Toyota’s popular Starlet leaps from 0 to 4 stars in latest Global NCAP crash tests
After a disappointing 0-star rating for adult occupant protection earlier this year, Toyota’s popular hatchback has bounced back following a crucial safety update.
The Toyota Starlet has achieved a commendable 4-star rating for adult occupant protection in the latest Global NCAP #SaferCarsForAfrica crash tests.
Earlier this year, the Indian-built hatchback – one of South Africa’s best-selling models – was heavily penalised for offering only 2 front airbags. Following the original test, Toyota made 6 airbags (including side curtain airbags) standard fitment across the locally offered range.
Global NCAP independently funded a follow-up assessment to test the revised safety spec. The results proved the benefit of the extra equipment, with the Starlet securing 4 stars for adult protection and retaining its 3-star rating for child occupant protection.
The structural assessment revealed a stable footwell area, although the body shell was deemed unstable under further frontal loadings. In the side and pole impact tests, head, abdomen and pelvis protection scored well, while chest protection ranged from adequate to marginal. However, child occupant testing highlighted some ongoing vulnerabilities, noting that the head of the child dummy (simulating a 3-year-old child) made contact with the interior during the frontal impact.
Industry praise for the turnaround
Industry bodies have warmly welcomed the upgrade. Richard Woods, CEO of Global NCAP, noted that the result proves what can be achieved when manufacturers prioritise safety, stating that “safety should never be reduced to an optional extra”.
Meanwhile, the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) praised the swift action, calling it proof that improving entry-level safety needn’t cost the Earth or disrupt production lines.
According to Bobby Ramagwede, CEO of the AA, “This result serves as an example of how improvements to safety specifications on entry-level vehicles can instantly yield safer cars on our roads. We strongly encourage those local brands with recent poorer #SaferCarsForAfrica results to work with us on improving the safety of their affected entry-level models, ensuring that safety is prioritised over cost; and proving that African lives matter.”
The new Audi Q5 and Q5 Sportback – including the 270 kW SQ7 derivatives – have touched down in South Africa. Here’s what you’ll pay for these newcomers…
New Q5 and Q5 Sportback arrive in SA
Local line-up comprises 10 derivatives
270 kW SQ5 TFSI variants top the range
The new Audi Q5 and Q5 Sportback have finally arrived in South Africa, with the local line-up comprising as many as 10 all-wheel-drive derivatives – including a quartet of potent 270 kW SQ5 variants – at launch.
As a reminder, the 3rd-generation Q5 was revealed back in September 2024, while the covers came off the closely related sloped-roof Sportback in November of that year. Now these models have finally touched down in Mzansi.
Thanks to a timely heads-up from the ever-vigilant folks over at duoporta.com, we know the local range comprises 4 derivatives in the standard body style and 6 in Sportback guise. Interestingly, the Q5 SUV is offered exclusively in petrol form at launch, while the Q5 Sportback portfolio features the option of turbodiesel power, too.
The Q5 TFSI 200 kW quattro S line is priced from R1 295 000, while the S line Black version comes in at R1 350 000. For the record, the outgoing line-up had a starting price of R1 018 200, with the new range kicking off some R256 800 higher.
And it’s the Q5 Sportback TDI 150 kW quattro S line that effectively serves as the entry point to the range, priced from R1 275 000. Opting for this derivative in S line Black guise pushes the price to R1 330 000. Meanwhile, the Q5 Sportback TFSI 200 kW quattro S line comes in at R1 365 000, with the S line Black iteration costing R1 420 000.
What about the Audi Sport derivatives? Well, the SQ5 TFSI 270 kW quattro is priced from R1 510 000 (and the S line Black version from R1 565 000), while the SQ5 Sportback TFSI 270 kW quattro costs R1 580 000 and the S line Black iteration tops the range at R1 635 000.
The TDI derivatives each employ a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine delivering 150 kW and 400 Nm to all 4 wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox – a transmission that’s standard across the range. Claimed fuel consumption is 5.1 L/100 km, while the listed 0-100 kph time is 7.4 seconds.
The 200 kW TFSI variants, meanwhile, offer 400 Nm from their turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol mills. The result is a 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 5.7 seconds, with the listed fuel economy coming in at 8.1 L/100 km.
Finally, the SQ5 derivatives each use a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine, which sends 270 kW and 550 Nm to all 4 wheels (as a reminder, those peak outputs are up from the outgoing SA-spec version’s 260 kW and 500 Nm). Audi lists a 0-100 kph time of 4.5 seconds and a consumption of 9.0 L/100 km.
While various options are available, the S line specification includes as standard items like LED headlights plus, LED rear lights pro, a 14.5-inch touchscreen, the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus, electrically adjustable front sport seats, 3-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, Park Assist Plus, surround-view cameras, wireless smartphone charging and 20-inch alloy wheels.
As you might have guessed, the S line Black grade adds the Ingolstadt-based firm’s Black Styling Package Plus. This includes a black finish for exterior components like the roof rails and side-mirror caps, along with privacy glazing, dark-chrome tailpipe trim and Audi Sport alloy wheels. A panoramic sunroof is also included.
What does the new Audi Q5 cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Q5 TFSI 200 kW quattro S line
R1 295 000
Q5 TFSI 200 kW quattro S line Black
R1 350 000
SQ5 TFSI 270 kW quattro
R1 510 000
SQ5 TFSI 270 kW quattro Black
R1 565 000
What does the new Audi Q5 Sportback cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Q5 Sportback TDI 150 kW quattro S line
R1 275 000
Q5 Sportback TDI 150 kW quattro S line Black
R1 330 000
Q5 Sportback TFSI 200 kW quattro S line
R1 365 000
Q5 Sportback TFSI 200 kW quattro S line Black
R1 420 000
SQ5 Sportback TFSI 270 kW quattro
R1 580 000
SQ5 Sportback TFSI 270 kW quattro Black
R1 635 000
The prices above seemingly include Audi’s 1-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
Q: What is the starting price for the new Audi Q5 and Q5 Sportback range in South Africa?
A: The new range starts at R1 275 000 for the Q5 Sportback TDI 150 kW quattro S line, while the standard body style Q5 range kicks off from R1 295 000 for the TFSI 200 kW quattro S line.
Q: What powertrains and outputs are available across the new Audi Q5 line-up?
A: The local line-up features three powertrain options, all equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive: a 2.0-litre turbodiesel (150 kW/400 Nm) available on the Sportback, a 2.0-litre turbo petrol (200 kW/400 Nm) and a 3.0-litre V6 turbo petrol (270 kW/550 Nm) powering the flagship SQ5 variants.
Q: How much do the flagship Audi SQ5 and SQ5 Sportback derivatives cost?
A: Pricing for the 270 kW SQ5 TFSI quattro starts at R1 510 000 (R1 565 000 for Black Edition), while the SQ5 Sportback TFSI quattro is priced from R1 580 000, topping out at R1 635 000 for the Black Edition flagship.
GWM South Africa has confirmed it plans to launch its Wey luxury brand as a standalone marque towards the middle of 2027. Here’s what we know so far…
Wey luxury brand coming to SA next year
Launch expected towards middle of 2027
Marque offers large crossovers and MPVs
The head of GWM South Africa has confirmed to Cars.co.za that the Chinese automaker plans to introduce its Wey luxury brand to Mzansi as a “standalone” marque towards the middle of 2027.
Conrad Groenewald, Chief Operating Officer of GWM South Africa, made the comments during a wide-ranging interview on the Cars.co.za BizCars podcast ahead of DealerCon 2026. He later also confirmed the news at the 2026 Festival of Motoring at Kyalami.
The Wey Mocha (known as the 05 in some markets).
“We had the [GWM] Group CEO in South Africa at the beginning of this year [2026] to do a market assessment and I think he made the call to say that everything you see in China – that historically used to be left-hand drive and only for domestic-market consumption – is now being opened up for the rest of the world,” Groenewald revealed during the podcast.
“The Wey brand, which is our luxury brand – named after Chairman Wei [Jianjun], the owner of the [GWM] business – that brand will also be launching middle of next year [2027] in South Africa with a full range of products,” Groenewald told us, having earlier confirmed various new Tank models for the local market.
The Wey V8X appears to be a slightly smaller version of the V9X.
GWM established the Wey brand back in 2016, with an initial focus on the Chinese market. However, the Baoding-based company has since rolled out its luxury division to various international markets, with fellow right-hand-drive nation Australia set to welcome the marque before the end of 2026, too.
Though it’s not yet clear exactly which Wey models are planned for South Africa, the brand offers several large crossovers and MPVs in China. Most appear to feature some sort of electrification, with many furthermore offering 3 rows of seating.
A look inside the Chinese-spec V9X.
One of the most recently revealed models is the 3-row Wey V9X, which the company bills as its “global flagship”. In China, the standard version is 5 205 mm long with 3 050 mm between its axles, while the long-wheelbase iteration measures a whopping 5 299 mm from front to back, boasting a 3 150 mm wheelbase.
More details as we have them…
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will GWM’s Wey luxury brand officially launch in South Africa?
A: GWM South Africa has confirmed plans to launch the Wey luxury brand as a standalone marque towards the middle of 2027.
Q: What types of vehicles does the Wey luxury brand produce?
A: Wey specialises in large luxury crossovers, SUVs and MPVs, many of which feature electrified powertrains (such as plug-in hybrids) and 3-row seating layouts.
Q: What is Wey’s flagship model and what are its dimensions?
A: The brand’s global flagship is the 3-row Wey V9X. In standard form, it measures 5 205 mm in length with a 3 050 mm wheelbase, while the long-wheelbase variant extends to 5 299 mm in length with a 3 150 mm wheelbase.
The head of GWM South Africa has confirmed the Tank 400 and Tank 700 are coming to Mzansi, while the upcoming Tank 800 is under consideration, too…
Tank 400 and 700 locked in for Mzansi
Upcoming Tank 800 could arrive, too
Tank 400 likely to employ 2.4TD in SA
New twin-turbo 4.0 V8 PHEV for 700?
The head of GWM South Africa has confirmed to Cars.co.za that the Chinese brand plans to expand its off-road-focused Tank range in Mzansi, with the Tank 400 and Tank 700 ladder-frame SUVs already locked in – and the upcoming Tank 800 under consideration as well.
Conrad Groenewald, Chief Operating Officer of GWM South Africa, revealed the news during a wide-ranging interview on the Cars.co.za BizCars podcast ahead of DealerCon 2026, suggesting these new models will allow the company to move further into the “premium space”.
“A full range of Tank products will be coming to South Africa,” Groenewald told us, confirming that the expanding portfolio will again kick off with the Tank 300, a model that has seen a sharp increase in sales since the availability of a turbodiesel motor (and has recently been facelifted in its domestic market).
The Tank 700 is coming, too.
“Tank 400 will be coming, Tank 500 that we’re expanding [and] Tank 700 will also be coming to South Africa,” the former Ford executive said, adding that there is also “the potential of Tank 800” reaching Mzansi at some stage.
Though Groenewald didn’t touch on specific launch timing for either the Tank 400 or the Tank 700, he did mention that GWM SA was planning as many as 14 product launches over the next 18 months, with the Tank marque set to play a central role in that range expansion.
A look inside the Chinese-spec version of the Tank 400.
So, what do we know about the Tank 400? Well, this 5-seater SUV has been in production in China since 2023 and seemingly shares its platform with the aforementioned Tank 300. It measures 4 964 mm from nose to tail, making it some 204 mm longer than its 300-badged sibling and 169 mm longer than the 7-seater Toyota Fortuner.
In China, the Tank 400 is available with a range of powertrains, including a 180 kW/380 Nm turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine, a 135 kW/480 Nm 2.4-litre turbodiesel motor and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain ostensibly generating 635 kW and 1 195 Nm. Of course, the oil-burner – already offered locally in the P300 and P500 – seems the most likely fit for South Africa.
The Tank 700 is larger than even Mercedes-Benz’s G450d.
Meanwhile, the Tank 700 – a likewise body-on-frame SUV that Cars.co.za earlier this year reported was firming for a local introduction – measures 5 105 mm from bow to stern, making it a considerable 280 mm longer than the Mercedes-Benz G450d. It’s also 27 mm lengthier than the Tank 500 (and it’s worth keeping in mind the latter seats 7 occupants, while the Tank 700 is a strict 5-seater).
In production since 2024, the Tank 700 is available in China with an Hi4-T powertrain (a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 PHEV) as well as a new Hi4-Z arrangement (featuring a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder PHEV). But GWM has also confirmed its new twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 PHEV for right-hand-drive export versions of the Tank 700. The brand’s latest 3.0-litre turbodiesel motor could potentially be employed here, too.
GWM’s new twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 PHEV powertrain.
Finally, GWM has yet to reveal the production version of its upcoming Tank 800, though this flagship offering is expected to feature not only its own ladder-frame platform and 3 rows of seats but potentially also the aforementioned twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 PHEV powertrain. More details as we have them…
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which new GWM Tank models are confirmed for South Africa?
A: GWM South Africa COO Conrad Groenewald has officially confirmed to Cars.co.za that both the Tank 400 and flagship Tank 700 ladder-frame SUVs are locked in for local release, while the upcoming 3-row Tank 800 is under consideration for Mzansi, too.
Q: What are the key specs and likely engine choices for the Tank 400 in South Africa?
A: Measuring 4 964 mm in length (204 mm longer than the Tank 300), the 5-seater Tank 400 shares its platform with its 300-badged sibling. For the South African market, the 135 kW/480 Nm 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine is considered the most likely powertrain choice.
Q: How does the Tank 700 compare in size and what powertrains are expected?
A: The Tank 700 is a large 5-seater SUV measuring 5 105 mm long — 280 mm longer than a Mercedes-Benz G450d and 27 mm longer than the Tank 500. It is earmarked for export with GWM’s newly developed twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 PHEV powertrain, while the brand’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel motor is also a potential candidate for local introduction.
The new Lexus ES sedan will soon launch in South Africa, available in both hybrid and – for the first time – fully electric form. Here’s what it will cost you…
New ES range comprises 3 variants
Pair of HEV derivatives & EV flagship
Starting price crosses into 7 figures
The new Lexus ES is scheduled to hit the market in South Africa soon, offered in both traditional hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and fully electric vehicle (EV) guise. And Cars.co.za can confirm pricing for this 8th-generation luxury sedan ahead of launch.
Revealed in China in April 2025, the new ES measures 5 140 mm from nose to tail, making its some 165 mm longer than the outgoing version. The wheelbase, meanwhile, grows 80 mm to 2 950 mm, with overall height and width both up, too.
The new version is 165 mm longer than the outgoing model.
With the IS and LS no longer available new in Mzansi, the ES soldiers on as the last surviving Lexus sedan. The local XZ20-series Lexus ES line-up again comprises a trio of derivatives. However, while the outgoing portfolio featured purely petrol-powered and hybrid derivatives, the 8th-gen version is offered in both hybrid and – for the first time – fully electric form.
The new Lexus ES 350h EX is priced at R1 051 200. With the old petrol-only ES 250 EX gone, the range’s starting price effectively increases by R199 700 (meaning the ES no longer represents the entry point to the broader Lexus line-up, with the R957 100 UX 300h EX – the only Lexus derivative still priced under 7 figures – inheriting that role).
Note the narrow air intake (below the front badge) that visually distinguishes the HEV from the EV.
The new ES 350h EX draws its urge from what Lexus describes as an “upgraded” version of the 7th-gen model’s 2.5-litre self-charging hybrid powertrain, which again powers the front wheels. While the naturally aspirated 4-pot alone delivers 139 kW and 235 Nm via a continuously variable transmission (CVT), total system power stands at 182 kW thanks to the hybrid system’s electric motor.
The new Lexus ES 350h SE employs precisely the same HEV powertrain – and thus has an identical claimed 0-100 kph time of 7.7 seconds – but starts at R1 232 700, since it features additional standard kit (more on that in a bit). Both hybrid derivatives have a listed fuel economy of 4.4 L/100 km.
The electric version of the ES (overseas model shown, with different alloys).
Finally, the Lexus ES 350e SE – which arrives as the Toyota-backed luxury brand’s 2nd fully electric offering after the RZ – tops the 8th-gen ES range, priced from R1 561 000. Equipped with a front-mounted electric motor, the ES 350e SE generates peak system power of 165 kW, which affords it a claimed 0-100 kph time of 8.0 seconds.
This EV’s 74.69 kWh lithium-ion battery pack offers a listed 615 km of single-charge range, though it’s worth noting that’s using the typically optimistic NEDC standard. According to Lexus, a 150 kW public DC fast charger can move the battery capacity from zero to 80% in just 30 minutes. Top speed is listed as 160 kph, down from the HEV variants’ maximum of 200 kph.
All derivatives feature a 14-inch touchscreen, bamboo accents and a panoramic sunroof.
So, what are the key equipment differences between the trio of derivatives? Well, the ES 350h EX ships standard with items like 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps (with auto high beams), faux-leather upholstery, powered front seats, a 14-inch touchscreen, a reverse-view camera, a 10-speaker sound system, a panoramic sunroof, 7 airbags and a raft of advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) features.
The ES 350h SE adds features like side-mirror memory, a digital rear-view mirror, steering-wheel heating, a head-up display, a panoramic-view monitor, heated-and-ventilated front seats, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system and wireless smartphone charging. Finally, the flagship ES 350e SE furthermore boasts 21-inch alloy wheels, adaptive high beams and semi-aniline leather upholstery.
What does the new Lexus ES cost in South Africa?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Lexus ES 350h EX
R1 051 200
Lexus ES 350h SE
R1 232 700
Lexus ES 350e SE
R1 561 000
The prices above include a 7-year/105 000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year/160 000 km battery pack warranty (applicable to both the HEV and EV batteries) and a 7-year/105 000 km maintenance plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the starting price for the new 8th-generation Lexus ES in South Africa?
A: The new Lexus ES range starts at R1 051 200 for the entry-level ES 350h EX hybrid derivative. The mid-tier ES 350h SE is priced from R1 232 700, while the range-topping, fully electric ES 350e SE tops the lineup at R1 561 000.
Q: What powertrains are offered in the local Lexus ES range?
A: The line-up consists of two powertrain types: an updated 2.5-litre self-charging hybrid (HEV) producing a total system output of 182 kW in the ES 350h models and a single front-mounted electric motor producing 165 kW in the fully electric (EV) ES 350e SE.
Q: What are the battery performance and range figures for the first-ever electric Lexus ES 350e SE?
A: The Lexus ES 350e SE features a 74.69 kWh lithium-ion battery pack offering a claimed NEDC range of up to 615 km. It supports 150 kW DC fast charging, allowing a 0 to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes, and achieves a 0–100 km/h sprint in 8.0 seconds.
Thanks to an influx of Chinese brands, South Africa’s new-vehicle market features several more affordable EVs than in years gone by. Here are the 5 cheapest examples…
Back in 2023, the most affordable fully electric vehicle (EV) on South Africa’s new-car market was priced at nearly R800 000. Today, the cheapest battery-powered model available in Mzansi costs well under half that figure.
Mirroring a phenomenon we’ve already seen in the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) space, Chinese brands have started something of a price war in the local EV market, which means SA buyers now have several far more affordable options than in years gone by.
Note we’ve not been able to include the Dayun S5 here as its distributor, Enviro Automotive, doesn’t currently list a retail price on its website. Right, let’s take a closer look at the 5 cheapest EVs (prices correct in August 2026)…
1. Geely E2 Aspire – from R339 900
Serving as China’s best-selling vehicle overall in 2025, the Geely E2 – which measures 4 135 mm long – recently grabbed the title of SA’s cheapest EV. Equipped with a 39.4 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery pack and an electric motor driving the rear wheels, this hatchback features peak outputs of 85 kW and 150 Nm. The base Aspire derivative is priced from R339 900, while the more generously specified Apex variant comes in at R389 900.
Measuring 3 925 mm front to back, the BYD Dolphin Surf is more compact than the Geely E2. Its front-mounted electric motor generates 55 kW and 135 Nm, drawing urge from a 30.1 kWh battery pack. While the Comfort grade kicks off at R341 900, the Dynamic derivative costs R395 900 and upgrades to a 38.9 kWh battery.
Like its pair of rivals above, the 4 020 mm-long Dongfeng Box is a 5-seater electric hatchback. The local range has been pared back to 2 derivatives and pricing adjusted downwards. Each variant is fitted with a front-mounted electric motor delivering peak outputs of 70 kW and 160 Nm. The earlier versions with the 32.6 kWh battery pack have gone, while the E2 and E3 (R389 900) each employ a 43.9 kWh battery pack.
Chery’s new Q features a rear-mounted electric motor generating 90 kW and 115 Nm. This crossover measures 4 195 mm from front to back. Though a smaller battery pack is available in China, the SA market receives only the larger 42.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate item. The Chinese brand also offers the Q in Elite specification, priced from R389 900.
The Dongfeng 06 E1 – which wears the Vigo badge in many international markets – is a 4 510 mm long crossover. The Chinese brand offers 2 variants in South Africa, both of which feature a front-mounted electric motor offering 120 kW and 230 Nm. The E1 (R499 000) employs a 44.9 kWh battery pack, while the E3 (R579 900) upgrades to a 51.9 kWh item.
Q: What is currently the cheapest electric vehicle (EV) available in South Africa?
A: The Geely E2 Aspire is currently South Africa’s cheapest electric vehicle, with pricing starting from R339 900.
Q: Which Chinese EV models make up the top 4 most affordable electric cars in SA under R350 000?
A: The top 4 most affordable EVs priced below R350 000 are the Geely E2 Aspire (R339 900), the BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort (R341 900), the Dongfeng Box E2 430 (R349 000) and the Chery Q Comfort (R349 900).
Q: How do the entry-level Geely E2 Aspire and BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort compare in battery size and driving range?
A: The Geely E2 Aspire features a 39.4 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery offering a claimed range of up to 325 km. In comparison, the entry-level BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort utilises a smaller 30.1 kWh battery providing a claimed range of 300 km.
The Geely E5 PHEV promises over 1 000 km of total range, punchy electric performance and great value for money. We evaluate the flagship Apex derivative to see if it moves the game forward in the crowded family-crossover segment.
We like: E5 PHEV hybrid powertrain is smooth and generally quiet; strong real-world fuel efficiency and total range; high-definition infotainment display and crisp user interface; generous rear passenger space and practical boot.
We don’t like: ADAS overly intrusive; straining engine note under hard acceleration; light interior will need frequent cleaning.
Geely has launched its E5 crossover lineup in South Africa, available as both a fully electric vehicle (BEV) and a versatile plug-in hybrid (PHEV) carrying the EM-i moniker. Positioned right in the sweet spot of the midsize-SUV market, the Geely E5 PHEV aims to offer maximum efficiency and range without triggering public charging anxiety.
Priced at R679 999 in flagship Apex trim, it enters a fiercely contested arena dominated by Chinese new-energy offerings such as the Chery Tiggo 7 CSH, Jaecoo J7 SHS, BYD Sealion 6 and Haval H6 PHEV. For buyers seeking a mid-sized family vehicle with hybrid frugality and modern tech, it also presents an intriguing alternative to traditional internal-combustion models.
Visually, the E5 adopts a clean, uncluttered (some would say generic) design language. Rather than pushing radical styling cues, its rounded proportions present a neat aesthetic that prioritises aerodynamic efficiency and broad appeal. Conventional pull-type door handles distinguish the PHEV variant from its flush-handled BEV sibling.
Inside, as expected, the cabin leans into a minimalist, tech-focused ambience. The 15.4-inch high-resolution central infotainment screen dominates the dashboard, supported by a slim digital driver instrument cluster spanning 10.2 inches.
The upholstery options include an Ivory White light interior trim, but note that this material will require more regular cleaning. Geely offers Ebony Black as an alternative. Passenger space in the rear is generous with ample legroom and headroom, while luggage capacity sits at a practical 528 litres.
Performance & Efficiency
Under the bonnet, Geely has opted for a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor and an 18.4 kWh battery pack. Systems outputs are 160 kW and 262 Nm of torque, sent exclusively to the front wheels. The decision to use a naturally aspirated engine rather than a turbocharged unit favours long-term mechanical simplicity, but there are some drawbacks.
The charging cable is housed in the recess formed by the spare wheel.
In straight-line testing, we found the performance to be brisk and responsive, with initial acceleration provided seamlessly by the electric motor. Driving modes are neatly structured into EV-focused, hybrid, and dynamic power settings.
Claimed overall range extends beyond 1 000 km on a full (50-litre) tank and battery charge, which is wholly unrealistic. Real-world fuel usage drops into the sub-6.0 L/100 km region during unsparing hybrid driving, which is still impressive considering this is a petrol-powered, heavy crossover. Fast DC charging takes the battery from nearly depleted to 80% in roughly 20 minutes.
Ride, Handling & Comfort
On-road, the E5 delivers a generally quiet and refined driving experience. Noise isolation is well managed, with the petrol engine operating almost imperceptibly under light throttle inputs. However, request brisker acceleration and the 1.5-litre pipes up and makes its presence known a touch more than expected. The transition between electric power and engine is smooth, however.
Regenerative braking force can be tailored through multiple settings via the central touchscreen menu, allowing for efficient energy harvesting when decelerating. The suspension is tuned primarily for ride comfort, soaking up road imperfections with ease.
As has become commonplace, the most irritating driving quirk is the ADAS interference. The active safety alerts can feel over-sensitive at times, issuing frequent warnings during routine, attentive driving.
Price & After-sales support
The Geely E5 EM-i range offers a 5-year/75 000 km service plan and a 6-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty. Geely adds 2 years and 50 000 km onto this warranty for the EM-i’s battery system.
Like practically all its Chinese rivals, the Geely E5 EM-i proves to be a well-executed, refined plug-in hybrid crossover that nails the fundamentals of daily usability. Its smooth power delivery, general refinement and realistic low fuel consumption make it a solid choice for buyers looking to step into electrified motoring without undue lifestyle compromises.
Does the Geely E5 stand out among a raft of similar competitors, however? Not really, but that’s hardly a criticism when the field’s this packed…
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What powertrain is featured in the Geely E5 EM-i Apex plug-in hybrid?
A: The E5 EM-i pairs a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and an 18.4 kWh battery pack, delivering a combined 160 kW and 262 Nm to the front wheels.
Q: How fast does the Geely E5 PHEV charge using a DC fast charger?
A: DC fast charging takes the battery from nearly depleted to 80% in approximately 20 minutes.
Q: What is the retail price of the flagship Geely E5 EM-i Apex in South Africa?
A: The flagship Geely E5 EM-i Apex is priced at R679 999, with the lineup starting from R599 999 for the Aspire derivative (pricing correct as of August 2026).
5 most powerful double-cab bakkies in SA (2026)
Prefer your bakkie with upwards of 200 kW? These are the 5 most powerful double-cab bakkies on South Africa’s new-vehicle market right now…
These days, not all bakkies are workhorses. In fact, thanks to the sustained growth of the so-called “leisure bakkie” segment, many South African buyers now consider modern double cabs their preferred luxury-vehicle status symbol. And, with luxury often comes power. So, which are the most powerful double-cab bakkies available right now?
Well, we’ve combed through Mzansi’s new-vehicle market and picked out the 5 double-cab bakkies with the most potent power figures (well, actually 6 since there’s a tie for the final spot). Interestingly, 2 models featured here are locally built, while 3 are imported from China and 1 comes over from Thailand. Note that all pricing is correct as of August 2026.
1. BYD Shark 6 Performance 2.0T DMO AWD – 350 kW
The Performance-badged version of the BYD Shark 6 is the local market’s most powerful double-cab bakkie. The Chinese automaker’s electrified bakkie makes 350 kW and 700 Nm courtesy of a PHEV powertrain that combines a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with a 29.6 kWh (gross capacity) battery pack and an electric motor on each axle. For the most part, the petrol engine acts as a generator to top up the battery. BYD claims a 0-100 kph time of just 5.5 seconds. For the record, the original Premium-badged derivative (which uses a 1.5T in its PHEV set-up) offers 321 kW and 650 Nm.
Starting price: R1 149 900 (or R989 900 for Premium)
Fuel consumption (claimed): TBC
Payload: 725 kg (or 790 kg for Premium)
Braked towing capacity: 3 500 kg (or 2 500 kg for Premium)
Launched in late August 2026, Geely Auto SA’s fully electric Riddara RD6 Apex AWD – the flagship derivative in this unibody range – takes 2nd place on the list of South Africa’s most powerful double-cab bakkies. Equipped with an electric motor on each axle, this variant boasts peak outputs of 315 kW and 595 Nm. A 73 kWh (gross) battery pack offers a claimed NEDC range of 424 km, while the Chinese company says the 0-100 kph sprint takes just 4.5 seconds (in “ideal operating conditions” and using highway-terrain tyres). Top speed is rated at 190 kph.
Shipped over from Thailand rather than built alongside its standard Ranger siblings at Ford’s Silverton facility in Gauteng, the Raptor boasts the largest-capacity engine here. This halo derivative’s twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine drives all 4 wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard, generating 292 kW and 583 Nm in the process. Still, it’s the Raptor’s suspension set-up – including a Watt’s linkage at the rear and special Fox shock absorbers all round – that benefitted most from Ford’s significant R&D spend.
Currently topping GWM’s broader P-Series range (above the P300 derivatives and, indeed, the 2.4TD P500 variants), the HEV version uses the Chinese brand’s turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol-hybrid set-up, which includes a single electric motor and a small 1.76 kWh battery pack. Total system outputs come in at 255 kW and 648 Nm, channelled to all 4 corners through a 9-speed automatic transmission as standard.
Added as part of Ford’s updated Ranger portfolio, the turbocharged 2.3-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine is available in double-cab form in both Sport and Wildtrak guise. This EcoBoost mill generates 222 kW and 452 Nm, sent exclusively to the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Interestingly, the Blue Oval brand doesn’t currently offer this petrol motor in all-wheel-drive flavour here in South Africa.
5=. Volkswagen Amarok 2.3 TSI PanAmericana 4Motion – 222 kW
Built by Ford alongside the Ranger in Silverton, the 2nd-generation Volkswagen Amarok is also offered with the Dearborn-based company’s turbocharged 2.3-litre 4-pot (which VW rebrands as a “TSI” engine). However, in Amarok guise, this likewise 222 kW/452 Nm powerplant – employing the same 10-speed automatic, of course – drives all 4 wheels as standard. The German firm claims a 0-100 kph time of 7.6 seconds.
Q: What is currently the most powerful double-cab bakkie in South Africa?
A: The BYD Shark 6 Performance 2.0T DMO AWD holds the crown as South Africa’s most powerful double-cab bakkie, generating a massive 350 kW and 700 Nm from its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain.
Q: Which double-cab bakkies in South Africa offer power outputs exceeding 250 kW?
A: Four double-cab models exceed the 250 kW mark: the BYD Shark 6 Performance (350 kW), the fully electric Geely Riddara RD6 Apex AWD (315 kW), the twin-turbo V6 Ford Ranger Raptor (292 kW) and the petrol-hybrid GWM P500 2.0T HEV (255 kW).
Q: How do the Ford Ranger 2.3T and Volkswagen Amarok 2.3 TSI compare in power and drivetrain?
A: Both models share the same turbocharged 2.3-litre 4-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic transmission producing 222 kW and 452 Nm. However, the Ford Ranger 2.3T (Sport/Wildtrak) sends power exclusively to the rear wheels (4×2), whereas the VW Amarok 2.3 TSI PanAmericana comes standard with 4Motion all-wheel drive.
The mastermind behind Top Gear sits down for an exclusive chat with Cars.co.za
Following the release of his highly anticipated memoir, Mr Wilman’s Motoring Adventure, Andy Wilman joins us for his first South African interview since publishing the book in an exclusive chat for Cars.co.za’s podcast.
When it comes to automotive television, few figures carry as much legendary weight as Andy Wilman. As the executive producer and creative visionary behind Top Gear, The Grand Tour and now Clarkson’s Farm, Wilman was the secret “puppet master” who turned 3 self-described idiots messily driving cars into a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon.
A special connection with South Africa
Throughout the wide-ranging podcast conversation, Wilman takes us behind the curtain of television history, reflecting on the long-standing love affair between the show’s team and South Africa. From record-breaking stadium live shows to filming iconicTV segments across the country, South Africa always provided a unique home away from home.
In the interview, Wilman also dives into:
Happy accidents: How spontaneous moments – like creating The Stig out of pure production necessity, or expanding an Alabama road trip – turned into defining memories.
Behind-the-scenes chaos: The staggering logistical realities (and eye-watering budgets) of moving tents, hundreds of crew members and high-end supercars around the world.
Celebrity encounters: Hilarious anecdotes from the track, including why Tom Cruise was an absolute dream guest and how Kimi Räikkönen had to be coaxed out of his motorhome.
Calling time: Why Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May finally decided to step away while still at the top of their game.
From quiet beginnings to a global hit
That sense of finality forms the emotional core of Wilman’s debut memoir, Mr Wilman’s Motoring Adventure: Top Gear, Grand Tour and Twenty Years of Magic and Mayhem. Far from a standard tell-all, the book acts as an uncensored, backstage pass to a global phenomenon. Wilman pulls back the curtain on how a modest UK consumer car show was transformed over pints in a pub into a juggernaut reaching hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide.
In the memoir, Wilman doesn’t shy away from the darker, more turbulent Top Gear chapters, too: high-speed crashes, intense production pressures, the infamous Patagonia special escape and the eventual end of their BBC run. It’s an affectionate, brutally honest tribute to 2 decades of creative alchemy.
Watch the full podcast interview to hear the master storyteller himself recount the triumphs, spats and sheer madness of a legendary broadcast career.
Chery Q (2026) Price & Specs
Official pricing for the new Chery Q in South Africa has been announced. Here’s what this fully electric crossover official will cost you in Mzansi…
Chery’s EV starts at R349 900
Local range features 2 variants
RWD with 90 kW and 115 Nm
Claimed 400 km range (NEDC)
Chery South Africa has announced full pricing for its new fully electric Chery Q, with this battery-powered Chinese crossover having now officially hit the market.
Available from R349 900, the new Q slots 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).
As we reported earlier, the new Chery Q is available in South Africa in 2 trim levels: Comfort and Elite. The Comfort derivative is priced at R349 900, with the Elite variant comes in at R389 900.
What sort of size is this new model? Well, Chery’s electric crossover – which is badged as the “QQ3” (remember that name?) in its domestic market of China but is called the “Q” in South Africa – 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.
It features a rear-mounted electric motor generating 90 kW and 115 Nm. Though a smaller battery pack is available in China, the SA market will receive only the larger 42.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate item, which offers a claimed 400 km on the NEDC standard (and therefore likely sub-350 km on the more stringent WLTP cycle).
Inside the Q, 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. We expect the battery-powered crossover is available in a choice of 4 paint colours: white, silver, beige and purple.
Though Chery SA has yet to add a specification sheet to its website, it seems both derivatives ship standard with 6 airbags. Based on the images on the Chinese brand’s local website, the Comfort and Elite variants features different wheel designs. We’ll update this article once other equipment distinctions between the 2 grades are confirmed.
What does the new Chery Q cost in South Africa?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Chery Q Comfort
R349 900
Chery Q Elite
R389 900
Chery SA has yet to confirm the standard warranty and service-plan details for its new electric vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the starting price for the new Chery Q electric crossover in South Africa?
A: The new Chery Q range starts at R349 900 for the entry-level Comfort derivative, while the range-topping Elite variant is priced at R389 900.
Q: What are the performance and battery specifications for the Chery Q in South Africa?
A: The Chery Q is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor producing 90 kW and 115 Nm. It features a 42.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack that delivers a claimed NEDC driving range of up to 400 km.
Q: How does the Chery Q rank among South Africa’s most affordable electric vehicles?
A: With a starting price of R349 900, the Chery Q slots into 4th place on the list of South Africa’s most affordable new EVs, trailing the Geely E2 Aspire, BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort and Dongfeng Box E2 430.
