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.
Billed as the “most driver-focused Continental GT ever”, Bentley’s rear-driven Supersports is coming to SA in limited numbers. Here’s what this extreme 2-seater will cost…
Just 500 units of Supersports to be made
Non-hybrid V8, rear-wheel drive and 2 seats
“Most driver-focused Continental GT ever”
Whopping R5-million more than GT Speed
The extreme new Bentley Continental GT Supersports – which features rear-wheel drive, a 2-seater cabin and a weight of below 2 000 kg – will be available in South Africa in limited numbers. And we now know how much this coupé will cost.
Yes, thanks to the super-savvy vehicle-information specialists over at duoporta.com, we can confirm the new Continental GT Supersports will have a starting price of R11 644 000 in SA. For context, that’s a whopping R5 110 000 more than the Continental GT Speed (R6 534 000) and some R4 587 000 pricier than the Continental GT Mulliner (R7 057 000).
Billed as the “most driver-focused Continental GT ever” and only the 4th Supersports model in the Crewe-based automaker’s 107-year history, the newcomer will start rolling off the assembly line in the United Kingdom in the 4th quarter of 2026. Bentley says production will be “strictly limited” to 500 individually numbered units.
Interestingly, while other Continental GT derivatives employ a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain and all-wheel drive, the Supersports instead uses a non-hybrid version of the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 (complete with a “stronger crankcase, uprated cylinder heads and larger turbos”) and rear-wheel drive.
Peak system outputs stand at 490 kW and 800 Nm (down on the electrified GT Speed’s figures of 575 kW and 100 Nm), while the sprint from zero to 100 kph takes a claimed 3.7 seconds, with top speed pegged at 310 kph. The ZF-sourced 8-speed dual-clutch transmission has been “redeveloped” for the Supersports, complete with uprated clutches and a new shifting strategy.
The new Supersports is the first rear-wheel-drive Continental road car ever, with power fed exclusively to the back axle (which features a 16 mm wider-than-standard track) through an eLSD, assisted by torque vectoring by brake. Bentley has opted to retain rear-wheel steering “for maximum agility and stability”, while it claims calibrations for the steering, suspension, traction management and stability control systems are “all new”.
The British firm furthermore says the cross-plane V8 engine breathes though a “full-length” titanium exhaust developed in conjunction with Slovenian specialist Akrapovič and tuned to be “significantly more characterful than any previous Bentley”.
Air springs and a 48V electric anti-roll control system come standard, while braking is taken care of by what Bentley claims is “the largest automotive braking system in the world” – 440 mm carbon-silicon-carbide discs on the front axle (clamped by 10-piston callipers) and 410 mm discs (with 4-piston callipers) at the rear.
The rear-cabin environment – including sound insulation – has been deleted and replaced by a carbon-fibre tub, turning the vehicle into a strict 2-seater. Further weight savings come from not only the ditching of the hybrid and all-paw systems but also from extensive use of carbon fibre (with the roof, front bumper, side sills, rear diffuser, fixed rear spoiler, side mirrors, engine cover and more fashioned from this material).
Up front, you’ll find lightweight sports seats, which feature “increased lateral bolstering” and a lower mounting position, though interestingly retain power adjustment and heating. Various “Supersports” badges are scattered around the cabin, while there’s also an individually numbered plaque on the centre console.
What does the Continental GT Supersports cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Continental GT
R5 269 000
Continental GT S
R5 532 000
Continental GTC
R5 795 000
Continental GTC S
R6 085 000
Continental GT Azure
R6 360 000
Continental GT Speed
R6 534 000
Continental GTC Azure
R6 815 000
Continental GT Mulliner
R7 057 000
Continental GTC Speed
R7 083 000
Continental GTC Mulliner
R7 651 000
Continental GT Supersports
R11 644 000
The prices above include Bentley’s 3-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 3-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does the new Bentley Continental GT Supersports cost in South Africa?
A: The limited-edition Bentley Continental GT Supersports is priced from R11 644 000 in South Africa, making it over R5-million more expensive than the Continental GT Speed.
Q: What engine and drivetrain power the Bentley Continental GT Supersports?
A: Unlike other (plug-in hybrid) Continental GT models, the Supersports features a non-hybrid twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 sending 490 kW and 800 Nm exclusively to the rear wheels via a redeveloped 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Q: How many units of the Bentley Continental GT Supersports will be produced globally?
A: Production of the extreme 2-seater coupe is strictly limited to 500 individually numbered units worldwide.
More affordable, petrol-powered Kia Carens arrives in SA
The Kia Carens range has been expanded to include a more affordable, petrol-powered derivative. Here’s how much you can expect to pay.
The new Kia Carens 1.5 LS lowers the range starting point by R40 000 and is priced at a smidge under R360 000. The key differentiator between this new entry-level model can be found under the bonnet. The 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine is naturally aspirated and makes 84 kW and 144 Nm. In comparison, the turbocharged diesel engine makes 85 kW and 250 Nm.
You’d think there’d be a large performance and efficiency discrepancy, but the newer petrol-powered Carens is said to hit 100 kph in 11.1 seconds, fractionally quicker than the diesel’s 12 seconds. In terms of economy, the petrol has a claimed figure of 7.2 L/100 km and a fuel tank range of 625 km (5L/100 km and 900 km).
The petrol-powered Kia Carens is only available in LS trim, which comes with 16-inch wheels, partial LED rear combination lamps on the exterior. Inside, there’s a height-adjustable driver’s seat with combination cloth and artificial leather upholstery.
When it comes to tech and connectivity, the Carens comes with an 8-inch infotainment display, 4.2-inch TFT LCD cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. It also features rear park distance control, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, hill start assist as well as 6 airbags.
How much does the petrol-powered Kia Carens cost in South Africa?
All Carens models are sold as standard with 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty (inclusive of road side assistance) as well as a three-year/45 000 km service plan.
What engine powers the petrol-powered Kia Carens in South Africa?
The petrol variant of the Kia Carens in South Africa is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated 4-cylinder Smartstream petrol engine that produces 85 kW of power and 144 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
How much does the petrol Kia Carens cost in South Africa?
The entry-level petrol-powered Kia Carens 1.5 LS derivative is priced from R359 995 in South Africa.
How many seats does the petrol Kia Carens have?
The petrol-powered Kia Carens features a 7-seat cabin configuration across three rows, including a one-touch electric tumble mechanism for second-row seats to allow easy access to the third row.
What is the fuel consumption of the petrol Kia Carens 1.5?
The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol Kia Carens carries a claimed average combined fuel consumption of approximately 7.2 litres per 100 km.
What warranty and service plan come standard with the Kia Carens?
The Kia Carens comes standard with Kia’s 5-year / unlimited kilometre manufacturer warranty, 5 years of unlimited roadside assistance, and a 3-year / 45,000 km pre-paid service plan.
Nissan Tekton (2026) Launch Review
The Nissan Tekton launches at a time when the brand needs more products to remain competitive in the South African market. Built on the same platform as the much-loved Renault Duster, the Tekton aims to fill the gap between the Magnite and the X-Trail left by the recently departed Qashqai. Has the Tekton done enough to differentiate itself from its Renault sibling?
It’s difficult to review the new Tekton without considering the third-generation Renault Duster. Because both vehicles share the same platform, engines, most of their design, interiors and underlying technologies, choosing between them can be tough for consumers. Both offer essentially the same driving experience, with the primary differences coming down to styling tweaks.
The Tekton is a good-looking vehicle. It blends rugged styling cues with sleek lines, creating an athletic profile that suggests it can tackle off-roading with ease. Adding to this rugged persona is an impressive 212 mm of ground clearance. Sadly, the Tekton only comes in a front-wheel-drive configuration. Realistically, you’ll only be able to tackle light gravel roads in this crossover – which is a pity because it really looks the part.
Nissan has tried its best to give the Tekton a distinct personality by redesigning the front end. It features bold, aggressive styling with a silver skid-plate-style bumper opening into a wide grille that seamlessly integrates the LED headlights. A light bar stretches across the front edge of the bonnet, further modernising the nose.
The side profile and rear are where you see the Duster DNA seeping through most, although the Tekton again utilises a full-width LED light bar across the tailgate. Touches of silver trim on the rear bumper give the Nissan a chic flair that the Duster perhaps lacks.
What’s the inside of the Tekton like?
The interior is a pleasant place to be. The front seats are supportive and substantial, while the facia cleanly integrates a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display and a digital instrument cluster, creating a modern, tech-focused feel. Nissan hasn’t shied away from adding colour, either – you’ll find rose-gold accents around the centre console, steering wheel and door panels.
In the back, those chunky front seats do steal a bit of legroom, but three rear passengers can still sit comfortably, provided they aren’t too tall. Boot space sits at a healthy 518 litres, making family road trips a genuine possibility.
How does it drive?
On the road, the Tekton feels pretty much identical to the Duster. The suspension damping leans toward the firmer side, but in a good way: it allows the Tekton to handle corners with confidence while still remaining forgiving enough to spare your back on longer journeys.
Two engines are on offer: a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder producing 74 kW and 160 Nm (badged as the T160), and a 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 115 kW and 260 Nm (badged as the T260). Four trim levels are available, ranging from the entry-level Visia and mid-tier Acenta to the top-spec Tekna and Tekna+ variants. Pricing spans R339 999 to R529 999.
Final thoughts
What would make a consumer buy the Nissan over the Renault? This is where personal preference comes into play. Thankfully, due to the design changes of the Nissan, the vehicles don’t look exactly the same. What it would really boil down to is resale value. Renault sells more cars than Nissan locally by roughly 1 000 units a month. This means there will likely be more demand for the cars like the Duster compared to the Tekton. For this reason, we would advise a consumer to always opt for the more popular car for better resale value. That being said, the Tekton is a great crossover to consider.
Cars.co.za Industry Report 2026 reveals SA auto market transformed by budget strains and Chinese OEM surge
A landmark study from Cars.co.za exposes how affordability constraints, changing vehicle finance trends and a 72% surge in Chinese vehicle sales are fundamentally altering consumer buying behaviour across South Africa.
South Africa’s automotive sector continues to navigate a turbulent macroeconomic landscape, but the latest data from the Cars.co.za Industry Report 2026 reveals a market undergoing a rapid, structural transformation. Driven by persistent household budget constraints, evolving vehicle asset finance trends and a dramatic shift in consumer brand preferences, the local motor industry is being reshaped from the ground up.
The landmark report combines national sales data, vehicle finance statistics and proprietary lead-generation metrics from South Africa’s leading automotive marketplace to offer an unprecedented look into consumer buying behaviour, OEM performance, and market projections.
Here are the key takeaways from the Cars.co.za Industry Report 2026 defining the South African motoring landscape.
Cars.co.za Industry Report 2026 shows surging sales amid household strains
Despite persistent economic pressure, soaring living costs and elevated interest rates, overall market demand has shown remarkable resilience. A standout moment came in mid-2026, when monthly new passenger vehicle sales surged to levels not seen in over a decade; July alone recorded the highest single-month sales volume since September 2014.
However, this top-line recovery masks significant underlying stress on consumer wallets. Fluctuating fuel prices and high borrowing costs continue to dictate buying patterns, forcing shoppers to re-evaluate their priorities. Price (cited by 70.8% of survey respondents) and fuel efficiency (52.5%) stand out as the primary factors driving vehicle-purchasing decisions.
The demographic landscape of active car buyers is also shifting rapidly. First-time buyers now represent the largest single category of shoppers on the Cars.co.za platform at 37.6%, while millennials (aged 28 to 43) make up the dominant age demographic at 50.5%. As these younger generations enter the vehicle ownership cycle, their preferences are fundamentally altering traditional brand loyalty.
The Chinese OEMs are gaining a stronger foothold
Perhaps the most significant structural shift detailed in the Cars.co.za Industry Report 2026 is the rise of Chinese original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Once considered niche players in the South African market, Chinese brands have aggressively captured market share by offering high levels of standard features, modern design and competitive pricing.
Chinese manufacturers now account for approximately 22% of total passenger and light commercial vehicle (LCV) sales in South Africa. The speed of this expansion is underscored by quarterly growth metrics: year-on-year sales for Chinese OEMs expanded by an astonishing 72% in Q2 2026. By contrast, sales for traditional legacy OEMs grew by just 3% over the same period.
Chinese models like the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro have become staples for budget-conscious families.
This influx is particularly pronounced in the compact crossover and SUV segments. Models like the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro and the Haval Jolion have become staple choices for budget-conscious families. In the commercial space, GWM’s P-Series range continues to make inroads into a segment historically dominated by Toyota, Ford and Isuzu.
Cars.co.za Industry Report 2026 highlights shift in finance dynamics & price brackets
Vehicle asset-finance data from the Cars.co.za Industry Report 2026 highlights how affordability constraints are reshaping credit approval patterns and loan distribution across price bands. Growth in vehicle financing is increasingly concentrated among young adult and early career buyers who are turning to flexible financing options to secure personal mobility.
Financed buying volume growth is strongly concentrated in the R250k-R500k bracket, where compact SUVs like the Kia Sonet thrive.
Crucially, the report notes a widening polarisation in vehicle price categories. Financed buying volume growth is strongly concentrated in the R250 000 to R500 000 bracket – where value-focused compact SUVs and well-equipped entry-level vehicles thrive – as well as the premium segment above R500 000.
Conversely, the traditional sub-R250 000 new vehicle market continues to contract sharply. As fewer new cars are offered under the R250k mark due to inflation and rising production costs, entry-level buyers are increasingly pushed into the pre-owned market or forced to stretch their budgets into higher loan tiers.
H1 2026 bestsellers: The local champions
When it comes to actual sales figures on dealer floors during the first half of 2026, established local favourites continue to fight hard to maintain their podium positions against incoming competition.
The VW Polo Vivo remains SA’s favourite passenger car, but its title is under threat from newcomers.
In the passenger car category, Volkswagen’s locally built Polo Vivo retained its title as South Africa’s bestselling new car, moving 12 846 units in H1.
However, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro family secured a stunning second place overall with 11 322 units, proving that Chinese contenders are now competing directly for overall market leadership. Suzuki’s ever-popular Swift rounded out the top three with 10 469 units, followed by the Hyundai Grand i10 (8 625 units) and Toyota’s locally manufactured Corolla Cross (7 141 units).
The light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment remains a fiercely contested arena, dominated by South Africa’s love for the bakkie:
SA’s endearing love affair with the Toyota Hilux continues, but other players are making their mark in the LCV segment.
While the Hilux, Ranger and D-Max maintain a strong lead, the steady rise of Mahindra and GWM in the top five underlines the growing acceptance of alternative value offerings in the workhorse and leisure bakkie sectors.
Digital intent: What South Africans are searching for
While sales figures show what consumers ultimately purchase, Cars.co.za lead generation data offers a direct window into consumer desire and shopping intent. Lead share measures the volume of serious buying inquiries submitted to dealers through the platform.
The Volkswagen Polo topped the lead generation rankings for 2026, commanding 6.71% of all total leads, closely followed by the Toyota Hilux (5.15%) and Volkswagen Polo Vivo (4.72%). Ford’s Ranger took fourth place with 4.16%, while the Mercedes-Benz C-Class captured fifth position with 1.97%, demonstrating strong ongoing interest in aspirational pre-owned luxury sedans.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the fifth most searched used model on Cars.co.za, showing South Africans’ ongoing interest in luxury vehicles in the second-hand market.
As South Africa moves through the second half of 2026, the automotive market stands at an unprecedented crossroads. While economic realities continue to test consumer purchasing power, the rapid expansion of feature-packed, competitively priced options is giving South African motorists more choices than ever before. Manufacturers that adapt quickly to these changing demographic expectations, strict budget limits, and shifting finance models will ultimately control the road ahead.
Scoop! We have local pricing for the new 360 kW JAC T9 PHEV, which looks set to grab the title of SA’s most powerful double-cab bakkie. Here’s what it will cost…
Set to debut as SA’s most powerful double cab
PHEV powertrain offers 360 kW and 674 Nm
Will undercut Shark 6 Performance by R280k
Wondering what the JAC T9 PHEV will cost in South Africa? Well, wonder no more: after some extensive digging, Cars.co.za can finally confirm pricing for a long-awaited model that looks set to grab the title of SA’s most powerful double-cab bakkie.
Back in December 2022, the Chinese brand’s local division suggested the T9 PHEV would arrive “at the end of 2023”. The company later shifted this targeted launch date to the 2nd quarter of 2025. Then, in July 2026, we noticed the plug-in hybrid derivative was finally listed on JAC Motors SA’s website as “coming soon”.
Now, we can confirm what the plug-in version of the T9 will cost when it finally launches at some point in the 4th quarter of the year. According to our information, the new T9 Double Cab 2.0 PHEV Super Lux 4×4 will be priced from R869 900 at launch. For the record, that’s some R180 000 more than the erstwhile T9 flagship, the turbodiesel-powered 2.0CTI 4WD Hunter (R689 900).
That said, based on this pricing, the new T9 PHEV will undercut the 350 kW BYD Shark 6 Performance (R1 149 900) by a whopping R280 000, while also coming in a considerable R130 000 lower than the 321 kW Shark 6 Premium (R999 900).
JAC Motors SA’s website says the T9 PHEV will boast peak power of 360 kW and maximum torque of 674 Nm. From what we can tell, the PHEV powertrain comprises a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine (160 kW/370 Nm), a pair of electric motors (one on each axle) and a 31.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack.
That would see the T9 PHEV snatch the title of SA’s most powerful double-cab bakkie from the Shark 6 Performance, which generates 350 kW and 700 Nm courtesy of its PHEV powertrain. The fully electric Geely Riddara RD6 Apex AWD is next with 315 kW, ahead of the Ford Ranger Raptor on 292 kW (from a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine). Still, the upcoming production version of Chery’s KP31 diesel PHEV bakkie (with 350 kW) looks set to beat the latter 2 models in the power stakes.
Though detailed local specifications for the T9 PHEV have yet to be released, the bakkie – which measures 5 330 mm long, just like the turbodiesel derivatives – has a listed all-electric range of 100 km (according to the NEDC standard) and a claimed combined range of some 1 005 km in fellow right-hand-drive market Australia. Payload and braked towing capacity in that country come in at 915 kg and 3 500 kg, respectively.
What does the JAC T9 PHEV cost in South Africa?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
T9 Double Cab 2.0CTI Lux 4×2
R549 900
T9 Double Cab 2.0CTI Super Lux 4×2
R599 900
T9 Double Cab 2.0CTI Lux 4×4
R609 900
T9 Double Cab 2.0CTI Hunter 4×2
R629 900
T9 Double Cab 2.0CTI Black Edition 4×4
R629 900
T9 Double Cab 2.0CTI Super Lux 4×4
R659 900
T9 Double Cab 2.0CTI Hunter Black Edition 4×4
R689 900
T9 Double Cab 2.0CTI Hunter 4×4
R689 900
T9 Double Cab 2.0 PHEV Super Lux 4×4
R869 900
The prices above include JAC’s 5-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty (plus an 8-year/150 000 km battery-specific warranty in the case of the PHEV) and the company’s newly launched 7-year/100 000 km service plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What does the new JAC T9 PHEV cost in South Africa?
A: According to Cars.co.za, the JAC T9 Double Cab 2.0 PHEV Super Lux 4×4 is set to launch at a starting price of R869 900 in South Africa.
Q: What are the performance specifications and outputs of the JAC T9 PHEV?
A: It combines a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine with dual electric motors and a 31.2 kWh battery pack to produce peak outputs of 360 kW and 674 Nm, effectively making it the most powerful double-cab bakkie in the country.
Q: How does the price and power of the JAC T9 PHEV compare to the BYD Shark 6?
A: At R869 900, the 360 kW model looks set to undercut the 350 kW BYD Shark 6 Performance (R1 149 900) by R280 000, while offering 10 kW more peak power.
Which body style – single cab or double cab – is driving the GWM P-Series bakkie range’s overall sales volume in South Africa? We have the figures…
Year-to-date sales figures revealed
Double cabs account for over 88%
P300 single cab reaches 567 units
Ever wondered about the GWM P-Series’ sales split between the single- and double-cab body styles in South Africa? Well, we have some intriguing information that sheds a little light on the topic.
Yes, Andrew Hibbert, Lead Data Analyst at Lightstone Auto, recently shared a fascinating sales statistic with Cars.co.za, confirming to us that GWM South Africa registered 4 204 units of its P-Series in the local double-cab segment over the opening 8 months of 2026.
According to our records, which are based on figures reported to Naamsa, the Chinese automaker has sold a total of 4 771 units of the P-Series – across both the single- and double-cab segments – year to date, at the end of August 2026 (almost matching its 2025 tally of 4 926 units).
A spot of arithmetic therefore suggests that GWM has registered 567 units of the P300 single cab during this 8-month reporting period. That translates to 11.9% of the bakkie’s overall figure, with the double-cab body style thus accounting for the remaining 88.1%.
As a reminder, the P-Series portfolio includes the P300 (offered in both body styles) and the P500 (available exclusively in dual-cab form and now powered by a new 3.0-litre turbodiesel motor). Priced from R414 950 to R699 900, the 11-strong P300 line-up comprises 2 single-cab derivatives and 9 double-cab variants.
In February 2025, the refreshed GWM P300 debuted in South Africa in 2.4TD form – initially offered only in LT and LTD guise – before the Chinese firm’s local division added new LS derivatives in July of that year.
By September 2025, the base P300 2.0TD SX variants (including a pair of single-cab derivatives) had arrived to complete the facelifted P-Series range, with these workhorse variants available exclusively with the older 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which body style dominates GWM P-Series sales in South Africa?
A: The double-cab body style heavily drives the volume, accounting for 88.1% (4 204 units) of total P-Series sales in South Africa over the first 8 months of 2026, according to data from Naamsa and Lightstone Auto.
Q: How many GWM P-Series bakkies were sold in South Africa during the first 8 months of 2026?
A: Based on data from Naamsa and Lightstone Auto, GWM registered a total of 4 771 units of the P-Series range between January and August 2026, comprising 4 204 double cabs and 567 P300 single cabs.
Q: What is the sales proportion of the GWM P300 single cab in South Africa?
A: Using figures from Naamsa and Lightstone Auto, the P300 single cab accounts for 11.9% of the P-Series range’s overall sales volume, with 567 units registered over the 8-month period.
