Record month for Chery! SA’s new-vehicle sales in July 2026

In July 2026, South Africa’s new-vehicle market hit its 22nd consecutive month of year-on-year growth, with Chinese brand Chery putting in its best showing yet…

  • SA’s new-vehicle sales up 11.9% year-on-year in July
  • July represented the 2nd-highest total of 2026 so far
  • Passenger-car market’s best effort since Sept 2014
  • Toyota SA Motors boosts its market share to 24.5%
  • Chery climbs to 6th place overall with a record total
  • Kia returns to the top 10 at the expense of Mahindra

In July 2026, sales in South Africa’s new-vehicle market increased 11.9% year on year to 57 708 units, representing not only the local industry’s 22nd straight month of year-on-year growth but also its 2nd highest total of the year thus far (marginally behind March‘s effort of 58 060 units).

July’s tally furthermore represented a 5.9% month-on-month improvement compared to the prior month, June 2026. That said, new-vehicle export volumes decreased 11.6% year on year (and 3.2% month on month) to 32 801 units.

According to industry-representative body Naamsa, an estimated 84.8% of July 2026’s total reported domestic figure of 57 708 units represented sales via the dealership channel, while 11.2% were sales to the new-vehicle rental industry, 2.2% to government and 1.8% to industry corporate fleets.

Mzansi’s new passenger-vehicle market reached 40 912 units (with rental sales accounting for a hefty 13.8% of that), an increase of 12.5% compared to July 2025 and the highest monthly passenger figure since as long ago as September 2014, according to Naamsa. Meanwhile, local sales of new light-commercial vehicles (LCVs) grew 10.6% year on year to 13 710 units.

Meanwhile, Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of NADA, said that “the July results clearly indicate that consumer confidence is improving”, suggesting the number of vehicles retailed through dealerships represented “an outstanding endorsement of the resilience of South African consumers and the strength of the retail motor industry”.

“Consumers are once again prepared to invest in their mobility when the right value, affordability and finance solutions come together, and dealerships across the country are seeing that confidence translate into showroom activity,” Cohen added.

New-vehicle sales summary for July 2026

  • Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 57 708 units increased by 11.9% (6 150 units) compared to July 2025.
  • New passenger-vehicle sales of 40 912 units increased by 12.5% (4 558 units) compared to July 2025.
  • New light-commercial vehicle sales of 13 710 units increased by 10.6% (1 309 units) compared to July 2025. 
  • Export sales of 32 801 units decreased by 11.6% (4 313 units) compared to July 2025.

SA’s 10 best-selling automakers in July 2026

Toyota Hilux
Toyota SA Motors registered its best month of the year thus far.

In July 2026, Toyota SA Motors stretched its lead as South Africa’s best-selling automaker, registering as many as 14 142 units (including its Lexus and Hino brands) across the country – its highest total of the year thus far and its best effort since September 2025. That represents a 13.9% month-on-month increase and works out to a total market share of 24.5% (up from 22.8% in June 2026).

Suzuki Auto SA retained 2nd place in July and fell just short of the 6 000-unit mark, with local sales increasing 5.4% month on month to 5 994 units. Volkswagen Group Africa (including Audi) was a mere 195 units behind in 3rd place, with registrations increasing 3.3% month on month to 5 799 units – its strongest showing of 2026 so far.

Meanwhile, Hyundai Automotive SA held steady in 4th position, growing its sales 2.4% month on month to 3 058 units. Ford Motor Company of SA (2 927 units; down 1.1% month on month) held onto 5th place, though was the only automaker in the top 5 to register a month-on-month decline, as marginal as it was.

According to our records, Chery SA registered its best month yet in Mzansi, climbing a ranking to 6th overall on the back of local sales increasing 4.1% month on month to a record 2 709 units in July 2026. That saw fellow Chinese automaker GWM SA drop a place to 7th, with sales slipping 4.0% month on month to 2 504 units.

Isuzu Motors SA remained in 8th spot in July, gaining 14.8% compared to June to end the month on 2 435 units. Meanwhile, with local registrations falling 0.1% month on month to 2 034 units, Jetour SA retained 9th position. Finally, Kia SA returned to the top 10, with sales increasing a considerable 35.6% month on month to 1 920 units – the South Korean brand’s highest total in several years (thanks in part to 420 units sold via the rental channel).

Which automakers ranked just outside the top 10 in July? Well, Omoda & Jaecoo SA (1 502 units, a new high for the Chery sub-division) was again 11th, just ahead of Mahindra SA (down 2 places to 12th with 1 458 units). Renault SA (1 360 units) found itself in 13th position, while BMW Group SA (on a Naamsa-estimated 1 256 units, including the Mini brand) and BYD Auto SA (860 units) again rounded out the top 15.

1. Toyota – 14 142 units

2. Suzuki – 5 994 units

3. Volkswagen Group – 5 799 units

4. Hyundai – 3 058 units

5. Ford – 2 927 units

6. Chery – 2 709 units

7. GWM – 2 504 units

8. Isuzu – 2 435 units

9. Jetour – 2 034 units

10. Kia – 1 920 units

SA’s new-vehicle sales outlook for the rest of 2026

So, where to from here for South Africa’s new-vehicle market? Well, Naamsa says that although the South African Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee maintained a “cautious stance at its July meeting”, leaving the repo rate unchanged, financing costs “remain elevated and continue to weigh on overall household affordability and vehicle-purchasing decisions, particularly in the credit-dependent segments of the market”.

“As affordability considerations become more pronounced, vehicle-purchasing decisions are being driven not only by upfront acquisition costs but also by total cost of ownership considerations and the availability of innovative financing structures, including extended loan terms and balloon payment arrangements, as households adapt to maintain personal mobility,” the industry-representative body explains.

After likewise touching on the unchanged repo rate (and referencing changes in fuel prices), NADA’s Cohen adds that “South African dealerships continue to underpin the resilience of the automotive industry”.

“Consumers are responding positively to greater certainty around interest rates, improving affordability and the value being offered by dealers. While challenges remain, July’s results give us growing confidence that this positive momentum can be sustained through the 2nd half of the year,” concludes Cohen.

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Chery Tiggo 8 Pro LS (2026) Price & Specs

Chery SA has launched a new Tiggo 8 Pro LS derivative, which lowers the 7-seater crossover line-up’s starting price by some R30 000. Here’s what it costs…

  • New variant lowers Tiggo 8 Pro’s starting price
  • Turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol mill makes 137 kW
  • Distinct exterior styling and upgraded cabin

Chery South Africa has rolled out a new Tiggo 8 Pro LS variant, pricing it some R30 000 lower than the previous entry point to the 7-seater crossover line-up.

Featuring front-end styling distinct from other SA-spec Tiggo 8 derivatives (as well as full-width LED taillamps), the new Tiggo 8 Pro LS is priced at R499 900. It effectively replaces the Executive+ variant, which had been priced at R529 900.

While the latter’s turbocharged 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine had generated 145 kW and 290 Nm, the freshly added Tiggo 8 Pro LS features slightly lower peak outputs at 137 kW and 275 Nm. Drive is still delivered to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, with the listed fuel consumption coming in at 7.2 L/100 km (on the WLTP cycle).

Inside, the new 7-seater derivative scores a 12.3-inch touchscreen (replacing the Executive+’s 10.25-inch item) and an “upgraded” 50-watt wireless smartphone charger, along with faux-leather upholstery, power-adjustable (and heated-and-ventilated) front seats, driver’s seat memory, dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof.

There’s also a 540-degree camera system and parking sensors (fore and aft), along with an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) package that includes blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, door-open warning, forward-collision warning, rear collision warning, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-departure prevention, lane-keeping assist, traffic-congestion assist and auto high-beams.

Other standard safety systems for the new derivative include 7 airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD, brake assist, hill-descent control, tyre-pressure monitoring, a speed-limit reminder and IsoFIX child-seat anchors.

According to Chery SA, the new LS derivative is available in 3 exterior paint colours: New Khaki White, New Carbon Black and Tech Grey. Note that the newcomer features a shorter warranty and service plan than its Tiggo 8 Pro Max siblings (details below).

What does the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro LS cost in SA?

DERIVATIVEPRICE
Tiggo 8 Pro 1.6TGDI LSR499 900
Tiggo 8 Pro Max 2.0TGDI ExecutiveR669 900
Tiggo 8 1.5T CSH PHEV ApexR729 900
Tiggo 8 Pro Max 2.0TGDI Executive AWDR731 900

The entry-level LS comes with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/75 000 km service plan, while the Pro Max and PHEV derivatives upgrade to a 7-year/200 000 km warranty and a 7-year/90 000 km service plan.

A 10-year/1-million km engine warranty (for the first owner) is also included in all cases, with the PHEV variant furthermore featuring a 10-year/unlimited km warranty on the battery pack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How much does the new Chery Tiggo 8 Pro LS cost in South Africa and which model does it replace?

A: It is priced at R499 900, effectively lowering the starting price of the 7-seater range by R30 000. It replaces the Executive+ derivative (previously priced at R529 900) as the entry point into the local line-up.

Q: What engine performance and fuel consumption figures are offered by the Tiggo 8 Pro LS?

A: It is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine delivering 137 kW and 275 Nm of torque. Drive is delivered to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, with a listed fuel consumption of 7.2 L/100 km on the WLTP cycle.

Q: What interior features, safety systems and warranties are included with the Tiggo 8 Pro LS?

A: Standard equipment includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 50W wireless charger, panoramic sunroof, faux-leather upholstery, 540-degree camera system, and a comprehensive ADAS safety suite. It comes backed by a 5-year/150 000 km warranty, a 5-year/75 000 km service plan, and Chery’s 10-year/1-million km engine warranty for the first owner.

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What happens when you drive a financed car without insurance?

One of the first things that cash-strapped car buyers do is consider cancelling their insurance. It’s a grudge purchase, after all. And you’re a safe driver … no one will know. You may think you’re smart, but the bank is smarter. Here’s why it’s a bad idea.

While online vehicle marketplaces like Cars.co.za offer detailed search tools showcasing extensive inventory for prospective vehicle buyers, once you’ve searched and signed on the dotted line, there is one more hoop to jump through: providing proof of comprehensive insurance if your new car is financed. Depending on your risk profile, that could easily amount to a few hundred or thousand rand extra per month. Often, it’s an expense that can feel hard to justify if you never need to claim. Money’s tight. So you decide to cancel it as soon as you drive off the forecourt. What could possibly go wrong?

The dealership loophole: Can you cancel insurance right after delivery?

South Africans are an innovative bunch. We adapt. We improvise. And no one likes to pay something for nothing. So, still revelling in the fresh smell of your new car, you send an email to the insurer to cancel the insurance policy for the financed amount.

You’ve done it. You’ve beaten the system. More cash back in your pocket for fuel, food or fun. With a victimless crime.

Except, you’ve only made yourself a victim of your own crime. That confirmation of cover sent to the bank wasn’t just a letter; it was proof of a condition built into a contract with them … and you’ve just broken it.

Your finance agreement requires you to keep the vehicle comprehensively insured for the duration of the loan because it protects the bank’s security.

In many cases, the insurer notifies the bank when a financed vehicle’s policy is cancelled, allowing the bank to identify that the finance agreement is no longer compliant.

How banks track policy cancellations (and what happens next)

Finance declined

The good news is, banks rarely use hooded figures with baseball bats to show you the error of your ways. Neither will they immediately send a repo truck to collect their asset.

You’ll first be issued a letter requesting a reinstatement of cover with a deadline (usually 10 to 14 business days).

Most finance agreements allow the bank to arrange lender- or bank-arranged insurance if you fail to maintain the required cover, with the cost added to your monthly instalment.

If by now you haven’t realised that you’ve lost the game, it’s just gotten worse: bank-arranged insurance premiums are typically priced at high-risk levels. There are no beneficial add-ons: forget about courtesy vehicles, bundled cheap gym rates or 3-month discounted fibre packages. The bank’s intent is to primarily protect its financial interest rather than provide the broader benefits found in a comprehensive policy you choose yourself. This is the insurance you really don’t want to be paying each month.

None of this is out of spite or retribution. The bank is merely protecting its financial interest.

Section 129 Notice of Default: When a quick shortcut turns into a legal nightmare

why younger drivers pay more for insurance

If you want to keep your car, this is the time to start paying. Fully and regularly, and even if it’s a lot more than you wanted to pay in the beginning. Defaulting on the bank’s arranged payments can turn the fight into a full-blown legal one.

If you continue to ignore the bank’s requests or default on your obligations under the finance agreement, the matter can ultimately progress to a Section 129 Notice of Default under the National Credit Act, informing you that you are in material breach of your loan contract terms. Depending on the circumstances, you may be given an opportunity to remedy the breach by reinstating comprehensive insurance and settling any outstanding amounts.

Keep ignoring that, and sit back and watch how quickly things spiral out of control. The bank will initiate court proceedings to repossess the vehicle, after which it gets auctioned. Not only have you lost the car; you’ll also be liable for the shortfall if the auction doesn’t cover the full outstanding value.

To top it off, you’ll be blacklisted.

Comparison: Voluntary insurance vs bank default

If you’re a serial cents-saving number cruncher, at first glance it may seem like a brilliant idea to cancel your financed car’s insurance. In reality, though, the numbers don’t add up. But the consequences do.

ScenarioVoluntary policyBank-arranged
Who chooses it?You shop around for the insurer and best termsThe bank selects it
Monthly costMarket-competitive ratesMore expensive, high-risk rates
What’s covered?Comprehensive (You & 3rd-party)Bank’s financial interest
Perks and add-onsCourtesy car, roadside assistance, etc.None
Vehicle statusYou keep driving safelyYou keep driving, but usually at high-risk insurance rates
Credit recordClean/good standingBreach recorded. Future credit may become more expensive

Clearly, cancelling your cover with the dealership in the rear-view mirror isn’t smart. Aside from the additional financial strain, you’re handing control of your finances to the bank. You’ll face bank-arranged insurance premiums offering little or no personal liability protection, default notices and possibly a risk of vehicle repossession.

All of which makes the initial insurance payment – negotiated on your own terms – seem a lot more attractive…

GAC GS3 Emzoom (2026) Review

Competing in one of the most hotly contested segments, the GAC GS3 Emzoom didn’t have the easiest of starts due to initial uncompetitive pricing. The addition of a significantly more affordable entry-level version should improve its chances of success.

We like: Nova model is more powerful than most rivals; dynamic and driver-oriented; good ride quality; handsome styling; lifetime engine warranty (for the first owner).

We don’t like: Only 2 airbags; no rear-view camera; small 47-litre fuel tank limits range; shorter service plan than key rivals; no price advantage over better-equipped alternatives; throttle mapping.

FAST FACTS

  • Model: 2026 GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T Nova
  • Price: R359 900
  • Engine: 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbopetrol
  • Transmission: 7-speed DCT
  • Power/Torque: 130 kW/270 Nm
  • Fuel consumption: 6.2 L/100km (claimed)
  • 0-100 kph: 8.0 seconds (claimed)/8.52 seconds (tested)
  • Luggage capacity: 341/1 271 L (claimed)

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Where does the GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T Nova fit in?

GAC Motor arrived in South Africa in 2024 courtesy of the Salvador Caetano Group, the same distributor that handles JMC locally. The GS3 Emzoom was their debut product: a small, front-driven turbopetrol crossover positioned squarely against market favourites such as the Haval Jolion Pro, Omoda C5, Chery Tiggo Cross and Toyota Corolla Cross. It is an undoubtedly handsome, well-engineered car, but its original pricing left it without a compelling value argument. Soon after launch, in January 2025, prices were reduced.

But, recently, the GS3 Emzoom’s value appeal arguably grew even stronger with the addition of the entry-level 1.5T Nova variant. By stripping the GS3 Emzoom back to a leaner specification level, the brand has brought the entry price down to R359 900 – the same price as the Chery Tiggo Cross 1.5T Million Edition and only R20 000 more than an entry-level Omoda C5 1.5T 230T Street+. So, the GAC’s price competitive, but the question is whether it justifies the choice over those two established alternatives. The answer is more nuanced than you might expect.

How the GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T Nova fares in terms of…

Design, Packaging & Features

The GS3 Emzoom is genuinely one of the better-looking crossovers in South Africa right now, and that remains true in Nova guise. The design language is confident and cohesive and, in our view, looks more like a slightly high-riding, sporty hatchback than a crossover. However, at 4 410 mm long, 1 850 mm wide and 1 600 mm tall on a 2 650 mm wheelbase, it is a proper small crossover with proportions that sit comfortably alongside its key rivals.

Aerodynamic, flush door handles – a feature more commonly found on cars costing considerably more – are a nice touch, and the 17-inch alloy wheels look appropriately sized. Our test car was finished in a striking metallic red.

Inside, the Nova’s cabin is fundamentally that of the established Emzoom family, and the Emzoom has always punched above its weight in this regard. A 10.25-inch touchscreen is the centrepiece, and it supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Keyless entry with remote start, cruise control, an electronic parking brake, hill-start assist and a multifunction steering wheel round out a reasonably well-equipped cabin. Seats are finished in a synthetic leather-and-fabric combination, which is appropriate for the price point.

Cabin space is good for the segment. The Emzoom’s interior is notably wide for its class, and rear-seat occupants will find adequate leg- and headroom. The boot offers 341 litres with the rear seats in place, expanding to a claimed 1 271 litres with the bench folded. The latter figure is class-competitive.

However, one oddity that stands out immediately is the parcel shelf cover: it feels like an afterthought, with flimsy construction and imprecise fitment that undermines the otherwise composed interior impression.

What the Nova does not have – and this is a notable omission – is a rear-view camera. Rear parking sensors are standard, but the absence of a camera is increasingly unusual at this price and in this segment. Both the Chery and the Omoda have this feature as standard.

However, the safety specification is where the Nova’s value proposition takes its most significant knock. It is equipped with just 2 airbags. Electronic stability control and traction control are standard, and GAC claims a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating for the Emzoom range. We’ve no doubt that rating was achieved with more expensive models featuring 6 airbags.

In a segment where the Chery Tiggo Cross offers 6 ‘bags and the Omoda C5 offers 4 as standard, having dual frontal airbags alone is a meaningful shortfall. Buyers who factor occupant protection into their purchasing decision – as all buyers should – will need to weigh this carefully.

Performance & Efficiency

From a performance perspective, the GAC GS3 Emzoom Nova makes a more convincing argument. The 1.5-litre, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine produces 130 kW and 270 Nm. It’s mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) driving the front wheels. Those headline figures make it one of the more powerful cars in this segment. The GAC’s torque advantage – 60 Nm over the Chery; 40 Nm over the Omoda – is clearly felt in real-world driving, particularly during overtaking and on climbs.

GAC claims a 0-100 kph sprint of 8.0 seconds, which on paper makes the Nova one of the fastest crossovers at its price. In our testing, it achieved a time of 8.52 seconds – pretty impressive.

A slight issue, and it’s one that afflicts a number of Chinese offerings, is “unrefined” throttle mapping. It’s a comparatively difficult car to drive smoothly. Give it a smidge too much throttle, and the Emzoom will spin its front wheels. Too little, and it feels frustratingly sluggish off the line.

In terms of fuel consumption, GAC claims 6.2 L/100 km, which actually bests its main rivals from China, despite the power advantage. Real-world returns, however, are higher, as they invariably are. In mixed driving, we recorded an average of approximately 7.5 L/100 km, which is still acceptable for a 130 kW turbopetrol in this class. A bigger concern, perhaps, is the size of the fuel tank; a class-smallest 47 litres means fill-ups every 590 km or so.  

Ride, Handling & Comfort

Its dynamic prowess is arguably the GAC GS3 Emzoom Nova’s most persuasive selling point. The Emzoom’s ride and handling balance is noticeably more driver-oriented than what you typically encounter in this class of Chinese crossover. The suspension – the usual MacPherson struts up front, torsion beam at the rear – is well calibrated for South African road conditions. It absorbs surface imperfections with a degree of poise, without floating or wallowing over fast sweepers.

In fact, it feels more dynamic and driver-oriented than its main Chinese rivals, with good damping and a sense of better precision. The steering has a weight and directness that complements the overall sense of engagement.

This is a car that rewards the driver who actually enjoys driving, rather than merely getting from A to B. Body roll is controlled and cornering composure is confident. On the highway, the Emzoom feels stable and refined, not nervous or skittish, as some entry-level Chinese crossovers can be.

GAC GS3 Emzoom Price & After-sales support

The GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T Nova sells for R359 900 (July 2026) and comes with a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty, a lifetime engine warranty for the first owner (reverting to 5 years/150 000 km on resale) and a 2-year/30 000 km service plan. Services are scheduled at 15 000 km intervals.

The service plan is one of the shortest in its segment. The Chery Tiggo Cross includes a 5-year/60 000 km plan. However, the Omoda C5 Street+ fares even worse than the GAC: just 2 years/25 000 km. The lifetime engine warranty is a meaningful headline benefit and offers genuine long-term peace of mind for the original owner.

Verdict

The GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T Nova is a genuinely likeable car. It’s well built, good to drive and handsome to look at. In a market segment where most Chinese crossovers feel exactly the same on the road, those qualities will matter to some buyers. Its performance advantage over the Chery Tiggo Cross and the Omoda C5 is real and meaningful, and the driving dynamics are a step above what most buyers in this segment will have experienced from a Chinese crossover.

However, it competes in a market that favours tech and “surprise-and-delight” features. Sadly, it lacks in those regards compared with its main rivals and doesn’t really have a price advantage.

And that is precisely the problem. At R359 900, the Nova costs the same as the Chery Tiggo Cross Million Edition, which matches it on price, offers 4 more airbags and a rear-view camera, and backs the purchase with a 5-year/60 000 km service plan.

Meanwhile, the Omoda C5 Street+ undercuts the Nova by R20 000, offers 4 airbags, a rear-facing camera, a larger 51-litre fuel tank, and also includes dual 10.25-inch screens. Both rivals win convincingly on spec-sheet breadth and, critically, on safety equipment.

The GAC GS3 Emzoom 1.5T Nova will appeal to buyers who prioritise how a car drives and looks over how comprehensively it is equipped. There may be buyers out there for whom that is an advantage, but they are likely dwindling. In a segment where customers are increasingly sophisticated and where safety ratings enter the conversation, the dual-airbag count and absent rear camera are difficult to overlook. 

Want to purchase a new or used GAC? Browse vehicles for sale

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Frequently Asked Questions

What engine and transmission power the GAC GS3 Emzoom in South Africa?

All GAC GS3 Emzoom models are powered by a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that develops 130 kW of power and 270 Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (7WDCT), accelerating the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.0 seconds.

How much does the GAC GS3 Emzoom cost in South Africa?

The GAC GS3 Emzoom crossover lineup is priced across several trim levels:
  • Emzoom Nova / Comfort Collection: Starts at R359 900
  • Emzoom Executive: Priced at R449 900
  • Emzoom R-Style: Priced at R499 900
  • Emzoom R-Style Plus: Tops the range at R529 900

What is the fuel consumption of the GAC GS3 Emzoom?

The GAC GS3 Emzoom has a claimed average combined fuel consumption of 6.2 litres per 100 km, allowing for an estimated driving range of roughly 758 km on its 47-litre fuel tank.

What technology and safety features come standard on the Emzoom?

Standard features include a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keyless entry, push-button start, automatic climate control, LED daytime running lights, and flush hidden door handles. Higher trims add a surround-view camera system and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like Adaptive Cruise Control and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

What warranty and service plan cover the GAC Emzoom in South Africa?

The GAC GS3 Emzoom comes with a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty alongside a special lifetime engine warranty for the original owner. It also includes a 5-year/60 000 km service plan (or 2-year/30 000 km on entry-level models), with service intervals set every 15 000 km or 12 months.

Toyota recalls over 2 000 Urban Cruiser units in SA

Toyota SA Motors has recalled over 2 000 units of the Urban Cruiser crossover due to a potential defect with each vehicle’s fuel-level indicator, according to the NCC…

  • Over 2 000 units affected in Mzansi
  • Potential fuel-level indicator fault
  • Recall follows similar action in India

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced that Toyota South Africa Motors has recalled more than 2 000 units of the current-generation Urban Cruiser over a potential defect with the fuel-level indicator.

According to the NCC, as many as 2 208 examples of the Indian-built crossover are affected (sold between 17 January 2025 and 3 June 2025), including 2 015 units sold in South Africa, along with 151 units in Namibia, 23 units in Botswana, 14 units in Eswatini and 5 units in Lesotho.

The NCC statement says that during the manufacturing process of each affected vehicle’s combination meter, there is a “possibility that the improper correction value of the fuel indicator has been written in the memory”.

“As a result, the fuel-level indicator in the combination meter may indicate more fuel than actually remaining. The low-fuel warning light may not turn on as the fuel decreases, so the driver may not notice and run out of fuel, resulting in the engine stalling and the engine not starting.”

The NCC urged those consumers who own the affected vehicles to approach an authorised Toyota dealership for a fuel-gauge inspection, adding that any “corrective work” would be performed at no cost to the vehicle owner.

As a reminder, the Urban Cruiser was effectively developed by Toyota’s global-alliance partner Suzuki (sharing much with the Grand Vitara), though the 2 models are manufactured by Toyota at its Bidadi plant in India. This generation of Urban Cruiser launched in South Africa in April 2023, before gaining extra standard kit in August 2025.

Though Suzuki Auto SA has yet to announce a similar recall for the Grand Vitara, nearly 40 000 units of this model were recalled in India in November 2025 for the same issue. A few days later, Toyota’s Indian division recalled over 11 000 examples of the Hyryder (the model we know as the Urban Cruiser).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why has Toyota South Africa recalled the Urban Cruiser and how many units are affected?

A: Toyota South Africa Motors initiated a safety recall for 2 208 units of the Urban Cruiser crossover (sold between 17 January 2025 and 3 June 2025) due to a potential fuel-level indicator defect. The recall covers 2 015 units sold in South Africa, as well as 193 exported units across Namibia (151), Botswana (23), Eswatini (14) and Lesotho (5).

Q: What causes the fuel gauge fault in affected Toyota Urban Cruiser models?

A: According to the National Consumer Commission (NCC), an improper fuel indicator correction value was written into the memory of the vehicle’s combination meter during manufacturing. This causes the fuel gauge to display more fuel than actually remains in the tank and prevents the low-fuel warning light from activating, creating a risk of running out of fuel and unexpectedly stalling.

Q: What action should affected Urban Cruiser owners take and will repairs be free?

A: Owners of affected vehicles are urged to take their Urban Cruiser to an authorised Toyota dealership for a fuel-gauge inspection. Any required software or hardware corrective work will be performed free of charge to the vehicle owner.

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Double-cab bakkie sales in SA: H1 2026 leaderboard

Which model is leading SA’s double-cab bakkie sales race after H1 2026? Here’s a look at the double-, extended- and single-cab figures for opening half of the year…

  • Ranger leads SA’s double-cab sales charts in H1 2026
  • Hilux again dominates single- and extended-cab space
  • Mahindra Pik Up retains 3rd spot on single-cab charts

At the year’s halfway mark, the Toyota Hilux remains South Africa’s runaway bakkie-sales leader, more than 6 000 units clear of the Ford Ranger and nearly 9 000 units ahead of the Isuzu D-Max. But do the rankings change when we break down the figures by body style? Well, let’s take a closer look and reveal the most popular single-, extended- and double-cab bakkies for the opening half of 2026.

Based on figures kindly supplied by Lightstone Auto, we can confirm the Ford Ranger still leads the race for the title of SA’s most popular double cab (a crown it secured for the 3rd consecutive year in 2025). In H1 2026, some 10 075 units have been registered, which our maths suggests forms 80.8% of the Ranger’s overall tally for this 6-month period.

After the opening half of 2026, the Toyota Hilux – remember, the local range currently comprises a mix of 8th- and 9th-generation derivatives, with the latter variants having launched in June 2026 – ranks 2nd on the double-cab leaderboard, with 7 887 units registered. Based on our calculations, that represents 41.8% of the Prospecton-built model’s overall total.

 DOUBLE-CAB BAKKIEH1 2026 REGISTRATIONS
1Ford Ranger Double Cab10 075 units
2Toyota Hilux Double Cab7 887 units
3Isuzu D-Max Double Cab4 415 units
 All other double cabs13 635 units
*Table collated by Cars.co.za based on Lightstone Auto data

As such, the Isuzu D-Max – which was finally facelifted in May 2026 – grabs the 3rd spot on South Africa’s double-cab sales podium for H1 2026, with 4 415 units registered. Our arithmetic suggests that translates to 43.9% of the Struandale-built nameplate’s overall figure for this reporting period.

Lightstone Auto’s dataset furthermore shows that all other 1-tonne double-cab bakkie derivatives – that is, excluding the aforementioned Ranger, Hilux and D-Max (and indeed models from any brands that don’t report sales figures to industry-representative body Naamsa) – collectively managed 13 635 units in the opening half of 2026.

SA’s single- and extended-cab bakkie sales in H1 2026

What’s happening in the single-cab space? Well, the Toyota Hilux continues to serve as South Africa’s best-selling single cab in H1 2026, with 8 101 units (or 42.9% of its overall tally) registered. Second place in this reporting period again goes to the Isuzu D-Max single cab, with 4 849 units (or 48.2% of its total).

Meanwhile, the 2-door version of the KwaZulu-Natal-assembled Mahindra Pik Up once more completes the single-cab podium in the opening half of 2026, with 3 711 units sold (or a hefty 79.1% of the Indian bakkie’s total). For the record, the Ranger single cab finished the 6-month reporting period on just 707 units.

 SINGLE-CAB BAKKIEH1 2026 REGISTRATIONS
1Toyota Hilux Single Cab8 101 units
2Isuzu D-Max Single Cab4 849 units
3Mahindra Pik Up Single Cab3 711 units
 All other double cabs7 848 units
*Table collated by Cars.co.za based on Lightstone Auto data

Unsurprisingly, the Toyota Hilux leads the extended-cab race in H1 2026, too, with 2 589 units sold. The Ford Ranger finds itself in 2nd on 1 740 units, followed by the Isuzu D-Max on 804 units. As a reminder, these are the only 3 bakkies currently available in the so-called “cab-and-a-half” body style in South Africa.

 EXTENDED-CAB BAKKIEH1 2026 REGISTRATIONS
1Toyota Hilux Xtra Cab2 589 units
2Ford Ranger Super Cab1 740 units
3Isuzu D-Max Extended Cab804 units
*Table collated by Cars.co.za based on Lightstone Auto data

For the record, the Hilux (18 862 units; up 14.1% year on year) leads the overall bakkie sales race after the first half of 2026, with Ranger (12 472 units; up 0.6% year on year) ranking 2nd and the D-Max (10 068 units; up 2.3% year on year) in 3rd position.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Which bakkie is leading South Africa’s double-cab sales race after H1 2026?

A: According to Cars.co.za, the Ford Ranger double cab leads the double-cab segment in H1 2026 with 10 075 units registered, representing 80.8% of total Ranger sales. It is followed by the Toyota Hilux double cab in 2nd place (7 887 units) and the Isuzu D-Max double cab in 3rd place (4 415 units).

Q: Which model tops the single-cab bakkie sales charts for the first half of 2026?

A: The Toyota Hilux single cab continues to dominate the workhorse segment with 8 101 units sold. The Isuzu D-Max single cab holds 2nd position with 4 849 units, while the Mahindra Pik Up single cab retains 3rd spot with 3 711 units registered.

Q: What are the overall bakkie sales totals for South Africa in H1 2026 across all body styles?

A: According to Cars.co.za, across all body styles (single, extended and double cab), the Toyota Hilux leads overall with 18 862 units registered (up 14.1% YoY). The Ford Ranger ranks 2nd overall with 12 472 units (up 0.6% YoY) and the Isuzu D-Max ranks 3rd with 10 068 units (up 2.3% YoY).

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All-new 3rd-gen Mercedes-Benz GLA unveiled

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA is available with electric and petrol hybrid and this 3rd-gen model is under consideration for South Africa.

This is the 3rd-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA and the Stuttgart-based brand is offering the vehicle with a choice of either petrol or electric. Officially, Merc says its ‘electric-first’ which is understandable given how Europe is gearing for a battery-electric future.

The looks are more reserved than the rest of Mercedes-Benz’s current releases which is justified given this a mainstream model. Naturally, it too features the large grille, which features 608 LEDs in the electric derivatives. There are some neat touches like the aerodynamic door handles. There’s a new identity for the rear tail lights.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA shares the same Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform as the recently-launched CLA sedan (which we drove recently) and as a result, has grown in size. Overall length is up 102 mm to 4 565 mm, it is 39 mm wider and the wheelbase has grown by 61 mm to 2 790 mm. One of the criticisms of the outgoing model was its lack of rear cabin space, so this is progress.

With the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA now being offered with both combustion power and battery-electric motors, this means its the end of the road for the all-electric EQA. The internal-combustion petrol engine is a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid tech.

Full outputs were not revealed, but the release suggested the launch range will comprise outputs of 120 kW to 140 kW, with both front-wheel and 4Matic all-wheel drive. There’s a new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and the vehicle can run briefly on pure electric power thanks to a 1.3 kWh battery.

There was more info regarding the electric GLA where the GLA 200 offering up 165 kW and 335 Nm from a single motor powered by a 58 kWh LFP battery. The GLA 250+ brings 200 kW and 335 Nm, while the GLA 350 4Matic packs 260 kW and 515 Nm. Both have 85 kWh NMC batteries.

The electric GLA range is assembled on 800V architecture which can accept 320 kW, and the range claims look more than adequate, on paper at least.

  • GLA 200 394-447 km
  • GLA 250+ 577-657 km
  • GLA 350 4Matic 555-643 km

Climb inside and the new cabin is dominated by large screens. Passengers can opt for a screen on their side should the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.5-inch central infotainment screen be inadequate. The latest iteration of MBUX now features an AI-powered virtual assistant.

There’s a new panoramic glass roof as standard which Mercedes-Benz says is made of special heat-insulating laminated glass. There’s also a full loadout of driver-assistance tech as well as safety hardware in the form of 5 radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors and 8 cameras.

When will the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA come to South Africa?

Officially and according to Mercedes-Benz South Africa, the new 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA is under consideration for our market. We think that given the recent arrival of the Audi Q3, plus the BMW X1 proving popular, Mercedes-Benz SA will try get into local showrooms before the end of next year.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What platform and powertrains underpin the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA?

The third-generation 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA is built as an “electric-first” vehicle on the modern MMA architecture. It is offered with fully electric battery-powertrains as well as electrified combustion engine variants featuring 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance.

When is the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA arriving in South Africa?

Following its global reveal, the new 2027 GLA model range is rumoured to arrive in South Africa around mid-2027.

How do the interior technology and digital features update on the 2027 GLA?

The redesigned cabin introduces a panoramic glass roof, a large MBUX Superscreen spanning across the dashboard, and a next-generation MBUX Virtual Assistant powered by generative AI for intuitive natural voice interaction.

Is the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLA larger than the previous generation?

Yes, the 2027 GLA model is noticeably larger, measuring 4,565 mm in length (+102 mm), 1,873 mm in width (+39 mm), and standing on an expanded 2,790 mm wheelbase (+61 mm) to increase passenger legroom and overall cabin comfort.

What standard service and maintenance plan is offered on Mercedes-Benz vehicles in SA?

In South Africa, new Mercedes-Benz models typically come standard with the brand’s PremiumDrive Comfort Care Plan, providing 5 years or 100,000 km of service and maintenance coverage alongside a 2-year / unlimited kilometre manufacturer’s warranty.

VW wants to simplify its operations, but at what cost?

In an effort to become more profitable, Volkswagen will dramatically reduce the number of models and options it offers. How did we get here?

Germany’s biggest company offers too many models across too many configurations to too few buyers. Ten years ago, VW was the world’s biggest car company, and arguably its most successful. Since then, it’s been struggling.

In China, demand for Audi and VW products dropped by more than 25% in the first half of this year. Porsche, once the most profitable car company by units sold in the world, had its worst year on record.

To understand the scale of the problem, you have to understand the structure. VW is arguably the world’s most complicated car company. It has a motorcycle brand (Ducati), a Spanish legacy brand that it doesn’t sell in most global markets (Seat), and two trucking divisions (MAN and Scania). Then there’s Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini and Porsche. All ultra-premium and luxury car brands.

In a year where its passenger car division has performed poorly, the only silver lining was Škoda. And that’s telling, because in the world’s 2 biggest car markets – the United States of America and China – few people know what a Škoda is.

The first half of 2026 numbers are bad and they’re not predicted to get any better towards year-end.

Leadership at VW has suggested it needs to reduce global headcount by a staggering 100 000 employees. That would be the biggest number of job losses sustained by any car company in history.

VW also wants to close 4 factories in Germany. Bitter negotiations are underway between VW, organised labour and local German governments where those VW car factories operate.

Investors, workers and suppliers are desperate for answers about the future of VW before the European summer shutdown, which runs for most of August.

The Group is simply too big

South African David Powels is VW Passenger Car CFO. He has very difficult decisions to make.

The current VW Group structure was created in the late 1990s into the early 2000s by one of the best automotive engineers in history: Ferdinand Piëch (1937–2019). However, without his coercive personality, authoritarian control and ability to force through R&D priorities, the complex and layered VW structure is buckling.

Managing the engineering needs of different parts of the VW Group while keeping production costs in check is extremely difficult. VW’s only real rival in terms of scale is Toyota, and its structure and model line-up are both a lot simpler. It also sells a lot more body-on-frame models (bakkies and rugged SUVs), which are cheaper to engineer and build, and easier to make a profit on. VW knows it needs more of a presence in the bakkie and rugged SUV market…

Eastern Cape-born and -educated David Powels has spent his entire career at VW, including stints in South America and China. He now serves in a powerful position as the VW Passenger Car and Group Core CFO in Germany. Many of the most challenging financial decisions about staff reductions and factory closures in Germany need to be guided by Powels.

So, what are the plans? One of the solutions is to cut the global model range by half by 2030. Simultaneously, the Group wants to reduce the number of build options – powertrain, colour, trim, and spec additions – by 75%. These are changes with immense consequences for Germany’s largest automaker, both abroad and in South Africa.

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Many fewer choices

Interesting engines, colours and carbon trim bits? Those options might be disappearing in future.

VW has been very careful with its wording about the plans to reduce its model range by 2030. The core products will likely remain, i.e. don’t expect the Polo or Tiguan to go anywhere. However, models developed and built for regional markets could be axed.

VW South Africa’s continuation cars, especially the Vivo, have accounted for the bulk of the brand’s local sales over the last few years. But we know that the current Vivo is nearly out of technical runway and viable supplier support, so seeing it disappear won’t be the cause of the unprecedented VW global restructuring. It was always going to happen.

However, other models like the Taigo and T-Roc might be at higher risk. Although these low-roofline crossovers sell for more than their donor cars (T-Cross and Golf), the configuration and production complexity of their unique shapes are costs VW may not be able to sustain.

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The problem with simplification

Will all these interior luxury trim options still exist by 2030?

A simplified VW model range in South Africa, with fewer options and more affordable base models, could work out well. Consumers are cash-strapped and the Chinese brands offer amazing value. VW has been going upmarket in South Africa for a long time, but that looks set to end in the near future. The brand will need to reposition to its roots as a simpler, family-car company.

A potentially bigger issue exists for Audi and Porsche. Customers who spend luxury car money want options, lots of configuration options – from engines to wheels, to cabin trim, to all manner of other individualisation items, including expensive paint options.

Reducing the number of options an Audi or Porsche customer can specify by up to 75% could put both brands in a difficult position. Even more so if their 2 German rivals (BMW and Mercedes-Benz) continue to offer greater depth of options and configurability.

Additionally, no discussion of automotive product planning can exist without mentioning China. Full-house specification is standard with most Chinese models. And increasingly, Chinese brands are offering a depth of factory-level customisation that’s deeply impressive. The recent launch of iCAUR in South Africa, with its extraordinary colour and trim combinations, is proof of that.

In a future car market where Chinese brands are offering more luxury models, with comprehensive specs and lots of customisation options, how does the VW Group respond with a product range that is going to become 75% simpler?

VW needs a Golf 1 moment

Can VW do affordable and purposeful cars again?

This is not VW’s first crisis. The company nearly went bankrupt in the early 1970s because it was too preoccupied with air-cooled engines.

Although the original Beetle and Kombi were globally successful, VW’s product planners obsessed over horizontally opposed air-cooled engines. This came at the cost of developing more traditional family-car configurations such as front-wheel drive and water-cooled, inline-engine platforms.

The air-cooled fixation nearly ruined the company. But in its moment of crisis, it created a product that would save the brand and give it a dominant position in the family car market for years: the Golf 1.

During the early 1990s, the company faced rising production costs and was under threat from Japanese automakers that were building better sedans and hatchbacks. By the early 2000s, VW was pioneering design, cabin comfort, and powertrains in the family hatchback and sedan market. In only 10 years, it went from crisis to product excellence under the powerful leadership of Ferdinand Piëch. Can it do so again by 2030?

Search for a VW on Cars.co.za

Supersized Audi Q9 revealed (and it’s coming to SA)

The new Audi Q9 has been revealed as the German brand’s flagship SUV. And this massive luxury barge has already been pencilled in for a 2027 launch in South Africa…

  • New Q9 is larger than both X7 and GLS
  • 3.0 V6 TDI engine detailed for Europe
  • SQ9 with 4.0-litre V8 confirmed for US
  • Scheduled to hit South Africa in 2027

Meet the new Audi Q9. Billed as the Ingolstadt-based automaker’s largest SUV to date, the fresh-faced, 3-row luxury model slots in at the very summit of Audi’s portfolio, above the Q7 and Q8. And it’s already been pencilled in for a 2027 launch in South Africa.

Measuring 5 310 mm long, 2 210 mm wide and 1 810 mm tall (with a wheelbase stretching 3 140 mm), the new Q9 – which will be built in Bratislava, Slovakia – debuts as the largest Audi of all time. For context, the current BMW X7 is 5 181 mm long, while the X167-series Mercedes-Benz GLS measures 5 207 mm from front to back.

The new Q9 is larger than the X7 and GLS.

The German brand says it will offer 2 “distinct equipment packages” (standard and S line) and 2 interior variants. As standard, the new Audi Q9 will seat 7 occupants across 3 rows, though the luxury SUV will also be optionally available with 6 seats – including a pair of power-adjustable individual pews in the 2nd row.

According to Audi, highlights will include the “largest-ever” panoramic sunroof fitted to an Audi as standard, a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, alloy wheels up to 23 inches in diameter, digital Matrix LED headlights, 3rd-generation digital OLED taillamps and adaptive air suspension. There are also new “advanced turn signals”, which project stylised indicators onto the ground when signalling at night.

Audi Q9 interior
A trio of displays up front.

Audi claims the new Q9’s infotainment is “clearer and more user-centric” than earlier systems. The curved MMI panoramic display comprises a 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display. There’s also a 12.3-inch passenger display with what the brand calls “distraction-free dynamic privacy mode” (which ostensibly ensures “distracting content such as videos cannot be viewed from the driver’s seat while driving”).

Though powertrain options for South Africa have yet to be confirmed, Audi’s international press material suggests a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine (driving all 4 wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission) will be offered in Europe. Interestingly, the brand looks set to offer this 6-cylinder oil-burner in 2 states of tune: a 180 kW/500 Nm version and a 220 kW/630 Nm iteration.

The new Audi SQ9, confirmed for the US market.

In either case, a mild-hybrid system – comprising a generator, alternator starter and a lithium iron phosphate battery pack – is included. The “powertrain generator” provides up to 18 kW and 370 Nm when “starting off and overtaking”. The V6 TDI unit also features an electrically powered compressor, which “complements” the mild-hybrid set-up, as well as 2-stage turbocharging.

There will also be an Audi SQ9, though Audi’s North American arm says this Audi Sport performance model will be “built for the US market”. The SQ9 features the Volkswagen Group’s twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, which delivers 441 kW to all 4 corners. It’s not yet clear which other markets will receive the SQ9.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When is the new Audi Q9 arriving in South Africa, and how does its size compare to competitors?

A: The flagship Audi Q9 is pencilled in for a South African arrival in 2027. Measuring 5 310 mm long, 2 210 mm wide and 1 810 mm tall with a 3 140 mm wheelbase, it debuts as the largest Audi of all time — eclipsing key full-size 3-row rivals such as the BMW X7 (5 181 mm long) and Mercedes-Benz GLS (5 207 mm long).

Q: What cabin configurations and tech features are showcased in the Audi Q9 interior?

A: The Q9 seats 7 occupants across 3 rows as standard, with an optional 6-seat setup featuring power-adjustable individual 2nd-row seats. Tech highlights include a curved MMI display (12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit and 14.5-inch touch screen), a dedicated 12.3-inch front passenger display with privacy mode, Audi’s largest panoramic sunroof and OLED taillamps.

Q: What engine options have been detailed for the Audi Q9 and SQ9 ranges?

A: Internationally, Audi detailed a 3.0-litre V6 TDI mild-hybrid engine for Europe offered in 2 outputs (180 kW/500 Nm and 220 kW/630 Nm) with an 8-speed automatic. Additionally, the high-performance Audi SQ9 performance model gets a 441 kW 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine. Local SA powertrain specs will be confirmed closer to launch.

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GWM P500 3.0TD coming to SA with ‘class-leading’ torque

The GWM P500 3.0TD is set to launch in South Africa later this year, offering what the Chinese brand terms a “class-leading” torque output. Here’s what to expect…

  • New 3.0TD engine confirmed for P500
  • Maximum torque to come in at 620 Nm
  • Bakkie market’s torquiest 4-pot diesel?

The GWM P500 3.0TD is expected to launch in South Africa later in 2026, offering a markedly higher torque figure than derivatives fitted with the Chinese brand’s current 2.4-litre turbodiesel motor. In fact, it looks set to debut as the torquiest 4-cylinder turbodiesel bakkie in the country.

As a reminder, the Baoding-based automaker confirmed back in April 2025 it was developing a new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine. Now, GWM South Africa has published a “Register Your Interest” page on its website, with posts on the brand’s social-media platforms revealing the P500 3.0TD is “coming soon”.

Exactly when the newcomer is scheduled to hit the market in Mzansi has yet to be confirmed, though it’s worth keeping in mind GWM has announced the new engine will make its “global debut in Australia this September [2026]”. So, it’s fair to assume we won’t see it before then.

What do we know about the new powerplant? Well, the 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder oil-burning engine boasts peak outputs of 170 kW and 620 Nm, representing respective increases of 35 kW and 140 Nm compared to the 2.4-litre 4-pot. The new motor is paired with GWM’s in-house developed 9-speed automatic transmission as standard.

According to specifications released for the Australian market, the new 3.0-litre turbodiesel version of the P500 (a model known in that market as the Cannon Alpha) has a claimed fuel consumption of 7.3 L/100 km, seemingly on the NEDC standard. The braked towing capacity, meanwhile, is listed as 3 500 kg, the same as that of the P500 2.4TD derivatives.

In Australia, GWM notes the new 3.0-litre engine “matches the largest-displacement 4-cylinder turbodiesel” currently available in that market and “sets a new benchmark with [its] class-leading torque output”.

It will be a similar case here in South Africa, where the P500 3.0TD’s 620 Nm will eclipse the peak twisting force of the Isuzu D-Max‘s 3.0TD (450 Nm), Nissan Navara‘s 2.5DDTi (450 Nm), Mitsubishi Triton‘s 2.4DI-D Bi-Turbo (470 Nm), Toyota Hilux‘s 2.8GD-6 (500 Nm) and LDV Terron 9‘s 2.5TD (520 Nm). Its maximum torque will even beat that of the Ford Ranger‘s 184 kW 3.0TD V6 (600 Nm), a 6-cylinder mill also used by the Volkswagen Amarok.

Of course, the upcoming GWM P500 3.0TD won’t be the torquiest double-cab bakkie in South Africa, with that title instead going to the freshly launched 350 kW BYD Shark 6 Performance, which churns out 700 Nm courtesy of its plug-in hybrid petrol powertrain. In addition, the current 255 kW GWM P500 2.0T HEV offers a maximum of 648 Nm from its petrol-hybrid arrangement.

It remains to be seen whether the 135 kW/480 Nm 2.4TD engine (which also does duty in the P300 and Tank 300 portfolios) and 2.0T HEV powertrains will remain in the P500 range or end up being outright replaced by the 3.0TD unit. It has, however, been confirmed that the new 3.0-litre motor will also be offered locally in the Tank 500.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When will the new GWM P500 3.0TD launch in South Africa, and what are its key engine specifications?

A: The GWM P500 3.0TD is expected to arrive in South Africa later in 2026, following its global debut in Australia in September 2026. Powered by a new 3.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, it delivers peak outputs of 170 kW and 620 Nm of torque.

Q: How does the P500 3.0TD’s torque output compare to other double-cab bakkies in South Africa?

A: Generating 620 Nm, the P500 3.0TD is set to debut as the torquiest 4-cylinder turbodiesel bakkie in SA, outperforming 4-cylinder rivals like the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 (500 Nm) and LDV Terron 9 2.5TD (520 Nm). Its torque output even surpasses 6-cylinder diesel alternatives like the Ford Ranger 3.0 V6 (600 Nm), though hybrid models like the 700 Nm BYD Shark 6 Performance remain overall torque leaders.

Q: What are the towing and efficiency ratings for the 3.0TD engine?

A: According to specifications released for right-hand-drive markets, the 3.0-litre turbodiesel P500 has a claimed fuel consumption of 7.3 L/100 km and retains a standard braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg.

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