Mazda CX-60 3.3D AWD (2026) Review

The Mazda CX-60 3.3D AWD received a subtle update in 2025, addressing concerns around the stiff ride quality. With that sorted, we ponder whether this is a great alternative to the desirable yet pricey Germans.

We like: Mega diesel engine in terms of performance and efficiency; CX-60 has always offered a hands-on engaging drive, but the ride is now improved; cabin quality.

We don’t like: The Mazda badge isn’t quite premium enough for R1.1m; ride still errs on the firmer side, less second-row legroom than you might expect.

FAST FACTS

  • Model: Mazda CX-60 3.3D AWD Takumi
  • Price: R1 101 400
  • Engine: 3.3-litre inline-six turbodiesel + 48V mild hybrid
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
  • Power/Torque: 187 kW/550 Nm
  • 0-100 kph: 7.3 seconds (claimed)/7.31 seconds (tested)
  • Fuel consumption: 4.9 L/100 km (claimed)/5.8 L/100 km (tested)
  • Range: 1 184 km (claimed)
  • Luggage capacity: 477-1 148-1 726 litres (claimed)

Serious about buying/selling?

Some dealerships regularly offer great deals. See our New Car Specials!

Looking to sell your car? Sell it on Cars.co.za for free

Where does the Mazda CX-60 fit in?

The premium, mid-size SUV market in South Africa has long been dominated by traditional German heavyweights. As consumer dynamics shift and local buyers increasingly weigh value against brand prestige, Mazda has taken a refreshingly bold engineering approach with its flagship CX-60. Instead of following the downsizing trend, the Japanese manufacturer introduced a large-capacity turbodiesel engine to its family SUV.

Addressing criticism of the vehicle’s initial ride calibration, Mazda rolled out a comprehensive update for the CX-60 in 2025. The suspension revisions focused heavily on reworking the damping rates and rear shock absorbers to smooth out the firm, jittery ride quality that plagued early models over sharp tarmac imperfections. Alongside a recalibrated steering knuckle for improved high-speed stability and a quieter overall drive, do these rolling updates ensure the refreshed model delivers the composure and ride refinement expected from a modern luxury SUV? We spent some quality time behind the wheel of the top-tier derivative to find out.

Read our original review here: Mazda CX-60 Takumi (2024) Review

How the Mazda CX-60 3.3D AWD fares in terms of…

Design & Packaging

Visually, the Mazda CX-60 adopts a clean, sophisticated design language that sits comfortably alongside its more premium European rivals. The long bonnet houses a substantial inline-six engine, giving the vehicle a classic rear-wheel-drive silhouette, complemented by elegant chrome accents, sharp LED lighting and striking alloy wheels on this high-spec Takumi derivative.

Inside, the cabin delivers a high standard of craftsmanship. Soft-touch materials, intricate stitching and interesting textures create a luxurious ambience. Rather than following the industry trend of burying all controls within a touchscreen, Mazda retains a driver-focused layout featuring a physical climate control panel and a rotary controller on the centre console to navigate the infotainment system safely while on the move.

Packaging is generous upfront, although rear legroom is slightly compromised by the longitudinal engine layout forcing the cabin rearwards. The luggage compartment offers a practical shape with useful split-folding rear seats and a standard electric tailgate.

See how the CX-60 compares to the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC using our handy spec tool

Performance & Efficiency

The headline act of this model is its 3.3-litre inline-six turbocharged diesel engine, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Called e-Skyactiv D, it delivers a robust 180 kW and 550 Nm of torque to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s a lovely engine: effortlessly muscular, and it even sounds good.

On the open road, the straight-six diesel is impressively refined, too, and it offers immense low-down torque for effortless overtaking.

Efficiency is equally noteworthy; thanks to advanced mild-hybrid assistance and coasting functionality, highway fuel consumption easily drops below 6.0 litres/100 km, making long-distance cruising exceptionally economical.

Ride, Handling & Comfort

Thanks to the chassis changes Mazda made last year, the CX-60 feels better balanced and more stable, and the all-wheel-drive system provides sure-footed traction across varied weather conditions.

Cabin insulation is improved, too, effectively suppressing wind, tyre, and mechanical noise. While the suspension tuning still leans toward a firm, athletic setup to manage body control through corners, it’s undoubtedly more composed.

Price & After-sales support

Mazda SA likes to keep it simple: the warranty, service plan and roadside assistance are all valid for 5 years/unlimited km.

Mazda CX-60 2.5 DynamicR790 200
Mazda CX-60 2.5 AWD IndividualR902 000
Mazda CX-60 3.3D AWD TakumiR1 101 400
All pricing correct in October 2026.

Verdict

The Mazda CX-60 Takumi diesel offers a compelling alternative in the premium SUV landscape. By pairing a smooth, powerful inline-six diesel engine with high-end cabin appointments and aggressive pricing relative to its German rivals, it presents an appealing luxury proposition for discerning motorists. What’s more, the changes Mazda wrought last year have made the CX-60 a more rounded and refined offering.

However, we do wonder whether a R1.1m Mazda will continue to attract those buyers enticed by a premium Audi, BMW or Mercedes-Benz badge, or even the prospect of spending less and opting for a well-specified Chinese alternative. The CX-60 certainly finds itself in a challenging space, as accomplished as it may be…

Red Friday on Cars.co.za: Best car deals all November

Move over, Black Friday: discover car specials and deals running all month long. New deals up every Red Friday.

Black Friday car deals usually come and go in a single day, which is a tough ask when you are buying something as significant as a vehicle. This November, Cars.co.za is doing things differently with Red Friday. Instead of limiting your search to a high-stress 24-hour window, we are featuring top car deals across South Africa for the entire month. Whether you are searching for special offers on family SUVs, fuel-efficient hatchbacks, or rugged double-cab bakkies, you will find discounted car specials throughout November, with extra visibility and highlighted Friday deals turned up every week.

An example of a Red Friday listing.

How Red Friday works

Red Friday is our unique take on Black Friday car deals, presented in our signature colours. Participating dealers across the country are highlighting their best-priced vehicles with a dedicated Red Friday tag. A listing qualifies for the tag when our automated pricing tools rate it as a Good Deal or Great Deal, or when the dealer has dropped the price by more than 5%. This ensures that, when you browse car specials during Red Friday, you are looking at vehicles priced competitively against the current market. Plus, with new inventory added daily, buyers can negotiate financing and trade-ins with confidence and peace of mind. New deals land every Red Friday.

Key dates

  • 6 November 
  • 13 November 
  • 20 November 
  • 27 November

Red Friday dates and how to shop

  • Browse the deals page: Visit the dedicated Red Friday section on Cars.co.za to view tagged car deals filtered by budget.
  • Look for the tag: The Red Friday tag appears on qualifying listings across the website throughout the month.
  • Save your favourites: Tap the heart icon on any vehicle listing to add it to your wish list, then check back every Friday for updates. Friday feeling, sorted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is Red Friday?

A: Red Friday is Cars.co.za’s month-long campaign throughout November, offering buyers access to top car deals and car specials with special tags and increased visibility every Friday.

Q: How do cars qualify for a Red Friday tag?

A: Vehicles qualify when rated as a Good Deal or Great Deal by our pricing tools, or when the selling dealer has reduced the price by more than 5%.

Q: When does Red Friday run?

A: Red Friday runs from 1 to 30 November 2026 on Cars.co.za. Key Friday feature days are 6, 13, 20, and 27 November.

Q: Can I trade in my vehicle during Red Friday?

A: Yes! Participating dealerships accept trade-ins, allowing you to use your current car’s value toward qualifying Red Friday deals for even greater savings.

New Haval H10 firming for South Africa

GWM has quietly registered the new Haval H10’s design in South Africa, leading us to believe this large unibody SUV could be on the cards for the local market…

  • Haval H10 design registered in Mzansi
  • Unibody SUV to slot in above new H7?
  • Larger than ladder-frame Tank 500
  • China-spec PHEV generates 440 kW

Will the new Haval H10 come to South Africa? Well, while GWM SA has yet to officially confirm this large unibody SUV for the local market, we’ve unearthed new information that suggests the H10 – which features in-vogue boxy exterior styling – may well be on the cards for Mzansi.

Yes, Cars.co.za can confirm that GWM’s Baoding head office in China applied to register the new H10’s exterior design with South Africa’s patent authorities on 24 March 2026, with an official registration being granted on 5 October 2026.

GWM has registered the Haval H10 design in Mzansi.

In August this year, Conrad Groenewald, Chief Operating Officer of GWM South Africa, told us the brand was planning as many as 14 product launches over the following 18 months. And we’d speculate there’s a strong chance the H10 will be among that group, slotting in at the summit of GWM’s local Haval line-up (above the new H7) and potentially doing battle with the imminent BYD Ti 7.

Revealed earlier this year, the Haval H10 is currently available in China in two forms: a 5-seater version measuring 5 138 mm long and a 6-seater (3-row) iteration stretching 5 299 mm from front to back (with a wheelbase of 3 000 mm in each case). That means even the 5-seater H10 is some 60 mm longer than the ladder-frame Tank 500.

In China, the H10 features a PHEV powertrain.

In its domestic market, the H10 is offered with GWM’s Hi4-branded plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain that in this case comprises a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine, a pair of electric motors (one on each axle), a 4-speed dedicated hybrid transmission and a 42.8 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack.

According to GWM, the H10’s plug-in arrangement boasts peak system figures as lofty as 440 kW and 722 Nm, translating to a claimed 0-100 kph sprint time of 4.9 seconds. With a listed all-electric range of 232 km (using the CLTC standard), the H10 PHEV’s total claimed range comes in at over 1 400 km.

Both 5- and 6-seater versions are available in China.

Despite the Haval H10 featuring a unibody configuration – rather than a more robust body-on-frame construction – GWM says 7 “all-terrain” driving modes are included, along with a dedicated crawl mode and an electronically controlled mechanical rear differential. The company lists a ground clearance of 220 mm, along with approach and departure angles of 24 and 30 degrees, respectively (the latter specifically for the 5-seater version).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the new Haval H10 coming to South Africa?

A: While GWM South Africa has not yet officially confirmed the Haval H10 for local release, Cars.co.za reports that the company applied to register the SUV’s exterior design in Mzansi in March 2026, with official patent approval granted in October 2026.

Q: What are the size specifications and seating layouts of the Haval H10?

A: Built on a 3 000 mm wheelbase, the unibody Haval H10 comes in 5-seater (5 138 mm long) and 6-seater 3-row (5 299 mm long) configurations, making even the 5-seater variant 60 mm longer than the ladder-frame Tank 500.

Q: What powertrain and performance specs does the Haval H10 feature?

A: In China, the H10 utilises GWM’s Hi4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain—combining a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with dual electric motors and a 42.8 kWh LFP battery — delivering a combined 440 kW and 722 Nm, a 0–100 km/h time of 4.9 seconds and over 1 400 km of total claimed range.

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Rio replacement? Kia SA boss hints at new hatchback

Kia South Africa’s CEO has hinted at the possibility of the introduction of a new hatchback that he describes as “very much like” the since-departed Rio…

  • Kia SA “could bring in” new hatchback
  • Rio hatch discontinued in SA in Q1 2024
  • New model might be sourced from China

The head of Kia South Africa has revealed to Cars.co.za there’s a possibility the brand’s local distributor will bring in a new hatchback – positioned above the diminutive Picanto – that he describes as being “very much like” the discontinued Rio.

As a reminder, the Rio was phased out in Mzansi back in early 2024, with this B-segment model’s successor not produced in right-hand-drive form. But fresh comments from Paul Turnbull, Chief Executive Officer of Kia South Africa, suggest a replacement of sorts may well be on the cards.

The B-segment Rio exited SA in 2024.

Considering the Pegas sedan is imported into South Africa from China, we asked Turnbull whether there was an opportunity for the Motus-distributed brand to source more models from the world’s 2nd-most populous nation.

“We’re getting very involved with Korea’s [Kia Corporation] head office – we actually had the vice-president in South Africa visiting,” Turnbull said during a wide-ranging interview in Cars.co.za’s custom-built podcast booth at Naamsa’s SA Auto Week 2026 event in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal earlier in October.

The Pegas is currently the only model Kia SA imports from China.

“So, we bring Pegas from China. Yes, it’s a big rental player and does well for us all the time. Out of China, they’ve got EV2, EV5 and EV6 that we possibly could look at. But the EV2 they haven’t specced [in] right-hand drive [yet] as it’s mostly left-hand drive at the moment.

“There’s a new hatch that they’re looking to offer to us, that we could bring in. So, like the Rio – not called the Rio – but very much like the Kia Rio was. So, we’re trying to get as much out of China and India – that’s where we seem to get the costings right or the FOB [Freight on Board] right. But we bring only the Pegas from China at the moment; that’s the only one currently,” he told us.

Overseas, the Rio nameplate has been replaced by the K3.

Since Turnbull didn’t name the hatchback, it’s entirely possible the “Rio-like” model in question has yet to be officially rolled out overseas. Still, it’s worth noting the BL7-series Kia K3 has effectively served as the Rio’s global replacement since late in 2023, with the 5-door hatch version measuring 4 295 mm from front to back (some 230 mm longer than the Rio).

However, that model is still seemingly produced exclusively in left-hand-drive form in Mexico and Uzbekistan, with the factory in the latter country building only the sedan version. Similarly, the K3 that is currently manufactured and sold in China comes in sedan form only.

The Mexico-built K3 hatch is some 230 mm longer than the Rio.

Meanwhile, the current-generation K4 – itself serving as a replacement for the C-segment Cerato that exited the local market back in 2018 – is already produced in right-hand-drive guise and is available in markets like Australia. However, that 5-door hatch is considerably larger and more upmarket than the Rio.

Interestingly, at its 2026 CEO Investor Day in April, the South Korean automaker announced plans to offer European markets a fully electric “B-segment hatchback”, a model that rumours suggest will wear the “EV1” badge.

Kia registered the “K3” trademark locally in 2023.

For the record, Kia registered the “EV1” and “K3” trademarks in South Africa in November 2022 and November 2023, respectively, while its application to protect the “K4” badge was accepted as recently as September 2026, with registration still pending. Meanwhile, the South Korean brand secured the Rio name way back in 2006, rights it still holds today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Kia introducing a replacement for the discontinued Rio hatchback in South Africa?

A: Kia South Africa CEO Paul Turnbull suggested to Cars.co.za that the brand could be evaluating a new B-segment hatchback that is “very much like” the discontinued Rio.

Q: Why was the Kia Rio discontinued in South Africa?

A: The Kia Rio was phased out of the South African market in early 2024 because its global replacement model was not manufactured in right-hand drive.

Q: Which Kia models are potential candidates for this new Rio-like hatchback?

A: Potential candidates include a right-hand-drive version of the new K3 hatchback or an unrevealed compact hatch designed for emerging markets, with Kia SA focusing on sourcing from China or India to maintain competitive pricing.

Related content

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GT40s, Grand Prix heroes and la dolce vita: Goodwood turns back the clock

Three GT40s rekindled one of motorsport’s most disputed finishes, but Ford’s famous triumph was only the opening act. From Brabham and Maserati milestones to swarms of Vespas, hard-fought racing and spirited auction bidding, the Goodwood Revival brought six decades of motoring history vividly back to life.

One of the most famous – indeed infamous – finishes in the history of motorsport was re-enacted at this year’s Goodwood Revival when the trio of 1966 Le Mans-winning Ford GT40s were re-united on track.

Assembled as a tribute to mark 60 years since the spectacular 1-2-3-win that broke Ferrari’s six-year victory run at the famous Circuit de la Sarthe in what was regarded as the ultimate snub to Enzo Ferrari, the cars took part in a daily parade at the annual three-day celebration of motor racing over the third weekend in September.

The Le Mans-winning trio of Ford GT40s.

The 1966 win was controversial after Ford’s decision to choreograph the 1-2-3-finish saw race leader Ken Miles (who had slowed down at Ford’s insistence) and co-driver Denny Hulme relegated to second place as their GT40 had technically started ahead of race winners Chris Amon and Bruce McLaren (who they crossed the line with for a planned ‘tie’), so covering less distance (by 20 feet!) during the 24-hour fixture.

The GT40s’ appearance marked the first time all three cars were again together on a track since that fateful race that inspired the 2019 film Ford v Ferrari. Fittingly, the sports car racers were piloted by various Le Mans winners at Goodwood Motor Circuit in Chichester, including Derek Bell, Tom Kristensen and Emanuele Pirro.

Brabham and Maserati take a bow at the Goodwood Revival

Track display of 35 racing cars from Sir Jack Brabham’s career.

And the famous Ford triumph wasn’t the only 60th anniversary to be celebrated: Goodwood marked six decades of Aussie racer Sir Jack Brabham’s third F1 World Championship with a track display of 35 cars from his racing career. The win saw Brabham become the only driver ever to take the coveted title in a car bearing his name and the Brabham-Repco BT20 he drove late in the ’66 season was one of the cars to take part, along with a 1962 Brabham-Ford BT2 which was bought new and raced by South African hotshoe Bob Olthoff.

The anniversaries continued with a line-up of magnificent Maserati sports cars and single seaters to honour the centenary of the famous Trident badge’s entry into motorsport and its first major international win when Alfieri Maserati won his class in a Tipo 26 in the 1926 Targa Florio. Two later examples were part of the 30-strong Celebrazione Maserati daily parade that also included other Maserati icons, including a trio of Maserati 250Fs and several A6GCS sports racers.

Two wheels, seven riders and la dolce vita

Three-hundred Vespas marked 80 years since the launch of the famous scooter brand.

But that wasn’t the only Italian take on the weekend: Goodwood also opened the circuit each morning with a track parade of around 300 pre-1967 Vespas to mark 80 years since the launch of the famous scooter which went on to give millions of Italians enormous freedom in Italy’s post-war years after it was launched by Piaggio back in 1946. A highlight of the celebration were the Vespa Acrobats who thrilled the crowd with a performance involving seven riders on one scooter!

A display team perform during the Vespa track opening parade on day one of Goodwood Revival.

Adding to the atmosphere was La Dolce Vita, a celebration of Italian life that featured actors in the role of typical street scene characters, including fresh produce saleswomen, a mob boss and members of the polizia!

Yesterday’s icons meet tomorrow’s cars

Alpine Berlinette.

Of course, the static displays also involved cars old and new, with the ever popular Earls Court Motor Show. Visitors could see ‘cars of the future’ alongside models from the past. A standout for this year was the central display of Alpine vehicles which charted the French sports car maker’s history from a classic ex-works 1971 Berlinette rally car to the chic A290 Lacoste Rallye and A390 Array, finished by Trevor Jackson as an ‘art car’.

The Alpine A390 ‘art car’.

BMW also put on an impressive step-back-in-time display of original Neue Klasse saloons set against a backdrop of design sketches and ideas. It was fronted with the famous Bavarian carmaker’s latest i3 model, the second in its latest Neue Klasse product offering.

BMW 1500, part of the Neue Klasse display.

Not to be outdone was JLR. It fielded its impressive (think 460 kW and 750 Nm) 4.4-litre, twin-turbo Defender Dakar, a road-legal evolution of the mighty Dakar Rally-class winning D7X-R. It was parked up alongside one of two surviving Series 1 Land Rovers that took part in the Oxford & Cambridge trans-Africa expedition in 1954.

Cortinas, Cobras and an E-type showdown

But, as ever, Goodwood also had plenty of action out on the track with a 15-strong race schedule that honoured the circuit’s heyday from 1948 to ’66 during which it hosted multiple sports car, saloon as well as Grands Prix.

Jenson Button.

First up was part one of the St Mary’s Trophy on the Friday. This event delivered an epic battle between Frank Stippler in an Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA and F1 champion Jenson Button in a Ford-Lotus Cortina Mk1 on the opening lap. After Button was forced off the tarmac, Romain Dumas’ mighty Ford Galaxie took the lead and would go on to take the laurels as overall winner after the second part of the race on the Sunday.

Young racers compete in the Settrington Cup on day three of Goodwood Revival.

The saloon antics were followed by the The Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy featuring a grid of Jaguar E-types, Aston Martin DB4 GTs and Ferrari 250 SWBs, while the Lavant Cup was back on the schedule to relive the epic duels of 1950s Ferrari and Maserati sports car races.

But it was the Revival’s Blue Riband race – the popular Royal Automobile Club (RAC) TT Celebration – that provided the most thrills late on the Sunday when the ‘heavy metal’ took to the grid. And it turned out to be a Jaguar fest, with Button behind the wheel of his own E-type and facing off another fellow World Champion, Jacques Villeneuve, also piloting an E-type. The two-driver contest was ultimately won by André Lotterer and Lukas Halusa in a Low Drag E-type, the pair beating off pole sitters Tom Ingram and Jack Tetley in a Shelby Cobra, despite a three-second penalty for a false start.

Under the hammer: Big prices, little cars

Off the track, there was plenty of competition at the Bonhams auction that fielded some stellar results, including R7.7 million for a 1936 Aston Martin 2-Litre Speed Model Competition two-seater that entered the 1948 Spa 24 Hours and was once owned by Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason in the late 1970s.

A general view of racing on day two of Goodwood Revival

Also commanding serious hammer action – but considerably more modern – was a 2000 Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM (the first chassis, built as a test car). It made R5.5 million despite having limited racing pedigree.

Also impressive – for a regular road car– was the R6.9 million paid for a 1973 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS, while a rare 1976 Suzuki Fronte Coupé and even rarer 1965 Toyota Publica 700 DX Saloon made R177 100 and R106 200, respectively. The little air-cooled Japanese runabouts were part of a micro car collection and proof that, despite its period setting, the Goodwood Revival continues to be a broad church for petrolheads.

WORDS: Graeme Hurst
PHOTOS: Graeme Hurst & Goodwood.com

Which Haval H7 is the best version to buy in 2026?

The Haval H7 has been reshaped to take aim directly at Jetour’s T2. But which variant in the expanded Haval H7 line-up is the right fit for your daily driving needs?

The rapid frequency of new-vehicle launches is great for buyers and anyone curious about Chinese brands. It is less ideal for early adopters, however, as accelerated model replacements can impact short-term residual values.

Driven by strong consumer demand for boxy, adventure-styled crossover SUVs, Haval introduced a completely redesigned version of the H7 – based globally on the Haval Raptor platform – shortly after the moniker’s local presence took shape. What are the major changes beneath the skin, and which trim level represents the sweet spot in the new line-up?

Why the Haval H7 underwent a rapid redesign

Lots of protective lower body cladding to shield the exterior from those dirt-road stone chips.

Some of the most daring vehicle designs of the 21st century are currently emerging from China. Unconstrained by legacy styling cues or decades of heritage aesthetics, Chinese design studios are operating with immense freedom. However, not every initial design hits the mark with buyers.

Beneath the original model’s unconventional front-end sat a compelling crossover engineering concept: a unibody platform featuring a selectable locking rear differential. That feature remains exceptionally rare on crossover SUVs lacking a traditional low-range transfer case, offering genuine utility when traversing loose sand, mud or unpaved tracks on weekend getaways.

Despite that mechanical hardware, the previous design struggled to gain momentum in the local market. Where a traditional legacy manufacturer might take five to seven years to execute a mid-cycle facelift or full platform update, Chinese automakers operate on drastically compressed product cycles. If a design fails to trigger strong market demand, the factory retools and delivers a fresh look to showroom floors in record time.

Search for a Haval H7 on Cars.co.za

Boxy aesthetics vs aerodynamic efficiency

Haval H7 side view with protective body cladding
Two-box design is timeless but it creates a lot of aerodynamic drag.

The redesigned Haval H7 aligns with current market demand for two-box, raised station wagon proportions. In the mid-size crossover segment, presence and rugged aesthetics often weigh heavily on buying decisions.

However, adopting an upright, square-jawed shape brings tangible engineering trade-offs. A classic boxy silhouette increases aerodynamic drag and wind noise at speed, which can impact fuel economy during long-distance highway cruising.

The paradox of this trend is that it moves away from China’s recent breakthroughs in aerodynamic efficiency. Driven by battery-electric vehicle (BEV) development – where low drag coefficients directly extend driving range – Chinese design teams have produced some of the sleekest vehicles on the market. With models like the H7, visual presence takes precedence over wind-tunnel optimisation.

Rapid redesigns – runaway depreciation?

Rapid model-cycle redesigns can erode residual values. Haval launched the H7 in South Africa in January 2025 but it’s already been replaced.

Haval introduced the original H7 to South Africa a little later than in other global markets. An unfortunate outcome is that the H7’s local marketing cycle was overwhelmed by the sheer speed of Chinese product development and updates.

With a legacy Japanese or German car, you are looking at a five-to-seven-year model cycle before a complete exterior redesign. The Chinese work much faster, which can create unexpectedly accelerated depreciation. Although the value proposition is strong with such low upfront purchase costs, it offers a very different perspective on depreciation and total cost of ownership than most legacy brands.

Search for a Haval H7 on Cars.co.za

Tailgate spare: A practical win for SA roads

Haval H7 rear view tailgate spare wheel
Full-size spare wheel across the range, even on the PHEVs…

While the new exterior styling embraces current design trends, it brings one major practical advantage for South African drivers: a tailgate-mounted, full-sized spare wheel.

One recurring drawback among many imported crossovers – from compact city EVs to larger luxury SUVs – is the reliance on space-saver spares or repair kits. For local buyers, a full-size spare is a critical feature. Most crossovers ride on road-biased tyres with sidewalls susceptible to damage on sharp gravel or rutted backroads.

Mounting a full-size spare on the rear tailgate preserves underfloor cargo space while giving drivers added confidence when heading off the tarmac or navigating potholed secondary roads.

Engine and drivetrain line-up: Finding the sweet spot

The H7 features a proper, selectable rear differential lock. That’s unusual on a crossover SUV.

Most urban crossover buyers prioritise cabin tech, comfort and road presence over extreme off-road capability. With rising fuel costs, picking the correct engine and drivetrain combination plays a key role in long-term satisfaction.

1. Haval H7 2.0T Petrol (9DCT)

The entry point to the range uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 170 kW and 380 Nm, mated to a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission (9DCT). While available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations (with the 4×4 featuring an electronically controlled rear differential lock), dual-clutch gearboxes require careful consideration if you plan to do frequent low-speed off-roading. Slipping clutches during low-speed crawling in heavy sand or steep inclines can generate excessive heat and wear over time.

2. Haval H7 1.5T HEV Super Luxury (4×2 DHT)

For buyers focused on daily urban commuting, the front-wheel-drive HEV derivative offers a strong balance of performance and efficiency. Combining a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine with a self-charging hybrid system and a 1.53 kWh battery, it delivers a healthy combined output of 182 kW and 540 Nm. Transmitting power via a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), it provides smooth, responsive acceleration and reduced fuel consumption in heavy stop-start traffic where traditional petrol engines are at their least efficient.

3. Haval H7 1.5T PHEV Ultra Luxury Hi4 (4×4 DHT)

At the top of the range sits the 4×4 PHEV flagship. Utilising a larger 23.7 kWh battery pack alongside an electric rear-axle motor, the Hi4 system generates a combined 320 kW and 670 Nm. Beyond offering pure-electric urban driving capability, the electric-drive rear setup and Dedicated Hybrid Transmission bypass the thermal stress of a dual-clutch gearbox during low-speed off-road manoeuvres. The electric motors handle immediate low-speed torque delivery, making it the most capable and refined option for light sand or muddy tracks.

Search for a Haval H7 on Cars.co.za

There’s no all-terrain tyre option for now. Which is a pity, but you do get fender protection.

The verdict

If your daily routing consists primarily of city commuting and highway driving, the H7 1.5T HEV 4×2 delivers the best overall balance of output, daily efficiency and purchase value.

However, if your lifestyle frequently involves unpaved adventure routes, sand tracks, or towing – and you want the added security of electric-assisted all-wheel drive without dual-clutch wear – stepping up to the PHEV 4×4 Hi4 represents the ultimate technical execution of the new H7 platform.

Hyundai Venue (2026) Price & Specs

Scoop! We have pricing for the new Hyundai Venue – including the flagship N Line derivative – ahead of this small crossover’s official launch in South Africa…

  • New Venue to hit South Africa soon
  • Local range to comprise 3 variants
  • Pricing is set to start at R319 900
  • 1.2 NA and 1.0T petrol powerplants
  • N Line variant boasts sporty styling

The new Hyundai Venue – featuring the South Korean firm’s latest design language, ostensibly along with extra interior space compared to the original – is set to launch in South Africa soon, but Cars.co.za has managed to unearth local pricing a little early.

Yes, we can confirm that the 2nd-generation Venue line-up in Mzansi will comprise a trio of derivatives at launch, with this Indian-built crossover again slotting in between the more compact Exter and the larger Creta.

Hyundai Venue
The new Venue without the N Line adornments.

According to our information, the new portfolio will kick off with the Venue 1.2 Premium 5MT, priced from R319 900. Hyundai has carried over the entry-level 1.2-litre petrol engine from the original range, with this 61 kW/115 Nm 4-cylinder motor again driving the front axle via a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Expect the list of standard features to include items like 16-inch steel wheels (with plastic covers), automatic halogen headlamps, LED daytime running lights, black cloth upholstery, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a reverse-view camera, rear parking sensors, 6 airbags and electronic stability control.

The new model features full-width taillamps.

Priced from R349 900, the Venue 1.0T Premium 7DCT will serve as the mid-tier option, offering the same grade as the entry-level variant (with a grey interior colour scheme) but scoring a turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol powerplant, likewise carried over from the outgoing version. Peak outputs remain 88 kW and 172 Nm, delivered via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Finally, the sportily styled Venue 1.0T N Line 7DCT looks set to top the local line-up, priced some R150 000 higher at R499 900 (though it’s worth keeping in mind that’s precisely what the previous version cost). It will employ the same turbocharged 1.0-litre motor and dual-clutch cog-swapper.

Note the rear wing and twin-exhaust tailpipe.

The N Line grade will include derivative-specific bumpers, a cheeky rear wing, body-coloured wheel-arch cladding, 17-inch alloy wheels, red brake callipers, a twin-exhaust tailpipe, a smattering of “N Line” badges and red detailing along its flanks. Inside, expect yet more red accents and “N Line” logos, along with alloy pedals.

The flagship derivative will furthermore feature some additional equipment, such as wireless smartphone charging, an electronic parking brake, push-button start, automatic (rather than manual) air conditioning, cruise control, a powered sunroof, LED headlamps, tyre-pressure monitoring, faux-leather upholstery, front-seat ventilation and a powered driver’s seat.

A look at the flagship N Line derivative’s cabin.

Revealed in October 2025, the 2nd-generation Hyundai Venue again measures 3 995 mm from bow to stern, though its wheelbase has grown by 20 mm to 2 520 mm. In addition, this model stands 48 mm taller (at 1 665 mm, depending on the derivative) and 30 mm wider (at 1 800 mm) than the outgoing version.

Furthermore, the Seoul-based automaker claims rear legroom in the Venue has been improved thanks both to the longer wheelbase and the “scooped” seatbacks of the redesigned front pews. The doors are said to open wider than before, too.

The 2nd-gen Venue is wider than the original.

The original Venue launched locally in late 2019 before being lightly facelifted in 2022, with Hyundai Automotive SA repositioning the Venue in mid-2024. Hyundai registered 5 156 units of the Venue in SA in 2023, with that figure dropping to 2 753 units in both 2024 and 2025 (yes, precisely the same number sold in each year). Some 624 units have been registered year to date in 2026, with stock running dry early in the 2nd quarter of the year.

What does the new Hyundai Venue cost in SA?

DERIVATIVEPRICE
Venue 1.2 Premium 5MTR319 900
Venue 1.0T Premium 7DCTR349 900
Venue 1.0T N Line 7DCTR499 900

We expect the prices above to include Hyundai’s standard 7-year/200 000 km warranty and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What does the new 2nd-generation Hyundai Venue cost in South Africa?

A: According to Cars.co.za, pricing for the new 2nd-generation Hyundai Venue range starts at R319 900 for the 1.2 Premium 5MT, moves to R349 900 for the 1.0T Premium 7DCT and tops out at R499 900 for the flagship 1.0T N Line 7DCT.

Q: Which engines power the new South African Hyundai Venue line-up?

A: The local line-up features two carried-over petrol powerplants: a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 61 kW and 115 Nm (mated to a 5-speed manual) and a turbocharged 1.0-litre 3-cylinder engine delivering 88 kW and 172 Nm (paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission).

Q: How have the dimensions of the new Hyundai Venue changed compared to the original model?

A: While maintaining its sub-4-metre length at 3 995 mm, the 2nd-generation Venue features a 20 mm longer wheelbase (2 520 mm), stands 48 mm taller (1 665 mm) and is 30 mm wider (1 800 mm), ostensibly providing improved cabin space and rear legroom.

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Rent-to-own and blacklisting: Consider DrivePass before you commit

Rent-to-own can sound like an attractive solution when a poor credit record prevents you from getting vehicle finance. But the promise of eventually owning a car can come with a lengthy commitment, substantial costs and conditions you need to understand. Before signing, consider a DrivePass subscription.

When you need reliable transport and the bank has declined your application, getting approved elsewhere can feel like the answer. However, approval is only the beginning. What matters is how much you will pay, how long you must keep paying and what happens if your circumstances change. Before committing to rent-to-own, compare it with DrivePass, Cars.co.za’s prepaid car-subscription offering.

DrivePass: Virtually new cars without a long-term commitment

Suzuki Swift as a 1st car

DrivePass gives you access to virtually new vehicles, from entry-level hatchbacks to larger family cars and SUVs. You can choose a vehicle that suits your needs and budget, subject to availability.

There are no traditional credit checks or requirements to submit bank statements and payslips. A poor credit score does not prevent you from using the offering.

How does DrivePass work?

Choose your car, pay a refundable deposit and your first 30 days’ fee upfront, then top up your account for each additional 30-day period.

There is no long-term lock-in, and you can change or cancel your plan without cancellation penalties. To cancel, return the vehicle and end your subscription.

Your monthly payment includes insurance, servicing, maintenance, warranty and tracking. You don’t even need to worry about routine tyre replacement. Simply add fuel and go.

There is a mileage allowance, with additional charges if you exceed it. Tolls and traffic fines are separate.

You need an eligible payment card and a valid driver’s licence first issued more than a year ago. 

Card requirements vary by subscription price.

The subscription does not automatically transfer ownership to you. However, you can explore buying the car at any stage. If your credit profile improves and you qualify for finance, DrivePass can help facilitate the purchase.

Browse available DrivePass cars and monthly prices

What does rent-to-own actually mean?

Rent-to-own generally allows you to use a vehicle while making payments over an agreed term. Ownership depends on completing the requirements in the contract, which may include a final purchase payment.

Getting the keys does not mean the car is yours. You need to establish exactly when ownership transfers and what you must pay to get there.

Why you should approach rent-to-own cautiously

1. Ownership can be years away

Some agreements require payments for 4.5 to 5 years. That is a substantial commitment, particularly if you are already working to repair your finances.

Ask yourself whether the payment will remain affordable if your income falls or household expenses rise. A manageable payment today does not guarantee a manageable commitment for the full term.

You also need to consider the age and condition of the car you will eventually own after those years of payments.

Oldest new cars in South Africa

2. The monthly payment can disguise the full cost

Rent-to-own can be an expensive route to ownership. The vehicle’s price may exceed its market value, and the total paid over the contract can be substantially higher than with traditional vehicle finance.

Calculate the upfront payment, every rental payment, fees and any final purchase amount. Then establish which running costs are additional. Insurance and maintenance are not included in every offering.

An accessible approval process does not necessarily mean good value.

3. You could pay for years and still leave without a car

If you cannot complete the ownership requirements, you may have paid substantial amounts without acquiring the vehicle.

In that situation, the promise of ownership has effectively delivered paid use of a car – and potentially an expensive rental at that. Depending on the contract, ending early can also carry financial consequences.

Before signing, ask what happens to payments already made and whether you will owe anything after returning the vehicle. Do not assume those payments become savings you can recover or put towards another car.

4. The car itself may bring additional costs

Vehicle age, condition and maintenance cover varies between providers. Some rent-to-own offerings involve older, higher-mileage cars that may need frequent repairs.

Check the vehicle’s condition and establish who pays when something goes wrong. Paying towards eventual ownership is less appealing if you are also funding significant repairs along the way.

5. A final payment could stand between you and ownership

Completing the monthly payments may not be the last step. Some agreements require a final lump sum before ownership transfers.

Establish that amount upfront and include it in your calculations. If you cannot afford the final payment, you may reach the end of the rental term without being able to buy the car.

Compare the commitment – not just the promise

Rent-to-own may suit some buyers, but the ownership promise should earn its place in your budget.

Compare actual quotes: upfront costs, monthly payments, included services, vehicle condition, ownership requirements and exit terms.

If your immediate priority is reliable transport while you improve your financial position, DrivePass offers a practical alternative: access to a virtually new car, bundled running costs and the flexibility to continue 30 days at a time.

You can meet today’s transport needs and revisit purchasing when you are better placed to do so.

Keep working on your credit profile … or get DrivePass

Cheapest Mercedes-Benz Cars in SA

Alongside meeting your transport needs, review your credit report, address incorrect information and work towards keeping payments up to date.

Treat improving your credit profile as a separate task. Using a car subscription should not be assumed to improve your credit score automatically.

If your credit profile improves and you qualify for vehicle finance, DrivePass can help you explore purchasing the car you are driving.

Explore DrivePass and find a car that suits your budget

Rivals, beware? Toyota SA boss bullish after sales record

After September 2026 saw Toyota post record sales in South Africa, the Japanese firm’s local boss has hinted at “very strong plans” for the final quarter of the year…

  • Toyota hit record sales in SA in September
  • Local boss predicts “very strong” Q4 2026
  • “We’re challenging ourselves at every level”

The head of Toyota South Africa Motors says the company has “very strong plans” for the final quarter of the year after the Japanese automaker’s local division posted record sales in September 2026.

As a reminder, Toyota SA Motors (including Lexus and Hino) not only ranked as Mzansi’s top-selling automaker in September 2026 but also posted its highest-ever single-month tally of 15 366 units. That represented an 11.2% month-on-month increase as well as a 24.9% share of the total market.

Toyota Corolla Cross

When asked about September’s record figure, Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of Toyota SA Motors, quipped that “it was slightly lower than our original plan”. He was speaking during a wide-ranging interview in Cars.co.za’s custom-built podcast booth at Naamsa’s SA Auto Week 2026 gathering in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal earlier in October.

“No, it was largely where we wanted to end up in September and we’ve got very strong plans for the remainder of the year. As a brand, we tend to – [when factoring in an uptick in] car-rental [sales] – have a fairly strong last quarter of the year. That’s always typically been our seasonality,” Kirby told us.

“It was a lot of hard work and we had tremendous support from our dealer network, from our fleet customers, from the car-rental companies as well. So, it was a good team effort and we intend to progress that for the remainder of the year. But it’s [still] an extremely tough market,” he said.

In September, the Prospecton-built Hilux and Corolla Cross led the charge for the brand, registering 3 769 units and 1 964 units, respectively. The Starlet (1 573 units), meanwhile, broke back into the top 5 on the list of SA’s best-selling passenger vehicles, with the Starlet Cross (1 478 units) and Urban Cruiser (1 328 units) likewise cracking the top 10.

Toyota Starlet Cross

“One shouldn’t think that [September’s record sales performance] was without effort. This has been extremely tough for us. We are challenging ourselves at every level – how do we create more value for customers, how do we improve our service levels, how do we enhance our products? We’ve taken very little price [increases] this year to try to keep our cars as competitive as possible. So, it’s been a big effort,” Kirby said.

Year to date at the end of September 2026, Toyota SA Motors has registered 113 975 units, putting it well ahead of the 2nd-placed Suzuki Auto SA (53 784 units). For the record, 2025 saw Toyota rank 1st in SA for the 46th consecutive year, reaching a total of 148 122 units. And, based on its current trajectory, the company appears well on track to eclipse that figure in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What record did Toyota South Africa Motors set in September 2026?

A: Toyota South Africa Motors recorded its highest-ever single-month sales tally of 15 366 units in September 2026, capturing a 24.9% share of the total local automotive market.

Q: Which models were Toyota’s best-sellers in South Africa during September 2026?

A: The locally built Hilux led the sales charge with 3 769 units, followed by the Corolla Cross (1 964 units), Starlet (1 573 units), Starlet Cross (1 478 units) and Urban Cruiser (1 328 units).

Q: What is Toyota SA’s total year-to-date sales figure at the end of Q3 2026?

A: By the end of September 2026, Toyota South Africa Motors registered a total of 113 975 units year-to-date, positioning the brand well ahead of its nearest competitor, Suzuki Auto SA.

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Ford Ranger 2.3 petrol vs 3.0 V6 diesel: The real-world costs and performance maths

How should buyers calculate the running costs between the Ranger 2.3 turbopetrol and the 3.0 V6 turbodiesel? We break down the fuel, price and performance metrics shoppers of these double-cab bakkies need to consider.

Since launching the current Ranger, Ford has regularly led double-cab sales in South Africa – the natural result of pouring significant resources into a single core segment. Globally, body-on-frame bakkies drive profitability for Ford. South Africa directly benefits from that global engineering scale, operating in a market where body-on-frame bakkies remain the top-selling vehicle category.

Much of Ford’s double-cab success was initially built on an engine option that no longer sits in the lineup: the 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel (BiT). Discontinuing the 2.0 BiT changed the performance-to-economy equation for prospective Ranger buyers.

The revised engine line-up created a noticeable gap in price, power and specification across the range. Because the 2.0 BiT delivered strong output for its displacement—frequently outperforming traditional large-capacity turbodiesels – it catered to a broad spectrum of South African buyers.

Now, with shifting fuel pricing and revised engine options, how should current and prospective Ford Ranger drivers rethink real-world performance versus total cost of ownership?

Search for a Ford Ranger on Cars.co.za

Why the Ranger 2.3 EcoBoost exists

Ford Ranger Sport
Of the local big-three legacy bakkie models, Ranger is the only one offering a turbopetrol.  

Among the established legacy bakkies in South Africa, the Ranger is unique in offering a high-output turbopetrol engine in its mainstream line-up.

Following line-up restructuring, buyers looking above the middle tier have to shop beyond the single-turbo 2.0 SiT diesel (125 kW) if they want high-grade trim levels with effortless highway cruising and overtaking capability.

Ford’s strategy guides traditional 2.0 BiT buyers toward the flagship 3.0 V6 turbodiesel models. Simultaneously, Ford introduced the 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbopetrol, an option unmatched by key competitors like Toyota, whose petrol Hilux offering remains limited to lower-spec commercial variants.

For buyers seeking a double-cab with high cabin comfort, premium tech and lifestyle styling (such as the Sport trim level), the choice often comes down to two distinct powertrains: the 2.3-litre turbopetrol or the range-topping 3.0 V6 turbodiesel.

Read more: How to optimise the fuel economy of your diesel-powered vehicle

Comparing the numbers: Power vs torque

South African bakkie buyers prefer diesel. For most Ranger double-cab trims, that now means a V6.

Before the arrival of modern luxury-spec imported bakkies, turbopetrol engines were rarely considered by local buyers. Mainstream competitors like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max focus almost exclusively on turbodiesel powerplant options. Adding a high-output turbopetrol to the Ranger was a bold move by Ford.

On paper, the figures reveal two very different driving characteristics:

  • Ranger 2.3 EcoBoost: Produces 222 kW, giving it roughly 20% more peak power than the 3.0 V6 turbodiesel (184 kW). For a lifestyle bakkie, peak power delivers lively acceleration and effortless high-speed highway overtaking.
  • Ranger 3.0 V6 EcoBlue: Produces 600 Nm of torque compared to the 2.3 EcoBoost’s 452 Nm – a torque advantage of nearly 33%.

That extra torque is invaluable for low-speed off-road driving, heavy towing and immediate low-down responsiveness when hauling heavy payloads. However, given that many urban lifestyle double-cabs rarely run near maximum payload capacity, buyers must decide whether that additional diesel torque is essential for daily driving.

Read more: Ford Ranger Tremor (2026) Long-term Review

Search for a Ford Ranger on Cars.co.za

Efficiency and purchase-price dynamics

The Ranger’s 2.3 EcoBoost turbopetrol is nearly a quarter more powerful than the 3.0 V6 turbodiesel.

South African double-cab buyers traditionally lean toward turbodiesels due to the fuel’s higher energy density, which typically yields better open-road range. However, engine capacity plays a role in closing that gap.

The 3.0 V6 turbodiesel features two extra cylinders and roughly 30% more engine displacement than the 2.3 turbopetrol. Consequently, real-world fuel consumption figures are closer than traditional petrol-versus-diesel assumptions suggest:

  • Claimed fuel consumption: The 2.3 EcoBoost has a claimed consumption of 9.3 L/100 km, while the 3.0 V6 EcoBlue claims 8.4 L/100 km – roughly a 10% efficiency advantage for the V6 diesel.

However, running costs must be calculated alongside the initial purchase price. The 3.0 V6 Sport model (which includes Ford’s permanent four-wheel-drive system) commands a significant premium over the 4×2 2.3 EcoBoost Sport.

Depending on the price gap at purchase, that capital saving covers dozens of full fuel tanks for the petrol model – translating to thousands of kilometres of driving before the diesel’s fuel efficiency advantages offset the initial cost difference.

Long-term ownership considerations

The Sport V6 has all-wheel drive, which enhances traction, stability and safety on dirt roads.

Beyond fuel consumption and purchase price, daily operating conditions factor into the total cost equation.

Modern turbodiesel engines equipped with complex emissions systems, such as diesel-particulate filters (DPFs) and AdBlue injection, require specific operational habits. Heavy stop-start urban traffic without periodic highway runs can lead to DPF clogging, while maintaining AdBlue fluid levels adds an extra maintenance step during long-distance travels.

Conversely, the 2.3 EcoBoost turbopetrol avoids AdBlue requirements entirely and offers responsive, smooth power delivery suited to urban commuting and rapid highway joining.

Diesel particulate filter systems don’t thrive in heavy traffic. AdBlue can become admin, too.  

For buyers using a double-cab primarily as an urban family vehicle and light leisure cruiser, the 2.3 EcoBoost presents a compelling case. It offers lower upfront expenditure, high peak power, and simpler daily operation against the heavy-towing capability and low-down shove of the 3.0 V6 diesel.

Search for a Ford Ranger on Cars.co.za