The updated Renault Duster has touched down in South Africa. Here’s a look at what’s changed, along with pricing and specifications.
This updated Renault Duster is sourced from Renault’s factory in Chennai, India which means the Romanian Euro-spec Duster era has come to an end. This is the same factory which assembles the Nissan Tekton, the Duster’s twin.
It is assembled on the Renault-Nissan Alliance CMF-B platform and will be available in a five-model line up with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. Sadly there’s no sign of a 4×4 configuration or a diesel engine.
The engine range kicks off with a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol motor which makes 74 kW and 160 Nm. This is available with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Next up is a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 116 kW and 260 Nm, and that can be had with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, badged as EDC.
Customers have the choice of five colours; Moonlight Silver, Mountain Jade Green, Pearl White, Sunset Red, River Blue. In terms of trim, there are four levels. Renault’s OpenR Link infotainment with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay is standard as are 6 airbags, stability control, hill start assist, tyre pressure sensors and a rearview camera.
Higher trim levels get a large digital driver display, wireless smartphone charger, upgrade audio, ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control and an electric tailgate. They also gain ADAS functions in the form of adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, traffic sign recognition, lane-keep assist, active emergency braking, 360-degree camera and so on.
Interestingly, Renault is claiming two boot capacity figures; 518 litres up to the parcel shelf and 700 litres up to the roof. While there may not be a 4×4 derivative, the Duster has a ground clearance of 212 mm, approach angle of 26.9 degrees and a departure angle of 34.7 degrees.
How much does the updated Renault Duster range cost in South Africa?
The prices below include a 3-year/45 000 km service plan and a 5-year/150 000 km warranty. We understand that the 4×4 mild-hybrid manual derivative from Europe will continue to be sold alongside the newer models.
How does the Indian-built Renault Duster differ from the European model in South Africa?
Manufactured at Renault’s Chennai facility in India, the updated Duster features distinct design tweaks, including bold “DUSTER” lettering on the front grille, revised LED headlamp signatures, a full-width rear LED light bar, and an updated dashboard layout with a new twin-screen infotainment setup and available panoramic sunroof.
What engine options are available for the Indian-sourced Renault Duster?
The Indian-spec Duster range offers three global powertrain options: an entry-level 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo-petrol (74 kW / 160 Nm) mated to a 6-speed manual, a more powerful 1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol (120 kW / 280 Nm) paired with a 6-speed manual or dual-clutch transmission, and an E-Tech 1.8-litre hybrid system (118 kW / 205 Nm).
When is the Indian-built Renault Duster launching in South Africa?
Renault South Africa officially confirmed the market arrival and local launch of the Indian-assembled Duster for August 2026, replacing earlier European-sourced (Romanian-built) stock in the local lineup.
Does the Indian-built Duster offer improved boot space and ground clearance?
Yes, the Indian-built iteration features an increased ground clearance of 213 mm (compared to 209 mm on earlier models) and offers enhanced boot capacity ranging between 518 litres and 1,789 litres with the rear seats folded.
What warranty and service plan coverage apply to the Renault Duster in South Africa?
As with Renault’s standard local passenger range, the Duster is backed by a 5-year / 150,000 km mechanical manufacturer warranty alongside a 3-year / 45,000 km service plan, with service intervals set every 15,000 km or 12 months.
The Hilux’s advantage comes from Toyota deep knowledge of the local market
The Toyota Hilux and the Springboks face a similar challenge: how do you consistently stay on top?
If you work as a product planner in the car industry, nothing is certain. There was a time when German luxury sedans were the most profitable models in the world. In fact, they were so in demand in the 1990s and early 2000s that German car companies hardly had to market them. Today, the German industry is in crisis due to shrinking profits. Cue the Hilux as an example of how to do it right.
Toyota South Africa Motors doesn’t have the same problem as the Germans. Basically, whatever it does, works. Toyota is the world’s biggest car company, so you would expect it to be successful everywhere. But in South Africa, it holds a proportionally higher market share than anywhere else in the world. And most of that dominance is because of the Hilux.
Hilux has become its own brand…
The new Hilux is Toyota’s biggest ever investment in South African production.
Most South Africans aren’t old enough to remember a time when the Hilux wasn’t South Africa’s best-selling vehicle. For Toyota South Africa Motors, the presence of Chinese bakkies has not really challenged its Hilux success. Despite being old, the previous-generation Hilux bakkie was still South Africa’s dominant model range last year. There’s no doubt that the new Hilux will sustain the model’s sales dominance in South Africa, or more likely increase it.
From commercial buyers who order single-cab Hilux bakkies with steel wheels, to parents who buy a double-cab Hilux as the family vehicle, this model range is so successful that it’s legitimately become a brand unto itself.
Real product feedback makes all the difference
There’s nobody that knows more about the new Hilux than Thailand’s Anyarat Sutthibenjakul, regional engineering chief.
More South Africans are buying bakkies, especially double-cab bakkies, than ever before. That means that Toyota’s customers are no longer only commercial buyers, farmers or overlanding types.
With the Hilux having been the best-selling vehicle in South Africa for such a long time, Toyota has excellent data on what customers want and need. This allows the Toyota South Africa Motors product team to negotiate with purpose when it needs to suggest the ideal specification matrix to head office.
The regional engineering chief for the Hilux product line is Thailand’s Anyarat Sutthibenjakul. She knows the Toyota IVM platform better than anyone else. Anyarat has spent a lot of time in South Africa and Namibia, meeting with customers and learning what local bakkie drivers need. Her decisions about specification and allocation for South Africa aren’t made from slideshows and spreadsheets. They are made from real-world experience with Southern African owners.
Hilux modernisation risks
Dirt-road ability is at Hilux’s core, but the bakkie market is urbanising.
The Springboks seem unstoppable, but Rassie Erasmus and Siya Kolisi understand dominance is earned and complacency creates risk.
A reason why most buyers prefer the Hilux is that Toyota is a conservative company when it comes to product features and engineering integration. Toyota rarely leads with new technology implementation. Its bakkie engineers don’t believe in first-mover advantage because they know their customers demand durability above everything else.
The truth is that the bakkie market is changing. A greater share of the per-unit bakkie profits sits in the lucrative luxury double-cab derivatives. Buyers of those bakkies, who are mostly urban drivers, demand far more technology and comfort features. It’s the kind of specification that Chinese companies have been incredibly good at providing at a very low cost.
We don’t know the medium-term durability of these higher-technology Chinese bakkies in local conditions. But their presence and amazingly feature-rich cabin architectures are creating pressure on Hilux. Why? Because customers in the double-cab market are comparing its proven engineering and design with the latest over-the-top features from Chinese brands.
Many of these are still running just fine. This provides the baseline for residual values.
The new Hilux has 3% more local components than any previous version. Toyota South Africa Motors has spent more than R10 billion in industrial engineering on the 9th generation. But what does that really mean for South African buyers and Hilux owners?
Search for Hilux models for sale on Cars.co.za and you’ll spot very little relative depreciation even on models that are 15 or 20 years old. There are several reasons for this, the main one being Toyota’s conservative engineering approach. Technology and features are integrated into the Hilux only when proven, rather than trying to be trend-setting with specifications.
Other factors also contribute to the Hilux’s excellent residuals in a very competitive and heavily traded local bakkie market. One of these is that Toyota has a lot of dealerships, and they do very well commercially. That’s simple to understand. Toyota dealers sell the best-selling model in South Africa (Hilux) and several of the best-selling large SUVs, too, which makes a Toyota dealership very profitable.
Dealerships that make good money invest in their maintenance and service staff, tooling and diagnostics. That’s why you are unlikely to get stranded in the middle of nowhere without responsive assistance if you have an issue with your Hilux.
Why locally produced parts matter
Most of what you see is locally made. That makes the availability of service parts and crash replacement bits straightforward.
Another factor that supports the Hilux’s residual values – and the continued demand for these bakkies – has a lot to do with the localisation data that most buyers and car enthusiasts gloss over.
The more local content there is in a Hilux, the easier it is to source service and crash parts. And that’s important because the availability of crash parts or peculiar small service items are often a weakness among importers, especially many of the emerging Chinese brands.
Because so many parts that go into the new bakkie built in Prospecton are made by local suppliers, owners are unlikely to get stranded with a multi-month wait to fix an issue.
The Toyota Hilux success story in South Africa is one of rugged engineering. Lots of dealers. And lots of locally sourced parts ready for overnight dispatch. It’s like the Springboks having that first, second and third XV squad depth. The concept isn’t complicated but the execution is flawless, and that’s why it works.
The Toyota RAV4 is a global heavy hitter that helped pioneer the compact SUV revolution back in 1994. In its 6th-gen, the popular family vehicle arrives with fresh styling, improved interior refinement and enhanced chassis dynamics. We spent time with the GR-Sport derivative.
We like: Smooth and seamless hybrid powertrain; substantial cabin upgrade; impressive luggage space; relaxed and refined ride quality despite RAV4 GR-Sport tweaked suspension.
We don’t like: GR-Sport’s uncomfortably close to R1 million; absence of wireless smartphone mirror functionality; shorter vehicle warranty than most.
Sitting firmly in the midsize family-SUV category, the RAV4 contends with some of the fiercest competition in the local market. Traditional segment stalwarts like the Volkswagen Tiguan, Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 remain key rivals, while value-packed alternatives from Chinese brands such as the Haval H6, Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and Jetour T2 continue to exert pressure on pricing.
The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 moves away from subtle styling in favour of a bold, extroverted exterior presence, particularly in flashy GR-Sport trim.
Underneath the modern bodywork lies an updated iteration of Toyota’s modular TNGA platform, enhanced to deliver improved structural rigidity, lower noise levels, and enhanced ride composure.
Inside, the cabin represents a complete departure from previous iterations that were often criticised for plain aesthetics. Soft touchpoints combine with strong, squared-off visual design and functional ergonomics reminiscent of what we’ve seen in the Prado, new Hilux and Land Cruiser FJ.
A crisp, central touchscreen infotainment system handles primary media duties, supported by physical climate controls (rejoice!) and a customisable digital instrument cluster.
In terms of passenger packaging, the interior offers generous legroom and headroom in both rows, accompanied by a substantial 732-litre luggage bay featuring a flush-mounted audio subwoofer and a space-saver spare wheel under the boot board. As always, the RAV4 makes an excellent family car.
Performance & Efficiency
The self-charging hybrid setup pairs a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with electric power to generate a combined peak output of 176 kW. Power is directed to all four wheels via an electronic continuous variable transmission (e-CVT). The integration between petrol and electric propulsion is particularly seamless, switching between power sources without intrusion to the cabin.
While a drone-prone CVT often draws scrutiny from enthusiastic drivers, Toyota’s transmission logic fits the crossover’s relaxed character well, keeping the engine in its optimal efficiency band during urban commutes and open-road cruising.
Fuel economy remains a strong suit: while Toyota claims an unrealistic 4.5 L/100 km, real-world mixed usage hovers around the frugal 6.5 to 7.0 L/100 km mark. In dense city traffic, this should come down slightly because driving patterns favour an HEV like this.
Ride, Handling & Comfort
Despite sitting slightly lower on sport-tuned suspension and wearing Gazoo Racing branding, the GR-Sport derivative does not sacrifice everyday usability. Ride quality remains compliant and supple over coarse tarmac, isolating road imperfections with minimal harshness. The suspension tuning is truly well sorted.
The recalibrated steering offers slightly more weight, giving the driver a precise sense of control without attempting to transform the family vehicle into a mountain pass-focused machine.
Refinement is further aided by minimal wind noise and effective cabin insulation.
Off-road modes like Trail and Snow complement more than 200 mm of ground clearance, allowing for confident progress on unpaved gravel routes. Driver assistance features included in the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite (adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping aid, autonomous braking, and a high-resolution 360-degree camera system) operate smoothly in the background without intrusive or overly aggressive alerts. All-in-all, it’s a genuinely impressive showing.
Price & After-sales support
All RAV4 models are backed by Toyota’s 3-year/100 000 km vehicle warranty, 8-year/160 000 km battery warranty and 6-service/90 000 km service plan. It’s worth noting many rivals offers longer vehicle warranties.
The latest Toyota RAV4 builds comprehensively on its market heritage, pairing a much-needed interior upgrade with smooth hybrid efficiency and composed road manners.
While upper-tier variants demand a significant financial investment, especially when compared to rival from Jetour, Haval and Chery, the RAV4’s core strengths of space, refinement and low running costs continue to make it a formidable contender in the competitive compact SUV market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What powertrain is featured in the sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 2.5 HEV GR-Sport?
A: The hybrid model pairs a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with electric motors to produce a combined peak output of 176 kW, directed to all four wheels via an electronic continuous variable transmission (e-CVT).
Q: How much luggage capacity does the Toyota RAV4 offer?
A: The RAV4 provides a substantial luggage capacity of 732 litres, which includes a flush-mounted audio subwoofer and a space-saver spare wheel located beneath the boot board.
Q: What is the retail price of the Toyota RAV4 2.5 HEV GR-Sport in South Africa?
A: The RAV4 2.5 HEV GR-Sport is priced at R941 800, with the broader range starting from R770 500 (pricing correct as of August 2026).
Mazda CX-5 (2026) Price & Specs
The new Mazda CX-5 has officially arrived in South Africa, with all 4 derivatives in the local range powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine. Here’s what the newcomer costs…
4 derivatives available at launch
2.5-litre petrol mill offers 132 kW
Both FWD & AWD configurations
New Homura grade tops portfolio
The new Mazda CX-5 has officially touched down in South Africa, with this 3rd-generation crossover – which was revealed globally in July 2025 – gaining a new Homura flagship grade at the top of its 4-strong line-up.
As Cars.co.zareported in late July, the new KM-series CX-5 portfolio in South Africa comprises 4 derivatives at launch. The Japanese brand’s local division offers its familiar Active, Dynamic and Individual grades, along with a new “Homura” flagship specification.
All variants feature a “recalibrated” version of Mazda’s naturally aspirated 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which here generates peak outputs of 132 kW and 240 Nm. A 6-speed automatic transmission ships standard, with Mazda Southern Africa offering both front- (Active and Dynamic) and all-wheel-drive (Individual and Homura) derivatives.
The range kicks off with the CX-5 2.5 Active 6AT FWD, which is priced from R578 250. For the record, that represents a R7 750 increase over the outgoing model’s starting price, with that 3-strong line-up (topped by the Carbon Edition and instead employing a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine worth 121 kW and 213 Nm) having featured pricing bookends of R570 500 and R688 400.
The entry-level Active grade includes features like a reverse-view camera, automatic LED headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, a 12.9-inch touchscreen, an 8-speaker sound system, wireless smartphone charging, parking sensors (front and rear), tyre-pressure monitoring, black fabric upholstery, grey 17-inch alloy wheels and an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) package.
Meanwhile, the likewise front-driven CX-5 2.5 Dynamic 6AT FWD is priced at R636 000. The Dynamic specification upgrades to faux-leather upholstery (in a black-and-white colour combination), 8-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat (including a memory function), a head-up display (projected onto the windscreen), a memory function for the side mirrors, a powered tailgate, roof rails and black-and-silver 19-inch alloys.
Next comes the CX-5 2.5 Individual 6AT AWD, which features all-wheel drive and is priced from R717 000. The Individual grade boasts black 19-inch rims, black leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, a 360-degree camera system, 6-way power adjustment for the front-passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive LED headlamps, an “off-road” driving mode, piano-black exterior trim and a few extra ADAS functions.
Finally, the CX-5 2.5 Homura 6AT AWD tops the portfolio with a price of R749 100. This flagship Homura trim level is set apart by tan-and-black leather upholstery, a 15.5-inch touchscreen system, a hands-free function for the powered tailgate, paddle-shifters, heated seats (front and rear), a heated steering wheel and what Mazda terms a “driver personalisation system”.
The new Mazda CX-5 is available in South Africa in a choice of 8 exterior paint colours, including the Japanese brand’s signature Soul Crystal Red Metallic. The colour palette also features Navy Blue Mica, Arctic White, Rhodium White Metallic, Jet Black Mica, Machine Grey Metallic, Polymetal Grey Metallic and Aerogrey Metallic.
The KM-series model features evolved exterior styling, larger dimensions and extra cabin (and luggage) space. The newcomers furthermore gains a completely redesigned interior, including the fresh touchscreen options mentioned above.
As a reminder, the 2nd-gen CX-5 has been around since 2017 but remains Mazda Southern Africa’s best-selling model. In 2024, for instance, 1 218 units were registered in Mzansi, a figure that increased marginally to 1 242 units in 2025. A further 690 examples were sold locally over the opening 7 months of 2026.
Interestingly, the local CX-5 line-up was rationalised from 6 to 3 derivatives back in February 2024, with both the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine (140 kW and 450 Nm) and the 2.5-litre petrol mill (which back then made 143 kW and 258 Nm) removed from the range, leaving only the 2.0-litre petrol motor.
What does the new Mazda CX-5 cost in South Africa?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
CX-5 2.5 Active 6AT FWD
R578 250
CX-5 2.5 Dynamic 6AT FWD
R636 000
CX-5 2.5 Individual 6AT AWD
R717 000
CX-5 2.5 Homura 6AT AWD
R749 100
The prices above include Mazda’s 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a service plan with the same parameters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the starting price for the new Mazda CX-5 in South Africa?
A: The new Mazda CX-5 range starts at R578 250 for the entry-level 2.5 Active 6AT FWD derivative, spanning up to R749 100 for the top-of-the-range Homura flagship grade.
Q: How much do the 4 derivatives of the new Mazda CX-5 cost in South Africa?
A: Pricing for the 4-strong local lineup is as follows:
Mazda CX-5 2.5 Active 6AT FWD: R578 250
Mazda CX-5 2.5 Dynamic 6AT FWD: R636 000
Mazda CX-5 2.5 Individual 6AT AWD: R717 000
Mazda CX-5 2.5 Homura 6AT AWD: R749 100
Q: What engine, drivetrain options and warranty come with the new Mazda CX-5?
A: All derivatives are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine delivering 132 kW and 240 Nm paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The Active and Dynamic variants feature front-wheel drive (FWD), while the Individual and Homura grades get all-wheel drive (AWD). All models include Mazda’s 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and service plan.
The Mahindra Bolero Maxx has arrived in South Africa, with all 3 derivatives offered in a single-cab dropside body style. Here’s what the Indian-built bakkie costs in SA…
Bolero Maxx offers choice of payload capacities
Single-cab dropside body style comes standard
Pricing for Maxx starts at just under R200 000
Mahindra South Africa has officially launched the Bolero Maxx range, with all 3 derivatives offered in a single-cab dropside bakkie body style. The Maxx-badged model replaces the standard Bolero and gives local buyers a choice of 3 payload capacities.
As a reminder, the single outgoing Bolero derivative used a 46 kW/195 Nm 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine, offered a payload of 1 150 kg and was priced at R215 999. In contrast, the new line-up comprises a trio of derivatives at launch.
The Bolero Maxx 2.5Di City 1.3 4×2 5MT is priced at R199 000, with its 2.5-litre oil-burner delivering 52 kW and 200 Nm to the rear axle via a 5-speed manual gearbox. As you might have gleaned from its name, this entry-level variant has a payload of 1 300 kg.
Meanwhile, the Bolero Maxx 2.5Di City 1.5 4×2 5MT employs the same powertrain but features a carrying capacity of 1 500 kg, with its price increasing to R229 000. Finally, the Bolero Maxx 2.5Di HD 1.7 4×2 5MT costs R259 000, but is rated to carry 1 700 kg, with its engine’s outputs upgraded to 60 kW and 220 Nm.
Interestingly, the 3 derivatives feature different load-bay lengths (and indeed wheelbase and vehicle lengths): 2 500 mm for 1.3 City, 2 640 mm for the 1.5 City and 3 050 mm metres for the 1.7 HD. Claimed fuel consumption is 5.9 L/100 km in each case, while the flagship variant has a larger fuel tank, upgrading from a 45-litre item to a 60-litre tank.
All derivatives feature cloth seats in what the Indian brand describes as a “driver-plus-2” configuration, with the pews on the mid- and top-spec variants furthermore gaining “a stain-resistant coating for enhanced durability”.
As you might expect for a workhorse, the list of standard equipment is short. For instance, the base derivative does without ABS, air conditioning, demisting and a lockable air-cooled glovebox, though these items are standard on the other 2 variants. Rear parking sensors are fitted across the range, but keep in mind no airbags are included.
What does the Mahindra Bolero Maxx cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Bolero Maxx 2.5Di City 1.3 4×2 5MT
R199 000
Bolero Maxx 2.5Di City 1.5 4×2 5MT
R229 000
Bolero Maxx 2.5Di HD 1.7 4×2 5MT
R259 000
The prices above include a 4-year/120 000 km warranty, while a service plan is optional (though it’s worth noting service intervals are now 20 000 km, compared to the outgoing model’s 10 000 km).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the starting price for the new Mahindra Bolero Maxx in South Africa?
A: Pricing starts at R199 000 for the entry-level City 1.3 derivative, making it one of the most affordable new single-cab workhorses in South Africa.
Q: How much do the different Mahindra Bolero Maxx models cost and what are their payload capacities?
A: The lineup includes three single-cab dropside derivatives with varying payload capacities:
2.5Di City 1.3 4×2 5MT: R199 000 (1 300 kg payload capacity)
2.5Di City 1.5 4×2 5MT: R229 000 (1 500 kg payload capacity)
2.5Di HD 1.7 4×2 5MT: R259 000 (1 700 kg payload capacity)
Q: What engine and standard features come with the Mahindra Bolero Maxx range?
A: All models use a 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The City 1.3 and 1.5 variants produce 52 kW and 200 Nm, while the HD 1.7 derivative outputs 60 kW and 220 Nm. Standard equipment includes rear parking sensors and a 3-seater cloth cabin across the range, with ABS, air conditioning and a lockable air-cooled glovebox added on the City 1.5 and HD 1.7 models.
5 most affordable hatchbacks in South Africa (2026)
In the market for a new 5-door hatchback priced well below R200 000? Here are South Africa’s 5 most affordable hatchbacks right now…
While the crossover body style remains all the rage, there’s clearly still a place for basic hatchbacks on South Africa’s new-vehicle market. So, we sorted through the lower end of Mzansi’s passenger-car segment to pick out the 5 most affordable hatchbacks (prices correct in August 2026).
For the record, all 5 vehicles listed below are sourced from India, a country that accounted for a whopping 56.2% of all light vehicles imported into SA in 2025. Furthermore, each of the 5 hatchbacks featured here employs a naturally aspirated petrol engine driving its front axle via a 5-speed manual gearbox.
1. Renault Kwid 1.0 Evolution 5MT – R178 799
Late in 2025, Renault SA repositioned its Kwid range, cutting to base derivative’s starting price by R18 000 to make it Mzansi’s most affordable passenger car. It’s a title the Evolution grade still holds today, although only just. As a reminder, this variant features a 1.0-litre 3-pot generating 50 kW and 91 Nm.
Priced a mere R101 above the Kwid, the GL version of Suzuki’s S-Presso is currently the nation’s 2nd most affordable hatchback (like the Kwid, it’s styled to resemble a crossover but is classified as a hatchback). This derivative’s 3-cylinder engine also displaces a litre, although delivers marginally lower peak outputs of 49 kW and 89 Nm.
Toyota’s Vitz grabs 3rd place on this list, but it previously held the title of SA’s cheapest new car before Renault cut Kwid pricing. Based squarely on the Suzuki Celerio detailed below, the entry-level grade is interestingly unnamed. Power comes from the same 49 kW/89 Nm 1.0-litre 3-cylinder engine used by the S-Presso above.
Despite the Celerio serving as the donor vehicle for the Vitz, the GA version of the Suzuki is interestingly some R8 300 more expensive than its Toyota cousin (all while their specification sheets look rather similar indeed). Still, the Celerio scores a longer warranty.
With an engine displacing 1.2 litres, the Tata Tiago is the most powerful model here, offering some 63 kW and 113 Nm. Although the Tiago has been around in India since 2016 (and arrived in SA in September 2025), a refreshed version of this hatchback was revealed earlier in 2026, with a local launch expected to take place in the opening half of 2027.
Q: What is currently the most affordable new 5-door hatchback in South Africa?
A: The Renault Kwid 1.0 Evolution 5MT holds the title of South Africa’s most affordable hatchback, priced at R178 799. It is followed closely by the Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 GL 5MT at R178 900.
Q: Which vehicles make up South Africa’s 5 cheapest hatchbacks under R200 000?
A: The 5 most affordable 5-door hatchbacks (as of August 2026) are:
Renault Kwid 1.0 Evolution 5MT: R178 799
Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 GL 5MT: R178 900
Toyota Vitz 1.0 5MT: R182 400
Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GA 5MT: R188 900
Tata Tiago 1.2 XM 5MT: R189 900
Q: What common powertrain and manufacturing features do these budget hatchbacks share?
A: All 5 budget hatchbacks are imported from India and feature naturally aspirated petrol engines paired with a 5-speed manual transmission driving the front wheels. While the Kwid, S-Presso, Vitz and Celerio utilise 1.0-litre engines, the Tata Tiago offers a larger, more powerful 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine (63 kW/113 Nm).
The LDV T60 Utility Single Cab has officially arrived in South Africa, launched as one of the local market’s most affordable single-cab bakkies. Here’s what it costs…
T60 Utility Single Cab launched in South Africa
One of local market’s most affordable single cabs
Available in Mzansi in 4×2 & 4×4 configurations
The LDV T60 Utility Single Cab has officially touched down in South Africa, with this Chinese-built newcomer positioned as one of the local market’s most affordable single-cab bakkies.
Yes, the SAIC-owned automaker’s local division has confirmed the T60 Utility 2.0TD Single Cab 4×2 6MT starts R299 900, seeing it tie (with the JAC T6 2.0CTI Comfort 4×2 6MT and JMC Vigus Pro 2.4TD 4×2 5MT) for the title of SA’s 3rd most-affordable traditional single-cab bakkie.
Though LDV South Africa has confirmed a 4×4 version will be available too, pricing for this derivative has yet to be added to its website. In either case, however, a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine delivers peak outputs of 120 kW and 410 Nm via a 6-speed manual gearbox.
The company lists a payload capacity of “up to 1 170 kg” (presumably the figure for the 4×2 derivative), along with a braked towing capacity of 3 000 kg. The single cab measures 5 395 mm long, with a wheelbase of 3 155 mm, and seemingly rides on steel wheels as standard.
According to LDV, dual airbags and ABS with EBD ship standard, along with a rear foglamp, a Bluetooth-enabled audio system, air conditioning and a trio of driving modes. The automaker says the T60 Utility Single Cab features a 73-litre fuel tank, while its claimed “highway” consumption is 7.5 L/100 km and urban consumption 8.7 L/100 km.
What does the LDV T60 Utility Single Cab cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
T60 Utility 2.0TD Single Cab 4×2 6MT
R299 900
T60 Utility 2.0TD Single Cab 4×4 6MT
TBC
LDV has yet to confirm the warranty parameters for its T60 Utility Single Cab nor whether a service plan is included as standard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the starting price for the new LDV T60 Utility Single Cab in South Africa?
A: The LDV T60 Utility 2.0TD Single Cab 4×2 6MT starts at R299 900, positioning it as one of the country’s most affordable traditional single-cab bakkies.
Q: What engine and capability specs does the LDV T60 Single Cab offer?
A: The workhorse is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 120 kW and 410 Nm paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. It features a payload capacity of up to 1 170 kg and a braked towing capacity of 3 000 kg.
Q: What standard features and fuel efficiency figures are included with the LDV T60 Single Cab?
A: Standard features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, air conditioning, Bluetooth audio, three driving modes and a 73-litre fuel tank. LDV claims a highway fuel consumption of 7.5 L/100 km and an urban consumption of 8.7 L/100 km.
The 2nd-gen Kia Seltos brings a new design language, an overhauled interior and an updated platform. However, under the bonnet, it’s business as usual. Will it continue to distinguish itself in a fiercely contested segment?
It doesn’t feel like all that long ago when Kia introduced the original Seltos to Mzansi. Back then, it was a breath of fresh air – a smartly styled, sensibly packaged compact crossover that quickly established itself as one of the Korean brand’s biggest local success stories.
Fast forward to today, and the compact SUV landscape in South Africa is arguably the most fiercely contested slice of the motoring pie. With legacy players fighting for position and an aggressive wave of new arrivals keeping everyone on their toes, standing still simply isn’t an option.
The original Seltos was certainly no wallflower, but Kia’s design team has dialed up the visual presence significantly for this all-new iteration. Under Kia’s overarching “Opposites United” design approach, the new Seltos sports a much sharper, blockier profile that makes it look broader and distinctly more purposeful on the road.
Up front, the signature “Star Map” LED lighting cluster immediately catches your eye, complete with a neat animated welcome lighting sequence as you approach with the key.
Along the sides, flush-fitting door handles clean up the body lines while aiding aerodynamic efficiency, and a floating roof design paired with a strong shoulder line gives it a crisp silhouette.
At the rear, full-width vertical LED light bars stretch across the tailgate, giving the Seltos a stance that wouldn’t look out of place on a much larger, more expensive vehicle.
For buyers wanting something extra distinct, the range-topping X-Line derivative features an exclusive matte Dark Gun Metal Grey paint finish paired with full black alloy wheels. From the outside at least, Kia has ensured the new model looks every bit worth its asking price.
Climbing inside, the cabin represents a notable step forward in terms of layout and general ergonomics. Kia has reworked the dashboard around a low, horizontal plane, which does a great job of opening up forward visibility.
Depending on which derivative you choose, the tech setup scales accordingly. Base LS models make do with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but step up to the LX grade and above, and you get a larger 12.3-inch display. If you opt for the top-tier GT-Line S or X-Line models, that display is seamlessly paired with a 12-inch digital TFT instrument cluster to create a striking panoramic twin-screen layout across the dash.
Material quality feels solid throughout, with crisp graphics and intuitive controls. Thankfully, Kia hasn’t buried every single function into screen sub-menus; essential climate controls are still kept within easy reach.
Rear legroom is surprisingly generous, easily accommodating adults, while the boot offers a useful 447 litres of load space with a dual-level cargo floor that adds welcome practical versatility for weekend getaways. And importantly for South African motorists, all Seltos variants are fitted with a full-size spare wheel, under the boot floor, for easy access.
GT-Line models and above feature a panoramic sunroof and customisable 64-colour ambient lighting that elevate the cabin atmosphere nicely once the sun goes down. Higher-end models also add ventilated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, which made settling in for our launch route a breeze.
Safety equipment is comprehensive across the range, with 6 airbags, electronic stability control, and a rear-view camera standard on all models. GT-Line S and X-Line derivatives pack a full ADAS safety suite, including Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance, Lane Keeping Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality.
Ride, Handling & Comfort
Underneath the fresh skin sits Kia‘s latest K3 platform, which brings a welcome bump in structural rigidity and overall refinement. Ground clearance is rated at a healthy 200 mm, giving you plenty of confidence when tackling speed humps or rutted gravel roads.
During our time on the launch route, the underlying chassis proved impressive. The suspension setup (MacPherson struts at the front and a basic torsion beam at the rear) strikes a comfortable, composed balance over road imperfections while keeping body roll well contained in the bends. Road and wind noise levels are also noticeably lower than before.
Performance & Efficiency
Locally, Kia offers three engine choices across five trim levels: (LS, LX, GT-Line, GT-Line S, and X-Line):
1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol (85 kW/144 Nm): 6-speed manual or a CVT.
If you reside at sea level, the entry 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine provides honest, workmanlike performance for routine daily commuting. However, as I often remind buyers on the Highveld, non-turbocharged engines lose roughly 17% of their power due to thinner air at altitude. Up in Gauteng, when fully loaded with family and luggage, that 85 kW unit will likely require a firm right foot when executing overtaking manoeuvres or climbing inclines.
For those doing frequent open-road cruising or living up north, the 1.5-litre turbodiesel is an absolute standout. With 250 Nm of low-end torque mated to a smooth 6-speed automatic, it effortlessly handles overtaking manoeuvres while delivering impressive long-distance fuel economy.
If you prefer maximum punch, the flagship 1.5 T-GDi with 119 kW brings genuine eagerness to the party, though it carries a steeper price tag.
Kia Seltos Price & Aftersales support
All models include Kia‘s 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, but a sub-standard 3-year/45 000 km service plan. The outgoing model offered a 5-year/90 000 km plan (although, to be fair, retail pricing is lower on most models in the 2nd generation, and the service plan can be extended).
The second-generation Kia Seltos arrives with a significantly stronger argument than the car it replaces. It blends eye-catching kerb appeal, modern digital tech and genuine cabin practicality in a package that feels thoroughly up to date.
While the entry-level 1.5-litre petrol derivatives make sense as well-equipped budget commuters, the sweet spot in the line-up is the 1.5 CRDi GT-Line. Offering effortless low-down torque, frugality, and a generous feature count, it makes a compelling case against both established rivals and the growing influx of new crossover competitors in Mzansi.
With a combination of keen pricing and high spec levels, as well as a rare (for this segment especially) and coveted diesel option, Kia has raised the bar for its compact SUV, and I’m confident that it is destined to remain a heavyweight contender on South African roads.
What engine options are available for the Kia Seltos in South Africa?
The Kia Seltos is offered in South Africa with three powertrain choices: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 85 kW and 144 Nm, a fuel-efficient 1.5-litre CRDi turbodiesel outputting 85 kW and 250 Nm, and a range-topping 1.5-litre T-GDi turbopetrol delivering 119 kW and 253 Nm.
How much does the Kia Seltos cost in South Africa?
The Kia Seltos lineup spans across five trim grades (LS, LX, GT-Line, GT-Line S, and X-Line):
The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol variants claim an average combined fuel consumption of between 6.2 and 6.4 L/100 km. The 1.5-litre CRDi turbodiesel models are the most efficient in the lineup, claiming 5.3 L/100 km.
What interior technology features come in the Kia Seltos?
The cabin features a driver-centric horizontal dashboard layout with a 10.25-inch infotainment display as standard on entry models, upgrading to a dual 12.3-inch panoramic display system on higher trims with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia’s Star Map LED exterior lighting design.
What warranty and service plan come standard with the Kia Seltos?
All new Kia Seltos models sold in South Africa include Kia’s signature 5-year / unlimited kilometre manufacturer warranty with 5-year unlimited roadside assistance, alongside a 3-year / 45,000 km pre-paid service plan.
The real monthly cost of owning a financed car (2026)
You might have stretched your budget to the limit just to get that shiny new car onto your driveway. But besides your monthly finance instalment, a raft of mandatory running costs can nearly double your true outlay. How is that even possible?
Whether you’re the first-time owner of a new VW Polo or VW Polo Vivo, or a dreamer finally snapping up a Porsche, or you sit somewhere in between, the reality of financing a car is that it’s much more expensive than just the monthly instalment. You may be able to save on fuel by driving outside of rush-hour, but as with all loans, the utilisation of credit for the purchase of an asset attracts additional administrative and compliance cost.
What are these and how much extra are we talking about? Let’s find out.
A monthly instalment of R5k on a new Polo Vivo might sound appealing, but beware the additional costs!
Vehicle finance instalment: Why your bank quote is only half the story
Responsible car shopping is determined by your total cost of living each month. Bond or rent, groceries, utilities and school fees all come first: only then should you start thinking about tyre-kicking for new wheels. How much can you really afford? This is where online finance and affordability calculators are essential tools for estimating base repayments at various rates. For instance, how much does your down payment differ according to interest rates when you structure your finance plan over 60 or 72 months? Small or big deposit? With or without a balloon payment at the end?
All of which help you answer the key question: how much is car finance monthly? And looking beyond the self-sabotaging “instalment-only” budgeting mindset.
Comprehensive insurance & tracking: The non-negotiable monthly add-on cost
Here’s where the add-ons start to, um, add up.
A financed car belongs to the bank until it has been fully paid off. In legal terms, the bank is the owner and you are the operator during this period.
To protect their asset against loss or damage for the duration of finance agreement, they require that you take out comprehensive insurance cover and usually have an approved tracking device installed.
While the cost of insurance varies according to your risk profile (which is determined by, among other factors, your age, claims history, address and vehicle type), the tracker subscription is fixed. Both of these are grudge purchases that can’t be wished away, but they do provide peace of mind should the unforeseeable happen. The bottom line, however, is that they’re expenses you might not have budgeted for when first embarking on your car shopping journey.
This is where the rubber hits the road. Literally … but also financially. With all your motoring costs fixed, you may at this stage think the one variable you do have control over is your monthly fuel budget. You can avoid peak hours or choose highways over fuel-hungry urban stop-start driving. Just remember that every kilometre driven amounts to wear and tear, which is where regular maintenance comes in.
Your new car may have had a service plan bundled into its price, which is limited by time or distance driven; typically 3 years. So that’s only temporary initial relief, and the plan doesn’t cover consumable items such as brakes (unless it’s a maintenance plan) and tyres. The good news is that, by adopting fuel-saving driving habits, you’re also extending these items’ longevity.
The 1.5x rule: How to calculate your true monthly cost of ownership
If you’re busy crunching the affordability numbers and find the additional costs confusing or downright daunting, we don’t blame you.
There’s a simple (and, truthfully, slightly scary) way to frame your calculations based around your vehicle’s monthly instalment: use the finance payment as a base amount and multiply that cost by 1.5 to 1.7 times to factor in all costs.
Cost component
Monthly cost (est.)
The cost item explained
Finance instalment
R5 800 (after 10% deposit on a R300 000 vehicle)
Bank repayment (R270 000 financed @ prime +1.5% over 60 months)
Bank admin fee
R69
NCA-capped monthly service fee charged by credit providers
Comprehensive insurance
R1 350
Required by banks for financed cars; varies by driver age & risk profile
Vehicle tracker
R300
Required by most SA insurers/lenders for high-theft risk models
Fuel budget
R2 200
1 200 km/month @ 7.0 L/100km (using inland 95 ULP prices as at August 2026)
The safest, most carefree car-ownership experience is the one that leaves your wallet breathing room at the end of every month. By doing the math upfront and budgeting for the entire ecosystem around the vehicle, you can enjoy the ride without the post-delivery shock. Put differently: if you can’t comfortably budget closer to R10 400, you aren’t ready for that R5 800 instalment just yet.
How well did the new GWM Ora 5 sell in its launch month?
Soon after launch, the new GWM Ora 5 has already far eclipsed the fully electric Ora 03’s overall sales figure, despite the latter having been around for nearly 3 years…
New Ora 5 hits the ground running in SA
Already well past Ora 03’s overall total
Available with choice of 3 powertrains
The new GWM Ora 5 officially hit the market in South Africa on 8 July 2026, available with a choice of 3 distinct powertrains. So, how well did the Chinese brand’s newest crossover sell in its launch month?
According to figures reported to industry-representative body Naamsa, GWM SA registered 276 units of the new Ora 5 locally in July 2026 (in addition to the 19 units registered in June 2026 as so-called “single” registrations). Some 274 units were sold via the dealer channel, with the remaining 2 examples reported as sales to the rental industry.
Naamsa unfortunately doesn’t show a sales breakdown by powertrain.
That means the new Ora 5 – across a partial month, no less – has already far outsold the fully electric Ora 03, which our records suggest has reached a cumulative total of just 84 units since arriving in South Africa way back in November 2023.
Furthermore, the newcomer – which is available locally in turbopetrol, hybrid and fully electric form – outsold the Tank 300 (182 units) and the Haval H7 (18 units) in July 2026, and wasn’t far behind the Haval H6 (360 units) either. For the record, GWM didn’t sell any Tank 500 units in July, though that will surely change once the new 3.0-litre turbodiesel arrives later this year.
The new Ora 5 hit the market on 8 July 2026.
The Jolion (1 132 units) still led the way for GWM last month, while the P-Series – comprising both the P300 and P500 ranges – added a healthy 536 units in the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) segment, seeing it retain 5th on the list of SA’s best-selling bakkies. In the end, GWM SA dropped a place to 7th in July 2026, with sales slipping 4.0% month on month to 2 504 units.
As a reminder, the local Ora 5 line-up comprises 6 front-wheel-drive derivatives, with each of the aforementioned powertrain options available in conjunction with both the Chinese brand’s Super Luxury and Ultra Luxury grades.
Its arrival signals the relaunch of GWM’s Ora sub-brand.
The line-up kicks off with the 1.5T Super Luxury DCT at R364 900, while the 1.5T HEV Super Luxury DHT is priced at R424 900 – making it SA’s most affordable traditional HEV. The Super Luxury BEV is the entry point for the fully electric version, priced at R549 900.
The Ora 5 crossover measures 4 471 mm from snout to rump, while offering a wheelbase of 2 720 mm. That makes it a single millimetre longer than the Haval Jolion Pro (and just a millimetre shorter than the standard Jolion), with an additional 20 mm between its axles, too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many units of the new GWM Ora 5 were sold in South Africa during its launch month?
A: GWM SA registered 276 units of the new Ora 5 in South Africa during July 2026 (following 19 “single” registrations in June). Out of the July total, 274 units were sold through the dealer network and 2 were registered for rental fleets.
Q: How do sales of the new GWM Ora 5 compare to the electric Ora 03?
A: In just its launch month, the Ora 5 far eclipsed the overall sales total of the fully electric Ora 03, which has reached a cumulative total of 84 units since its local launch in November 2023.
Q: What powertrain options and pricing are available for the GWM Ora 5 line-up in South Africa?
A: The 6-derivative range is offered across 3 powertrains in Super Luxury and Ultra Luxury trims:
1.5T Turbopetrol: Starts at R364 900 (Super Luxury DCT).
1.5T Hybrid (HEV): Starts at R424 900 (Super Luxury DHT), making it South Africa’s most affordable traditional hybrid.
Fully Electric (BEV): Starts at R549 900 (Super Luxury BEV).
