The new Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 has officially hit the market in South Africa. Here’s what this petrol-powered (with mild-hybrid assistance) sedan will cost you…
New CLA 200 makes landfall in SA
1.5-litre petrol mill with 48V tech
0-100 kph in claimed 8.0 seconds
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 has officially touched down in South Africa. Revealed back in March 2025, the 3rd-generation (C178) version of the sleek sedan will be available – initially, at least – in just a single derivative in Mzansi.
According to Mercedes-Benz SA, the CLA 200’s base price is R937 000, though this excludes emissions tax. Once the latter is factored in, the starting price comes in at R939 519. For the record, that’s R36 645 more than the outgoing CLA 200 and just R3 987 short of the base C-Class (the C200 Avantgarde, from R943 506).
The new CLA 200 is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance (via a 22 kW/200 Nm electric motor integrated into the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission). The petrol engine delivers 120 kW and 250 Nm to the front axle, while the international specification sheet lists total system outputs as 135 kW and 330 Nm.
That sees the CLA 200’s claimed 0-100 kph time fall to a claimed 8.0 seconds and top speed climb slightly to 232 kph, while CO2 emissions improve from 154 g/km to 123 g/km. The listed combined fuel consumption, meanwhile, comes in at 5.4 L/100 km.
Locally, the CLA 200 is offered in Progressive guise as standard, with the AMG Line package costing R47 400 and the AMG Line Plus package some R111 100. There’s also the Night Package (R19 000), along with the AMG Line Sports Seat Package (R16 000).
Other options listed on the configurator include Multibeam LED headlamps (R11 200), a head-up display (R17 800), MBUX augmented reality for navigation (R10 000) and a Burmester 3D surround-sound system (R21 500).
What does the new Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Mercedes-Benz CLA 200
R939 519
The price above includes a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the launch pricing for the new Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 in South Africa?
A: The 3rd-generation (C178) Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 launches with a base price of R937 000. Once emissions tax is factored in, the final starting price is R939 519. This places the sleek sedan R36 645 above the previous-generation model and slightly under the entry-level C-Class (C200 Avantgarde) pricing threshold.
Q: What are the engine specifications, performance metrics, and efficiency figures for the new CLA 200?
A: The sedan is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine featuring 48V mild-hybrid technology. The hybrid setup integrates a 22 kW/200 Nm electric motor into an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, resulting in total system outputs of 135 kW and 330 Nm. It achieves a 0-100 km/h sprint in 8.0 seconds, a top speed of 232 km/h and a claimed average fuel consumption of 5.4 L/100 km.
Q: What trim packages and optional extras are available for the new CLA 200 locally?
A: The CLA 200 comes standard in Progressive trim. Buyers can customize the vehicle with cosmetic and performance packages including the AMG Line (R47 400), AMG Line Plus (R111 100) or the Night Package (R19 000). Premium optional extras featured on the local configurator include a Burmester 3D surround-sound system (R21 500), a head-up display (R17 800) and Multibeam LED headlamps (R11 200).
Geely Coolray vs Toyota Corolla Cross – how do they differ?
The newly launched Geely Coolray takes on the similarly sized Toyota Corolla Cross. There are some interesting pricing overlaps, but their specs differ markedly…
Geely’s second (current) South African chapter is proving to be much more successful than the first. Geely is having a moment and its recent success in South Africa is not just due to Chinese ultra-value sentiment among customers.
In fact, Geely offers products that make sense for local conditions. One of those is the all-new Coolray, an affordable crossover with an ICE engine and considered specification.
What is the new Coolray?
Probably not that aero-functional, but former hot hatch owners would approve.
Chinese car companies are bold in everything, from design to naming. And Geely’s ‘hot’ compact crossover is no exception: it is called the Coolray, after all. Despite having seen the light way back in 2018, the Coolray midsize crossover offers a sporty and contemporary design.
The engine and gearbox are what you’d expect from a Chinese crossover of its size. The Coolray is powered by a 1.5-litre turbopetrol, rated at 128 kW and 290 Nm. They’re impressive numbers and will make light work of the Coolray’s mass at oxygen-starved Highveld altitudes.
The gearbox is a 7-speed ‘wet’ dual-clutch, which offers very rapid downshifts when you need to get into a gap in traffic, or to pull out and overtake slower traffic on the highway.
Huge 14.6-inch touchscreen is nearly twice the size of the Corolla Cross’s.
The Vertex is the top Coolray grade, yet costs just R429 900. It features 18-inch black alloy wheels that look great (but will show dirt daily in South Africa’s dusty driving conditions) and inside it features artificial-leather seats, a 72(!)-colour ambient lighting system, a 6-speaker sound system, and a wireless charging pad. The tailgate is powered, too.
Vertex safety spec is comprehensive for the price, too. The Coolray boasts a 540-degree panoramic camera system to enhance driver awareness at low speeds and in complex driving situations, especially when there’s a lot of traffic or pedestrians around.
The Vertex has many useful, rather than intrusive, driver-assistance systems, too. It features adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning and autonomous emergency braking. The tally is completed with 6 airbags.
Are there packaging issues? The luggage capacity is quite tight, but more on that later…
What does the Corolla Cross range offer as a counter?
For top-spec Geely money, you only get an entry-level Corolla Cross.
Market-leading pricing, features and power ratings have helped Chinese car companies gain market share in South Africa. And comparing the Coolray to South Africa’s most established legacy mid-size crossover is telling.
If your budget tops at the Coolray Vertex’s level, you have to opt for a Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi, which is the entry-level grade. When you compare their stats, the Geely is better than the Toyota in many ways.
A Coolray has nearly 25% more engine power, and that advantage is even bigger when you compare the two crossovers at altitude. Why? The Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi has a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre engine, meaning it loses significant power at Highveld altitudes.
Conversely, the Corolla Cross will be smoother in traffic thanks to its CVT transmission compared to the Geely’s dual-clutch gearbox, a configuration that tends to feel a tad clunky in stop-start conditions.
There’s no comparison when you look at their cabin features or safety equipment. The Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi does not have autonomous cruise control, automated emergency braking, or a panoramic surround-view camera system. It also has one fewer airbag.
Comfort and convenience differences are stark. The Toyota lacks a wireless charging pad, and its 8-inch touchscreen feels ancient in comparison with the Geely’s 14.6-inch item.
You get 25% more luggage space in the Corolla Cross – that’s a big difference.
Here the Toyota claws back some ground… For road trips and long-distance driving, the Corolla Cross might lack performance, but Toyota knows the South African market better than any other brand. That’s why the Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi has real-world features that really benefit owners.
The first is luggage space. All the infotainment screens and safety features in the world won’t be much help if your boot can’t take all your family’s holiday paraphernalia. The Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi offers 440 litres of packing room, which bests the Coolray’s 330-litre figure by a third.
And then there’s the spare-wheel issue…
Coolray looks terrific. But before your road trip: know that it doesn’t have a spare wheel – at all.
Nobody thinks about their vehicle’s spare wheel until they are stranded next to the road, at night, in a high-risk area, and discover there isn’t one.
The issue is that many European product planners have a mandate to reduce vehicle weight and downsize full-size spare wheels to emergency space-savers. Chinese product planners are even more minimalist; they don’t include any spare wheel at all.
Full-size spare wheels still carry real value for new-car buyers in South Africa, with good reason. Potholes and construction site debris (such as nails and screws) pose a real risk of punctures.
The Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi does not have a full-size spare wheel, but it does have a decently sized space saver, which can get you home if you get a puncture some distance from the next city or town. Geely’s Coolray Vertex does not even have a space-saver spare wheel. It only has an emergency repair kit, which is totally impractical for South African conditions.
So, Geely Coolray or Toyota Corolla Cross?
The Geely Coolray Vertex is much better equipped than a Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi. The Chinese crossover has more power and better overtaking performance, too.
But, for buyers who need the packing space and some form of spare wheel redundancy when driving long distances or on weekend away trips, the Corolla Cross is superior.
The next-generation CX-5 is almost in SA but don’t discount the current model just yet. We took the keys to the Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition to see if it still deserves a spot on your shopping list.
We like: Resolved ride and drive; engaging steer; minimalist cabin; fit and finish; appealing Carbon Edition trim.
We don’t like: Naturally aspirated motor needs to be pushed to get the best out of it, at the expense of economy; infotainment system lags behind modern rivals.
What you’re looking at is the last of this generation of Mazda CX-5, and what a legacy it has created. The 2nd-generation model launched locally in 2017 with both petrol and diesel engines, as well as the option of all-wheel drive. As is the case with most Japanese brands, product lifecycles are generally quite long between generations, with an assortment of small improvements, rationalisation and special editions introduced through a lifespan.
One of those iterations is Carbon Edition, which Mazda uses across its entire SUV portfolio. Carbon Edition is essentially a sportier-looking trim level with added content.
With the imminent arrival of the all-new 3rd-generation CX-5, the question is: should you consider the outgoing model as a purchase?
Design is a subjective topic – after all, one person’s treasure is another’s trash – but we feel the Mazda CX-5 design (especially in its trademark Soul Red) has aged beautifully. It’s unmistakably Mazda and has kept pace with the times. It’s inoffensive and unpolarising, just like its target market.
Going for the Carbon Edition flagship adds additional content like front/rear parking sensors, a head-up display, adaptive LED headlamps and so on. We would have liked some form of semi-autonomous safety like forward collision warning, but as this vehicle’s on runout, we anticipate such features in the new-generation CX-5.
The infotainment offering lags behind its competitors, but that’s understandable given its age. The screen itself doesn’t offer touchscreen functionality, instead relying on the rotary controller located near the driver’s left leg. Initially a little unconventional in operation, you’ll soon get used to it.
As an added convenience, the vehicle is offered with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, which allows for navigation and streaming audio apps. There are just a handful of USB ports dotted around the forward cabin.
The rest of the cabin is an exercise in Japanese class and ergonomics, blending functionality with pleasantly tactile materials. The switchgear for the climate control, for instance, feels reassuringly solid. The Carbon Edition adds some sportier touches like red stitching throughout the cabin which helps break the continuous black-on-black colour theme.
If you’re an audiophile, you’re in for a treat. The CX-5 Carbon Edition features a Bose audio system, complete with a subwoofer located inside the spare wheel. It’s one of the better systems, offering punchy bass and clarity without distortion.
The Mazda CX-5 has always been a genuinely spacious and practical family SUV – rear passengers benefit from not only ample space, but also proper seating. A number of cars prioritise the front two seats and neglect the ergonomics and shape of the rear seats, but this is not the case. Given the vehicle’s age, it comes as no surprise that creature comforts like USB ports are lacking.
Performance & Efficiency
The naturally aspirated petrol engine is something Mazda has become renowned for. While there are turbocharged powertrains in other markets, Mazda SA has stuck with what it knows. It has Skyactiv-G technology, which is Mazda’s proprietary name for its ultra-high compression ratio tech.
In a market saturated with punchy turbocharged compact engines, the CX-5 Carbon Edition is somewhat of an anomaly. With outputs of 121 kW and 213 Nm driving the front wheels via an old-school 6-speed automatic, performance is adequate rather than scintillating. Mazda claims 0-100 kph in 10.4 seconds, but our testing equipment confirmed it was a tad quicker than that at 9.75 seconds.
Activate the sport mode, which essentially instructs the gearbox to hold onto the ratios a little longer, and be prepared to exploit all of those revs… Thankfully, the gearbox is good at what it does, with shifts programmed to be as unobtrusive as possible. There are paddles, but we didn’t feel the need for them.
The downside of this vehicle’s powertrain is that, to make meaningful in-gear acceleration, you will be stretching that engine’s rev range. If you’re accustomed to turbocharged torque achieved lower down the rev range, overtaking will feel like a chore.
With the engine needing to work harder, fuel economy suffers. Mazda claims an optimistic figure of 6.9 L/100 km. Despite our best efforts and trying to be mindful, we couldn’t better 8.8 L/100 km. We do miss that defunct 2.2-litre diesel powertrain which would have been quicker and more efficient.
Ride, Handling & Comfort
The Mazda CX-5 was one of the original crew of legacy-brand SUVs that placed an emphasis on the ‘S’. With a product like the sharp-handling MX-5 roadster in its portfolio, Mazda made the CX-5 drive with more engagement than it needed to. This remains the case with the CX-5 Carbon Edition and expectations of the new one are high.
The wheels are finished in gloss black and look great. They’re 19-inch in size, which is smaller than you’ll find on some competitors, but the trade-off is higher side walls to aid ride comfort.
The composure and balance of the drive is impressive. While the CX-5 isn’t marketed as an overly sporty family SUV, you’ll find yourself taking corners a little quicker than normal, purely based on the grin-inducing factor. The steering is well weighted and direct, and you feel in total control of the vehicle.
Ride quality is an excellent blend of firm and engaging, without any of the harshness associated with such sportiness. If only it had the engine to back up the dynamics and those looks…
Price & After-sales support
The Mazda CX-5 is sold with a 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/unlimited kilometre service plan.
CX-5 Active
R570 500
CX-5 Dynamic
R617 900
CX-5 Carbon Edition
R688 400
Pricing correct as of July 2026.
Verdict
With the all-new Mazda CX-5 arriving next month, this generation of CX-5 has finally come to an end, and what a legacy! From winning the Family Car category in our Consumer Awards not once but twice, the CX-5 has endeared itself to us on numerous occasions.
If you were to purchase this CX-5 right now, it’s unlikely you’ll be disappointed. And, if you are shopping in this segment, it’s worth investigating whether dealers are keen to clear out old stock by offering generous discounts.
At this stage, pricing for the newcomer is yet to be confirmed, but we’re bracing ourselves for a substantial increase. The new engine will be a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol, with mild-hybrid powertrains potentially on the cards.
What engine powers the Mazda CX-5 lineup in South Africa?
The core Mazda CX-5 range is powered by a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G petrol engine that sends 121 kW of power and 213 Nm of torque to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.
What are the available model derivatives and pricing for the Mazda CX-5?
The Mazda CX-5 model lineup is structured into three main automatic derivatives:
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Active Auto: Priced from R570 500
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic Auto: Priced from R617 900
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Carbon Edition Auto: Priced from R688 400
What is the fuel consumption of the Mazda CX-5 2.0L?
The 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engine features an average claimed combined fuel consumption rating of approximately 6.9 litres per 100 km.
What warranty and service plan coverage comes standard with the Mazda CX-5?
Mazda vehicles in South Africa come backed by comprehensive coverage that includes a 5-year / unlimited kilometre manufacturer warranty, a matching 5-year / unlimited kilometre service plan, and 5-year / unlimited kilometre roadside assistance. Service intervals are set at every 15 000 km.
Jetour refreshes Dashing and X70 Plus (and cuts starting price)
The Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus have both been refreshed in South Africa, scoring extra power, a new transmission and a lower starting price. Here’s what they cost…
Dashing and X70 Plus refreshed in Mzansi
Both upgrade to more powerful 1.5T unit
Respective starting prices drop R10 000
Jetour South Africa has refreshed its Dashing and X70 Plus models, handing the pair of Chinese crossovers extra oomph, a new transmission, tweaked exterior styling and revised trim-level names – as well as a reduced starting price.
As a reminder, Jetour marked its official arrival in Mzansi in September 2024 with the launch of these 2 models (though has since added the T1 and particularly popular T2). So, what updates have been made to the Dashing and X70 Plus nearly 2 years later?
Exterior changes to the Dashing appear largely limited to the addition of red accents.
Well, perhaps the most significant change involves the powertrain. Previously, a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine offered peak outputs of 115 kW and 230 Nm. The updated Dashing and X70 Plus both switch to a motor of the same configuration though now generating 125 kW and 270 Nm. Furthermore, the old 6-speed dual-clutch transmission makes way for a 7-speed item.
Since the Chinese brand’s local division has yet to release a detailed specification sheet (to the media or on its website), it’s not yet clear what impact these powertrain changes might have on fuel economy. For the record, Jetour SA’s press material says only that the “result is stronger performance, improved efficiency and a more refined driving experience”.
A closer look at the revised grille design of the X70 Plus.
As before, the 5-seater Dashing and 7-seater X70 Plus ranges each comprise just a pair of derivatives, though the old Momentum and Deluxe grades have been ditched in favour of new Prestige and Prime trim levels. The Dashing 1.5T Prestige 7DCT is priced at R429 900 (some R10 000 less than before), while the Dashing 1.5T Prime 7DCT comes in at R479 900 (an increase of R10 000).
Meanwhile, the refreshed X70 Plus 1.5T Prestige 7DCT is priced at R444 900 (which likewise sees the starting price fall R10 000), with the X70 Plus 1.5T Prime 7DCT available for R494 900 (again, R10 000 up on the outgoing version).
That red stripe will make it easy to spot an updated Dashing out on the road.
Without any official specification sheets to draw on, we can’t tell to what extent standard equipment levels have changed. We do know, however, that the refreshed Dashing features red exterior accents (along its flanks, up front and at the rear), while the revised X70 Plus scores an updated grille and a new design for its 19-inch alloy wheels. Jetour SA also says both models gain “advanced safety enhancements”.
What does the Jetour Dashing cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Jetour Dashing 1.5T Prestige 7DCT
R429 900
Jetour Dashing 1.5T Prime 7DCT
R479 900
What does the Jetour X70 Plus cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Jetour X70 Plus 1.5T Prestige 7DCT
R444 900
Jetour X70 Plus 1.5T Prime 7DCT
R494 900
The prices above seemingly include a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty, a 10-year/1-million kilometre engine warranty (for the first owner) and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What updates have been made to the powertrains of the refreshed Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus?
A: Both the refreshed 5-seater Dashing and 7-seater X70 Plus receive a substantial engine upgrade, switching to a more powerful turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. Output rises from the previous 115 kW and 230 Nm to a stronger 125 kW and 270 Nm. Additionally, the previous 6-speed dual-clutch transmission has been replaced with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT).
Q: How has the model range changed, and what are the new starting prices for these crossovers?
A: Jetour has dropped the old Momentum and Deluxe trim names in favour of new Prestige and Prime grades. The starting price for both lineups has decreased by R10 000, while the top-spec variants have increased by R10 000. The Dashing 1.5T Prestige 7DCT starts at R429 900 and the Prime costs R479 900. The X70 Plus 1.5T Prestige 7DCT starts at R444 900, while the Prime model retails for R494 900.
Q: What styling tweaks distinguish the refreshed Jetour models, and what warranty covers them?
A: The updated Dashing features distinctive red exterior accents on its nose and flanks, while the refreshed X70 Plus benefits from a revised grille design and new 19-inch alloy wheels. Both ranges also gain advanced safety enhancements.
What happens when your car is written off while it’s still financed?
At the best of times, a written-off vehicle is a nightmare, but it’s far worse if it’s still under finance. Here’s a straightforward guide on how the process works when a financed car is written off in South Africa; how to protect yourself from debt gaps; and the steps you need to take to minimise the financial damage.
When it comes to vehicle accidents, the one consequence all owners fear most is the phrase “written off”. Injury, inconvenience and the destruction of your car aside, the real wreck could be your finances, especially if it’s still under loan. But how does the car-write off process work; who is liable for the outstanding debt under such circumstances; and is there any way you could walk away from a write-off without drowning in debt?
What happens when a financed car is written off?
An insurer may declare a vehicle a total loss when the cost of repairs, salvage value, storage, towing and associated expenses make repair uneconomical relative to the vehicle’s insured value. In practice, this often occurs when repair costs approach 60-70% of the vehicle’s value, although the threshold varies between insurers.
Write-offs can be either structural or economic in nature. Usually, a vehicle is either too damaged to be safely repaired, or technically fixable yet it’s too expensive to feasibly do so.
Assuming your car is still under finance, the financial institution retains ownership until the agreement has been settled. In a write-off scenario, the insurer will normally settle the outstanding amount with the finance house first.
A value surplus is created only if the car’s pre-accident retail value was higher than what you still owe the bank. Your policy excess remains payable and may be either deducted from the settlement, or recovered separately, depending on your insurer. Whatever is left will be repaid to you and can be used towards a deposit for your next vehicle.
In the example below, let’s assume your vehicle gets written off with a R300k outstanding debt.
Financial component
Standard comprehensive cover only
Comprehensive + shortfall cover
Balloon payment (no shortfall cover)
Outstanding bank debt
R300 000
R300 000
R380 000 (due to 35% balloon)
Vehicle retail value (payout)
R250 000
R250 000
R250 000
Policy excess payable
R5 000
R5 000
R5 000
Net insurance payout to bank
R245 000
R245 000
R245 000
Who pays the remaining gap?
The driver
Shortfall insurance
The driver
Final out-of-pocket cost to driver
R55 000
R5 000 (Excess only)
R135 000
Actual settlements differ between insurers and finance agreements.
The insurance payout vs the bank settlement: Understanding the shortfall
Owing to vehicle depreciation (often up to 20% in the first year), along with the corrosive effect on value of interest and long finance terms, an owner can easily find themselves in a state of negative equity. That means the bank is owed more than what a vehicle is worth.
Should your vehicle be written off in this period, standard comprehensive insurance will pay out only the retail value. You will be liable for the credit shortfall on a car you no longer drive.
This is where top-up cover becomes essential. Many dealerships, finance providers and insurers offer shortfall cover when you buy a vehicle to protect you against further financial losses arising from the debt gap that isn’t covered by your regular insurance.
While easily deemed a grudge add-on at the point of purchase, it could mean the difference between solvency and financial ruin on the day your car is written off.
How balloon payments & loan arrears affect your write-off claim
If your vehicle finance plan is structured with a balloon payment, things could get a lot worse…
As balloon packages are used to reduce monthly instalments, the impending final balloon payment means the residual value and associated shortfall risk will be significantly higher in the early stages of the finance cycle.
That’s because up to 40% of the vehicle value is deferred to the final lump sum payment, and a larger portion of initial payments goes towards interest, reducing the capital owed more slowly. Should the car be written off in this period, the finance agreement must be settled immediately. If the balloon amount forms part of the outstanding balance, it effectively becomes payable at settlement.
It is also worth knowing that shortfall insurance isn’t a safety net for settling missed payments or accumulated arrears. They’re still legally your responsibility.
How to complete the write-off process: Your final responsibilities
You may think the hard yards are over once the bank and insurance company have agreed to the payout value, yet there are still some remaining steps for you to follow to wrap it up.
Unless instructed otherwise by the bank, do not stop paying your monthly instalments until the bank receives its settlement amount from the insurance company (which may take a few months) and closes the account. Stopping the debit order early will flag you for missed payments and earn you a lower credit score, which in turn will make it harder or pricier to finance your next vehicle.
Cancel your vehicle tracking subscription.
Request pro-rata refunds on value-added cover. If you opted to bundle an extended service plan, warranty or scratch-and-dent cover with your vehicle finance, you may be entitled to a partial refund, as the car no longer exists. This may depend on the terms and conditions initially agreed to.
Finally, because the insurance company is effectively buying the salvage from the bank, you may also be asked to sign ownership transfer and deregistration documentation so the insurer can take ownership of the salvage and update the vehicle’s status on the national register.
For car lovers, a written-off vehicle is tantamount to a personal tragedy. Often the administrative hassle is as traumatic as the loss of the asset itself … and that’s even before the financial hangover.
Financial well-being is not so much about liquidity, as it is about being informed. Understanding how settlements are calculated along with dodging administrative traps and having shortfall cover in place are the strongest insurance policies to protect your wallet, credit score and purchase of your next vehicle.
5 new Changan products coming to Mzansi
Our recent trip to China with Changan South Africa gave us a glimpse into the brand’s plans, including which models it plans to launch locally. The question is, how will consumers respond to even more products joining an already overcrowded market?
As difficult as it must be for legacy car brands to stay afloat while the market is being disrupted by Chinese vehicles, the internal competition among fellow Chinese carmakers is equally fierce. Each brand is vying for a slice of the pie. For consumers looking to buy a new car, it must be overwhelming – each week, it feels like there’s another new Chinese vehicle to choose from.
So, guess what… We’re here to let you know Changan doesn’t have 1 or 2 products ready to go. In fact, it has 5. Before you scoff at this news, it’s important to note that Changan is not a small start-up. In fact, it’s the oldest car manufacturer in China, with nearly 70 years of experience in making vehicles. So, when a company with such heritage decides to take the South African market as seriously as it is, it’s a good thing. Here are some of the products we’ll see in South Africa soon.
Which models can we expect?
Changan Nevo Q05
Set to arrive in 2027, Changan South Africa is very excited to launch the Nevo Q05. And we can understand why. It’s a good-looking crossover with a clean, unique design.
If you guessed that the Nevo Q05 is electric based on its closed-off front grille, you’re correct. It’s powered by a 51.9 kWh battery and an electric motor that produces 120 kW and 190 Nm of torque. The Q05 can hit 160 kph. The Nevo Q05’s range is claimed at 506 km.
Inside, it retains the minimalist design aesthetic, making use of a large 15.6-inch infotainment screen and a 10.17-inch digital instrument cluster.
Uni-S HEV & CS75 Plus HEV
The Changan CS75 Plus HEV.
The Changan Uni-S and CS75 Pro have already launched in South Africa. Now Changan will add hybrid versions. Both the Uni-S HEV and the CS75 Plus HEV will use a self-charging battery system, producing 166 kW and 300 Nm in the former, and 180 kW/300 Nm for the latter.
Both models will see a substantial reduction in fuel consumption over their turbopetrol counterparts, with the CS75 Plus HEV’s claimed average figure pegged at just 3.5 L/100 km. What will that consumption figure look like in the real world? We’ll soon find out.
The Lumin’s possibly the most exciting product in this line-up… It’ll operate in the small-EV category that’s suddenly blossomed in SA. Considering the warm reception given to the BYD Dolphin Surf and Geely E2, we expect the Lumin to be welcomed with open arms (especially if it’s SA’s cheapest EV, something Changan is determined to achieve).
This cute city slicker is powered by a 31.1 kWh battery and has a top speed of 105 kph. After driving it briefly, we can report that it feels comfortable on the open road and its acceleration felt in line with a vehicle of its size. However, will South Africans baulk at that low top speed?
Changan Hunter K70 REEV
Read our International Launch Review of the Hunter K70 REEV for more details, but briefly, Changan‘s beefy bakkie will take on the likes of the Ford Ranger Raptor and BYD Shark 6. The K70 will make use of range-extender technology, which promises a driving range of more than 1 000 km. The K70 certainly has a menacing presence, and we feel our market will love that.
Changan says the number of new products it plans to launch in South Africa is proof of how committed it is to our market. The brand feels confident that local consumers will appreciate the quality, engineering and pricing of its products.
After sampling each new model ourselves, we have no reason to counter their claims. The brand is also set on ensuring consumers receive the aftersales care they deserve, which is why the dealer network will expand to 40 retailers by the end of 2026…
5 automakers with the sharpest sales declines in H1 2026
These are the 5 automakers that suffered the sharpest year-on-year sales declines in South Africa’s growing new-vehicle market in H1 2026…
9 automakers logged declines in H1 2026
4 endured double-digit percentage drops
Proton suffered biggest percentage decline
We’ve already identified the automakers that posted the strongest sales growth in South Africa in the opening half of 2026, outpacing the local market’s 12.9% year-on-year improvement to 315 303 units. But what about the automakers that suffered the sharpest sales declines in H1 2026?
Well, we’ve worked through Mzansi’s new-vehicle sales figures for the first 6 months of 2026 and compared them directly to H1 2025’s numbers. That allowed us to identify the 5 manufacturers that effectively shrunk the most in what was a growing local automotive market.
Note that we’ve focused on automakers that operate in the light-vehicle segments, omitting low-volume truck- and bus-only manufacturers from this exercise. In addition, we’ve based our calculations on “manufacturer” totals, as reported to industry-representative body Naamsa (keep in mind certain individual brands are grouped under broader manufacturer banners).
Of the 34 automakers included in this exercise, as many as 9 endured year-on-year sales declines. For the record, Mazda (down 4.3% to 1 284 units), Mercedes-Benz (down 2.0% to a Naamsa-estimated 3 103 units), Renault (down 1.8% to 8 028 units) and Mitsubishi (down 1.7% to 1 004 units) all shed sales, year on year. But 5 other automakers suffered far more significant declines…
Proton (42 units) – down 87.2%
Considering Proton is effectively in limbo in South Africa – with local distributor the CMH Group having effectively dropped it and Geely Auto SA weighing up whether to step in – it’s perhaps no surprise the Malaysian brand recorded the market’s most significant sales decline in H1 2026. With the CMH Group looking to offload its remaining Proton new-vehicle stock, local registrations slid 87.2% to just 42 units during this 6-month reporting period.
Nissan (6 267 units) – down 20.1%
Making do with a local portfolio trimmed back to just 3 models (until the new Tekton arrives, anyway), Nissan endured a 20.1% year-on-year decrease in sales to end H1 2026 on 6 267 units, falling from 12th to 15th position in the process. Magnite registrations in the passenger-car segment dipped 15.4% year on year to 3 634 units, while Navara sales slid 25.3% to 1 965 units (with the low-volume X-Trail making up the balance). Nissan also sold its Rosslyn manufacturing facility to the Chery Group, meaning the Navara will now be imported from Thailand rather than locally built.
BAIC (1 157 units) – down 15.4%
Not all Chinese brands are growing, it would seem. In H1 2026, local registrations of BAIC vehicles declined 15.4% year on year to 1 157 units, seeing the automaker slip from 19th to 26th position. While the B30 (launched late in 2025) added a useful 615 units to the brand’s overall tally, sales of the X55 Plus plummeted 47.9% year on year to 528 units (while the non-Plus version fell away completely). The B40 Plus could muster just 14 units (down 65.9%, year on year).
Jaguar Land Rover (1 363 units) – down 12.1%
While you might assume the British automaker’s presence on this list is largely thanks to the fact Jaguar is currently not building any new vehicles at all, it’s interesting to note just 28 new Jaguar units were registered in H1 2025 (a figure that, of course, fell to zero in H1 2026). The Defender remained the firm’s most popular model locally, though sales dipped 2.3% year on year to 795 units. All other Land Rover and Range Rover models suffered more significant year-on-year declines.
Subaru (217 units) – down 8.4%
The only passenger-vehicle brands reporting to Naamsa that sold fewer new vehicles than Subaru in South Africa in H1 2026 were Proton and Scuderia (the latter being the company responsible for Ferrari in Mzansi). In the end, Subaru’s local registrations declined 8.4% year on year to 217 units, translating to a monthly average of just 36 cars. Sales of the Forester fell some 14.8% compared to H1 2025, ending the 6-month reporting period on 138 units.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which automaker suffered the sharpest sales decline in South Africa during the first half of 2026?
A: Proton suffered the most severe decline in the local market, with sales plummeting 87.2% year on year to just 42 units for H1 2026. This dramatic drop comes as Proton is left in limbo following local distributor CMH Group moving away from the brand, leaving Geely Auto SA to weigh a potential takeover while remaining stock is cleared.
Q: Why did Nissan experience a significant 20.1% drop in its H1 2026 sales volume?
A: Sales of its volume-driving Magnite dipped 15.4% (to 3 634 units) and Navara bakkie registrations slid 25.3% (to 1 965 units). Furthermore, Nissan sold its Rosslyn manufacturing facility to the Chery Group, shifting Navara sourcing from local production to imports from Thailand.
Q: How did other brands like BAIC, Jaguar Land Rover and Subaru perform on list?
A: BAIC dropped 15.4% to 1 157 units, driven by a 47.9% crash in X55 Plus sales, proving that not all Chinese brands are finding success. Jaguar Land Rover dipped 12.1% to 1 363 units, as Jaguar registrations fell to zero and Land Rover/Range Rover models saw declines despite a steady showing from the Defender (795 units). Subaru rounded out the bottom five with an 8.4% decline to 217 units, averaging just 36 vehicle sales per month.
5 most affordable traditional hybrids in SA (2026)
Considering an electrified vehicle but keen to keep the purchase cost in check? Here are South Africa’s 5 most affordable traditional hybrids right now…
In 2025, the bulk of sales in South Africa’s new-energy vehicle (NEV) segment came courtesy of traditional hybrids, which far outsold both fully electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). So, which are the most affordable traditional hybrids (or HEVs) on the market right now?
Well, we’ve sorted through Mzansi’s new-vehicle market to pick out the 5 HEVs with the lowest starting prices – each (bar one) priced below R500 000. Keep in mind we’ve excluded mild-hybrid offerings from this exercise, instead focusing exclusively on traditional hybrids. Note that pricing below is correct in July 2026.
1. GWM Ora 5 1.5T HEV Super Luxury – R424 900
The HEV version of GWM’s freshly launched Ora 5 line-up debuts as South Africa’s most affordable traditional hybrid – booting its sibling, the Haval Jolion Pro 1.5 HEV Ultra Luxury (R521 450) clear out of the top 5. The Ora 5 HEV features a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, an electric motor and a 1.1 kWh battery pack. The Chinese brand says this powertrain’s total system outputs stand at 164 kW and 476 Nm, while the listed combined consumption is 4.5 L/100 km.
Total range (claimed): 1 222 km
Vehicle warranty: 7-year/200 000 km
Battery warranty: 8-year/150 000 km
Service plan: 7-year/75 000 km
2. Chery Tiggo Cross 1.5 CSH Comfort – R439 900
Launched in mid-2025, the Comfort grade of Chery’s Tiggo Cross CSH is now SA’s 2nd most affordable traditional hybrid. It’s powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (generating 71 kW and 118 Nm) along with an electric motor that draws from a 1.83 kWh battery pack. According to Chery, this powertrain has total system outputs of 150 kW and 310 Nm, and a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.4 L/100 km.
Total range (claimed): 1 000 km
Vehicle warranty: 7-year/150 000 km
Battery warranty: 10-year/unlimited km
Service plan: 5-year/60 000 km
3. MG3 1.5 Hybrid+ Luxury – R469 900
This dual-powered derivative tops the MG3 range and holds the title of SA’s most affordable hybrid hatchback. It combines a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with a hybrid system comprising an electric motor, a 1.83 kWh battery pack and a 3-speed hybrid transmission. The listed fuel consumption is 4.3 L/100 km. While the combustion engine develops 75 kW and 128 Nm, total system outputs stand at 155 kW and 425 Nm.
Total range (claimed): 837 km
Vehicle warranty: 7-year/200 000 km
Battery warranty: seemingly included in vehicle warranty
Service plan: 3-year/45 000 km
4. Omoda C5 1.5T SHS HEV – R479 900
Having launched in South Africa as recently as April 2026, Omoda’s C5 SHS HEV effectively slots into 4th place on the list of SA’s most affordable traditional hybrids (though, thanks to its temporary launch price of R469 900, tied the MG3 for its first month on the market). This SHS-badged model pairs a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and a 1.83 kWh battery, delivering combined outputs of 165 kW and 295 Nmto the front wheels. The listed fuel consumption comes in at 4.9 L/100 km.
Total range (claimed): 1 000+ km
Vehicle warranty: 5-year/150 000 km
Battery warranty: 10-year/unlimited km
Service plan: 5-year/75 000 km
5. Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV XS – R506 100
The only SA-built model here, the XS version of Toyota’s Corolla Cross HEV was once the most affordable traditional hybrid on the local market but has since been usurped by the 4 Chinese-made models above. The Prospecton-produced crossover uses a 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (with a continuously variable transmission), a 1.31 kWh battery pack and an electric motor to produce total system power of 90 kW. Toyota doesn’t quote a combined torque figure, but the petrol mill makes 142 Nm and the electric motor some 163 Nm. The Japanese firm claims a fuel consumption of 4.3 L/100 km.
Total range (claimed): 837 km
Vehicle warranty: 3-year/100 000 km
Battery warranty: 8-year/195 000 km
Service plan: 6-service/90 000 km
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the top three most affordable traditional hybrid vehicles (HEVs) available in South Africa?
A: The newly launched GWM Ora 5 1.5T HEV Super Luxury leads the market as SA’s most affordable traditional hybrid, priced at R424 900. It is followed closely by the Chery Tiggo Cross 1.5 CSH Comfort at R439 900. Locking in the third spot is the premium MG3 1.5 Hybrid+ Luxury hatchback, which comes in at R469 900.
Q: How do the powertrain outputs and fuel efficiency compare among the most budget-friendly hybrids?
A: Power and consumption vary across the top contenders. The GWM Ora 5 leads in performance with a combined 164 kW and 476 Nm, sipping just 4.5 L/100 km. The Omoda C5 1.5T SHS HEV follows with 165 kW and 295 Nm (4.9 L/100 km). The MG3 hatchback offers 155 kW and 425 Nm at a frugal 4.3 L/100 km, while the Chery Tiggo Cross delivers 150 kW and 310 Nm (5.4 L/100 km). The locally built Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV XS develops a combined 90 kW while matching the MG3’s highly efficient 4.3 L/100 km consumption.
Q: What kind of driving range and warranty coverage can buyers expect from these affordable hybrids?
A: These models offer expansive long-distance ranges and excellent aftersales peace of mind. The GWM Ora 5 claims the longest potential driving range at 1 222 km per tank, backed by a 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty. Both the Chery Tiggo Cross and Omoda C5 claim over 1 000 km of range and feature an extensive 10-year/unlimited km battery warranty. The MG3 and Toyota Corolla Cross both feature a claimed range of 837 km, with Toyota providing an 8-year/195 000 km warranty specifically for its hybrid battery pack.
BYD and Absa expand partnership to boost EV adoption in SA
The shift towards new energy vehicles in South Africa is gathering momentum. In a move to make electric and hybrid vehicles more accessible to local buyers, BYD South Africa and Absa have announced a significant new finance deal.
Operating under the BYD Finance banner, a dedicated product of Absa, this collaboration builds on an initial agreement first established in 2025. The goal? To lower the barriers to entry for South African motorists looking to make the switch to green mobility by introducing more flexible and competitive vehicle finance, insurance, and dealership solutions.
Massive growth in SA’s EV market
The BYD Dolphin Surf has proved popular since going in sale late in 2025.
If you’ve noticed quieter, differently designed cars on South African roads lately, it’s quite likely you’ve noticed some of that new energy vehicle (NEV) growth that’s happening locally. According to recent data released by Absa, NEV sales in South Africa increased by 78.8% between January and May 2026 compared to the same period last year. Admittedly, this is off a low base, but the trend is up.
The growth is being driven heavily across two main alternative-energy segments:
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV): Sales surged by 681%.
Battery electric vehicles (BEV): Sales grew by a healthy 193%.
Amidst this growth, BYD wants to establish itself as a heavyweight in the local market. The Chinese automotive giant currently ranks as South Africa’s second-best-selling NEV brand, with 2 011 units sold year-to-date. Models like the Sealion 6, the affordable Dolphin Surf and the high-performance Shark 6 bakkie have quickly caught the attention of local buyers looking for premium tech without the luxury price tag.
What does BYD Finance mean for buyers?
Steve Chang, MD of BYD South Africa.
For the average consumer, the expanded relationship between BYD and Absa is excellent news. Buying an EV or hybrid can still carry an upfront price premium, but BYD Finance aims to address affordability and flexibility directly.
The partnership covers three critical pillars:
Tailored vehicle finance: Structured finance options designed specifically for retail customers and corporate fleets looking to buy BYD vehicles.
Dealer wholesale finance: Crucial floorplan funding to support BYD’s rapidly growing dealership network, ensuring better stock availability and faster delivery times across the country.
Comprehensive insurance solutions: Bespoke insurance packages tailored to the unique requirements of high-tech electric vehicles and battery systems.
Key industry members, including Cars.co.za’s MD Amasi Mwela speaking on future mobility
“For BYD, this is about more than bringing world-leading vehicles to market. It is about building the ecosystem that helps more South Africans access them,” said Steve Chang, Managing Director of BYD Auto South Africa. “Extending our cooperation with Absa allows us to support customers, dealers and businesses with the finance solutions needed to make new energy mobility more accessible and scalable.”
80 dealerships nationwide by end of 2026
BYD currently boasts a network of 52 dealerships across South Africa. However, to keep pace with consumer demand and its intended growth, the brand has confirmed an aggressive expansion plan to reach 80 dealerships nationwide by the end of 2026.
This footprint expansion means that sales, servicing, and specialised EV maintenance will become more convenient for buyers outside the major metropolitan hubs, reducing infrastructure anxiety for those who don’t live in the major cities.
Beyond South Africa: A pan-African vision
BYD has plans to expand beyond local borders.
The partnership is also going beyond the South African border. With Absa boasting a banking platform across 14 African countries, both companies are actively exploring ways to take the BYD Finance model into broader African markets. As BYD expands its footprint across the continent, Absa’s regional infrastructure will serve as the financial backbone for its growth.
Charl Potgieter, Managing Executive for Absa Vehicle and Asset Finance, noted that consumer attitudes are shifting quickly: “While affordability and infrastructure are still important factors, there is growing acceptance of electric mobility, and extending our cooperation with BYD allows us to continue supporting customers as the market develops.”
With more models entering the market and a rapidly expanding dealer and financing network, the transition to alternative-energy vehicles in SA is officially moving out of the niche early-adopter phase and into the mainstream.
The Chery KP31 bakkie – here’s what we know so far
The BYD Shark 6 has changed the way South Africans see Chinese bakkies. The Chery KP31 bakkie could be an even bigger deal.
South Africa’s lifestyle and luxury double-cab market is lucrative, and the Chinese brands have cottoned on. However, while the BYD Shark 6 has spearheaded the movement for truly desirable Chinese bakkies, it’s not without its flaws.
For one, it has poor payload and towing capacities. It also struggles with limited off-road ability due to a lack of low-range gearing. Traditional double cabs like the Ranger and Hilux might be less luxurious overall, but they’re still comfortable and they offer proper payloads and towing ability.
This raises the question: Is there a Chinese bakkie with all the power, rugged off-road ability and a typically OTT luxury cabin? Enter the Chery KP31…
Now that Australia has officially named it – the “Stockman” – more detail has been forthcoming. At the recent Chery South Africa factory handover event in Rosslyn, there was a heavy-duty KP31 on display. This gave us a better idea of its technical specifications and potential for South African double-cab bakkie buyers.
Mercedes-AMG V12 torque levels…
That shifter is going to command a huge torque output. Or is it?
Chery has developed two powertrain options for the KP31 bakkie. Both are PHEVs and the total system outputs shame anything Ford or Toyota offers.
The KP31 petrol PHEV has a total system output of 395 kW and 1 000 Nm. That torque number is right at the limit of passenger-vehicle transmission engineering. AMG’s legendary V12 bi-turbo models were torque-limited to 1 000 Nm to preserve their automatic transmissions’ lifespan.
So, what of the KP31 petrol PHEV’s transmission? Well, Chinese drivetrain engineers have been working on very powerful EVs with huge torque outputs for years. There should therefore be no concerns about drivetrain issues.
That said, will the KP31 really offer 1 000 Nm at all times, or will this output be restricted to preserve the battery pack? We’ll get to that…
Can a diesel PHEV work?
The South African bakkie market is all about diesel powertrains. Nearly all locally sold double cabs are powered by diesel engines. That’s why Chery was under pressure to develop a turbodiesel powertrain for the bakkie.
There is no question about the Chery KP31 diesel PHEV’s stats. This version is rated at 350 kW and 800 Nm. For a double cab bakkie, those are tremendous powertrain numbers.
In the market for hardcore diesel bakkies, it absolutely outclasses legacy bakkies like the Land Cruiser 70 2.8 GD-6 (only 450 Nm) and the Ranger V6 turbodiesel (600 Nm). But the question is: how sustainable is the Chery turbodiesel PHEV’s continuous peak torque output?
With a hybrid setup, total system output can be sustained only for short durations. And if you need all of that 800 Nm, towing a trailer up one of South Africa’s steep mountain passes, there might be less peak torque available than you anticipate.
Will heat energy from the huge powertrain battery help reduce DPF vulnerability for this bakkie?
Since diesel particulate filters (DPF) became a standardised emissions-control component on South African bakkies, the questions of start-stop systems, fuel quality, and driving cycles have become much more important.
DPFs need to heat up to initiate the chemical reaction that burns off the diesel particulate matter and carbon they collect. Achieving the required heat cycle usually means a decent amount of highway-speed driving at constant throttle loading.
In heavy traffic, DPFs can struggle to maintain operating temperature. That increases the risk of the DPF clogging, leading to unhappy consequences for the engine. Start-stop systems on diesel engines create much the same issue as severe traffic, limiting the thermal build-up a diesel engine needs for its DPF to function properly.
Chery’s diesel PHEV, with a start-stop system where the diesel engine competes with the electric drive for much of its operating range, seems like a DPF maintenance problem waiting to happen. But Chery could have a great solution…
That massive 34 kWh battery pack that powers the Chery double cab at low speed has ample power in reserve to preheat the DPF. This means the DPF can be kept at its required operating temperature when needed, even if the diesel engine is frequently cycling on/off during an urban driving cycle.
Proper bakkie suspension
Coil-sprung, independent rear suspension is one of the Shark’s weaknesses in harsh terrain.
Leaf springs or coils? That’s a technical question that divides many South African bakkie buyers.
Coils have less friction and allow for better high-frequency bump absorption across deep corrugations on a Karoo dirt road. That’s why bakkies with renowned dirt-road driving stability, like the Nissan Navara and Ranger Raptor, have coil-sprung rear axles. But coil springs can sag alarmingly under full load-bed payload, or when hitched up to a big trailer or caravan.
The BYD Shark has a coil-sprung rear suspension, which is a potential issue for some South African double cab buyers with demanding load requirements. Chery’s taken note of those preferences. The KP31 has rear-axle coil suspension on the petrol PHEV (which is a more urban lifestyle bakkie), while the diesel PHEV gets a rugged leaf-sprung rear axle.
The KP31 had lots of hardcore 4×4 upgrades on display in Rosslyn.
Traction control and automatic transmissions have remarkably reduced the intimidation factor of off-road driving. But for really technical off-road trails, nothing beats a true axle locker.
The issue is that even the best traction control systems are reactive. They need a moment of wheel slippage to engage the brake and redirect torque to the opposing wheel, which has better purchase on available traction.
It’s that moment of hesitation between the system recognising wheel slippage and responding that can get you stuck. That’s why double cab bakkies with real off-roading ambitions have a proper locking axle at the rear. The most capable ones (Ranger Raptor/Super Duty and Land Cruiser 70), feature lockers on both front and rear axles.
Chery’s engineers know what they are doing – the KP31 has an advanced traction control system, as well as true axle lockers front and rear.
Like most advanced Chinese automakers, BYD’s South African sales are surging. But the Shark 6 has real all-terrain driving and load limitations. Chery reckons it has the answer in the form of the KP31 … time will tell whether discerning South African bakkie buyers agree.
