresh aerodynamic solutions and an “optimised” powertrain cooling system.
What does the new Urus SE Performante cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Urus SE
R4 875 000
Urus SE Performante
R5 500 000
The prices above include a 3-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 3-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does the new Lamborghini Urus SE Performante cost in South Africa?
A: The Lamborghini Urus SE Performante is priced from R5 500 000 in South Africa, which is R625 000 more than the Urus SE.
Q: What are its performance specifications and top speed?
A: Powered by a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain producing 596 kW and 1 000 Nm, the Urus SE Performante reaches 0–100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and achieves a top speed of 312 km/h.
Q: How much lighter is the Performante compared to the SE?
A: The Performante model benefits from a 32 kg weight reduction (tipping the scales at 2 473 kg), thanks to extensive use of carbon fibre and a titanium Akrapovič exhaust system.
New BMW 3 Series sedan revealed and SA line-up confirmed
The new G50-generation BMW 3 Series sedan has been revealed, featuring styling familiar from the i3 saloon, with the 326 kW M350 xDrive already confirmed for SA…
G50-generation 3 Series officially debuts
52 mm longer than outgoing G20 sedan
Adopts styling from NA0-series i3 saloon
6-cylinder M350 xDrive boasts 326 kW
Pair of ICE units and EV confirmed for SA
No mention of turbodiesel powertrains
Meet the new G50-generation BMW 3 Series sedan. While its “Neue Klasse” styling looks decidedly similar to that of the new NA0-series fully electric i3 saloon revealed earlier this year, this model is seemingly based on an updated version of the outgoing G20-series sedan’s CLAR platform.
Set to be produced at the brand’s Dingolfing factory in Germany (as opposed to its Munich facility, where the i3 will be built), the 8th-generation 3 Series sedan is scheduled to launch in South Africa in the opening quarter of 2027.
The M350 xDrive (left) and i3 50 xDrive.
The G50-series model measures 4 765 mm from bumper to bumper, making it some 52 mm longer than the outgoing G20-generation saloon. Interestingly, the wheelbase has also grown to 2 860 mm, meaning there’s an extra 9 mm between the axles.
So, what sort of powertrains are on the cards? Well, BMW Group South Africa has thus far confirmed 3 derivatives for the local market: the fully electric i3 50 xDrive (345 kW/645 Nm) along with the 320 and M350 xDrive. That suggests the 275 kW i3 40 xDrive and the upcoming “ultra-potent” i3 M60 xDrive won’t initially be on the menu for SA buyers.
The 326 kW M350 xDrive has already been locked in for SA.
All petrol engines feature 48V mild-hybrid technology, with BMW furthermore revealing that a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant is planned for 2027 (though that derivative has also not been confirmed for Mzansi). Fascinatingly, the company’s local and international press material makes no mention of turbodiesel engines.
Still, it’s the M Performance derivative that will likely grab headlines, with the M350 xDrive described as the “combustion-engine flagship” of the new 3 Series range. This variant employs a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-6 petrol engine (with mild-hybrid technology), delivering 326 kW and 580 Nm to all 4 corners via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
A look at the new M350 xDrive’s cabin.
The German automaker claims the M350 xDrive – which will effectively replace the outgoing M340i xDrive (285 kW/500 Nm) – can complete the 0-100 kph sprint in 4.1 seconds, before topping out at an electronically capped 250 kph. It features a new “Drift Moment” function, which the company says “allows the driver to send the engine’s power to the rear wheels only”.
The 320, meanwhile, employs a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol motor (again with mild-hybrid assistance) delivering 155 kW and 330 Nm to the rear wheels. There’s also a 318 with 115 kW and 250 Nm, though this derivative isn’t on the cards for SA.
The new 320 is also confirmed for Mzansi.
Inside the new 3 Series, you’ll find what BMW terms its latest “Panoramic iDrive” set-up, comprising a full-width “Panoramic Vision” display, a 3D head-up display, a 17.9-inch central screen and the multifunctional steering wheel. BMW says it will offer a choice of 4 interior designs, each offering a “harmoniously co-ordinated selection of colours and materials”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will the new G50-generation BMW 3 Series sedan launch in South Africa?
A: The 8th-generation BMW 3 Series sedan is scheduled to arrive in South African showrooms during the first quarter of 2027.
Q: Which G50 BMW 3 Series models and engines are confirmed for South Africa?
A: BMW Group South Africa has confirmed three derivatives: the 155 kW 320, the flagship 326 kW M350 xDrive (replacing the M340i xDrive) and the fully electric i3 50 xDrive producing 345 kW.
Q: What are the performance specs of the new BMW M350 xDrive?
A: Powered by a mild-hybrid 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-6 engine delivering 326 kW and 580 Nm, the M350 xDrive accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and features a new “Drift Moment” rear-wheel-drive mode.
