How to sell a financed car privately in South Africa

What’s the safest way of selling a financed car in South Africa? How does that compare to selling privately? How does positive or negative equity affect the transaction? And which selling platforms can simplify the process? Let’s find out how the process works.

Be it owing to buyer’s remorse, a desire to upgrade or a sudden lack of affordability, it’s almost inevitable that at one point in your motoring journey, you will get to a situation where you will be selling a car that is still financed. Understanding the rights of all interested parties, as well as your financial position afterwards, determines how – and if – such a transaction can be viably carried out.

Can you sell a financed car privately in South Africa?

Yes. When it’s financed, however, it’s not as easy as just listing the vehicle for sale on Cars.co.za. That’s because as long as you’re still paying monthly instalments, the car isn’t yours. In legal terms, you are the operator while the bank is the title holder. When selling privately, the bank is due what it’s owed first. As the legal title holder, it will release the original certificate of ownership (NaTIS) only once the full finance amount has been settled.

Step-by-step: How to sell your financed car to a private buyer

Selling your under-finance car requires a step-by-step procedure of compliance and the correct procedure:

1. To ascertain the exact outstanding value of the loan amount, you will have to request a 14-day settlement letter from your vehicle’s finance house.

2. Once a price has been agreed upon, the prospective buyer settles the outstanding balance directly with the bank.

3. If the funds have been correctly received, the bank will release the original NaTIS/registration document to you.  

4. The Notification of Change of Ownership (NCO) must then be completed. The seller needs to submit the NCO form to their local licensing department to register the transfer, while the buyer takes the original NaTIS along with their own RLV (Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle) form and a Roadworthy Certificate to register the car in their name.

Understanding equity: What happens with a shortfall or a surplus?

In terms of your credit status, you will at this stage find yourself in 3 possible scenarios, listed in order of preference:

  • If the car was sold for a higher price than what was owed to the bank, you have earned a profit (positive equity) that can be used towards a deposit on your next purchase.
  • Should the settlement have matched the vehicle’s value, you’ve broken even. You’re debt-free but cash-neutral.
  • By far the worst case scenario is being stuck with negative equity: that’s when you owe more on the car than the car is worth on the market. Example: you sell your car for R300 000 while still owing the bank R400 000. You will be liable for the R100 000 difference before the bank releases the car’s papers to you. You’ll either have to pay that amount out of pocket, refinance it separately, or include it in the finance of your next vehicle purchase. None of these scenarios is ideal, locking you into a debt trap lasting many more years than you would have liked.

Private sale vs. selling directly to a dealer or a platform

If you’re uncomfortable with the hassle and security issues of private vehicle sales, and are similarly put off by the sometimes-predatory nature of dealerships when trading in, there is another alternative.

The recent rise of instant-offer platforms has created another avenue for would-be sellers looking for the safest and quickest way of selling their cars in South Africa; financed or otherwise. As one-stop shops (or effectively single-visitors to you), these handle all the paperwork and intermediary admin with your bank.

Private saleTraditional dealer trade-inDealer network platform (Cars.co.za)
Risk levelHigh. Possibility of payment fraud, test drive risks and sharing personal information.Low. Established physical business premises and verified transactions.Low. Fully vetted, verified dealer network with secure escrow/bank clearing.
Convenience levelLow. You handle bank settlement, buyer queries, NaTIS collection and licensing.High. Dealer manages bank payoff and transfer paperwork for you.High. Single inspection; platform handles bank settlement and full admin.
Finance settlement procedureManual. Buyer pays bank directly, or you coordinate funds clearance.Seamless. Dealer settles outstanding loan directly with your finance house.Seamless. Dealer settles bank balance and pays out surplus directly to you.
Speed to sellSlow. Days to weeks depending on listing traction and buyer finance approval.Fast. Same day, usually tied to purchasing another vehicle on-site.Fast. Inspection to offer and payout typically within 24 to 48 hours.
Realised valueHighest potential. Cuts out middleman margins, although open to negotiation.Lower. Trade-in offers factor in dealer markup and reconditioning costs.Competitive. Multiple dealers compete for your vehicle, driving up the offer price.

Safety meets value

Selling a financed car privately is entirely possible. The process doesn’t have to be a minefield of bank and licensing queues, NaTIS delays, or private buyer risks. However, the biggest danger sellers face isn’t just administrative; it’s falling into a debt trap. If you have negative equity, rolling an unsettled balance into your next car-finance agreement locks you into compounding debt for years to come. Settle your outstanding balance before taking on a new commitment.

While a traditional private sale gives you control over your asking price, managing settlement letters, test drives, and title transfers by yourself takes time and exposes you to transaction fraud. Using a trusted multi-dealer platform eliminates all that uncertainty.

Ready to sell your financed car hassle-free?

Skip the lowball trade-in offers and dodgy late-night private meeting risks. Listing your vehicle on Cars.co.za’s Sell My Car entitles you to receive competitive cash offers from over 1 500 verified South African dealers, with full bank settlement and NaTIS admin handled seamlessly for you. It’s the smartest, safest way to wrap up your finance and pave the way for your next financial move.

Read more:

Should I buy from a dealer or private seller?

New Mazda CX-5 for SA: local line-up uncovered

Ahead of the new Mazda CX-5’s official launch in SA, we’ve unearthed several details about the local line-up, including specifications and powertrain particulars…

  • New CX-5 to arrive in South Africa in August 2026
  • Local line-up to comprise 4 derivatives at launch
  • Fresh Homura specification set to top the portfolio
  • “Recalibrated” 2.5-litre petrol mill to make 132 kW

The new Mazda CX-5 is scheduled to launch in South Africa in August 2026, but Cars.co.za has managed to unearth details of the local line-up ahead of this 3rd-generation model’s official market introduction.

To refresh your memory, the KM-series CX-5 was revealed in July 2025, featuring evolved exterior styling, larger dimensions and extra cabin (and luggage) space. The new CX-5 furthermore gains a completely redesigned interior, including fresh touchscreen options.

So, what do we know about the local line-up? Well, according to our information, the new CX-5 portfolio in South Africa will comprise 4 derivatives at launch. The Japanese brand’s local division will offer its familiar Active, Dynamic and Individual grades, along with a new “Homura” flagship specification:

  • CX-5 2.5 Active 6AT FWD
  • CX-5 2.5 Dynamic 6AT FWD
  • CX-5 2.5 Individual 6AT AWD
  • CX-5 2.5 Homura 6AT AWD

All SA-spec variants will feature a “recalibrated” version of Mazda’s naturally aspirated 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which here generates peak outputs of 132 kW and 240 Nm. A 6-speed automatic transmission will ship standard, with Mazda Southern Africa offering both front- (Active and Dynamic) and all-wheel-drive (Individual and Homura) derivatives.

As a reminder, the outgoing KF-series CX-5 employs a likewise atmospheric 2.0-litre petrol engine offering 121 kW and 213 Nm. That 3-strong line-up (topped by the Carbon Edition) currently has pricing bookends of R570 500 and R688 400. Though Mazda Southern Africa has yet to announce pricing for the new CX-5, our information suggests the range will again start at under R600 000.

We expect the entry-level Active grade to include features like a reverse-view camera, automatic LED headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, a 12.9-inch touchscreen, an 8-speaker sound system, wireless smartphone charging, parking sensors (front and rear), tyre-pressure monitoring, black fabric upholstery, grey 17-inch alloy wheels and an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) package.

Meanwhile, the Dynamic specification will upgrade to faux-leather upholstery (in a black-and-white colour combination), 8-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat (including a memory function), a head-up display (projected onto the windscreen), a memory function for the side mirrors, a powered tailgate, roof rails and black-and-silver 19-inch alloys.

According to our information, the Individual grade will boast black 19-inch rims, black leather upholstery, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, a 360-degree camera system, 6-way power adjustment for the front-passenger seat, front-seat ventilation, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive LED headlamps, an “off-road” driving mode, piano-black exterior trim and a few extra ADAS functions.

Finally, the range-topping Homura trim level will seemingly be set apart by tan-and-black leather upholstery (as pictured here), a 15.5-inch touchscreen system, a hands-free function for the powered tailgate, paddle-shifters, heated seats (front and rear), a heated steering wheel and what Mazda terms a “driver personalisation system”.

We expect the new Mazda CX-5 to be available in South Africa in a choice of 7 exterior paint colours, including the Japanese brand’s signature Soul Crystal Red Metallic. The colour palette will also feature Navy Blue Mica, Rhodium White Metallic, Jet Black Mica, Machine Grey Metallic, Polymetal Grey Metallic and Aerogrey Metallic.

As a reminder, the 2nd-gen CX-5 has been around since 2017 but remains Mazda Southern Africa’s best-selling model. In 2024, for instance, 1 218 units were registered in Mzansi, a figure that increased marginally to 1 242 units in 2025. A further 599 examples were sold locally in the first half of 2026.

Interestingly, the local CX-5 line-up was rationalised from 6 to 3 derivatives back in February 2024, with both the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine (140 kW and 450 Nm) and the 2.5-litre petrol mill (which back then made 143 kW and 258 Nm) removed from the range, leaving only the aforementioned 2.0-litre petrol motor.

Find a used Mazda CX-5 on Cars.co.za!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When will the new 3rd-generation Mazda CX-5 launch in South Africa, and how many variants will be available?

A: The new 3rd-generation (KM-series) Mazda CX-5 is scheduled to launch in South Africa in August 2026. According to Cars.co.za, the local line-up will consist of 4 derivatives across four trim levels: Active (FWD), Dynamic (FWD), Individual (AWD) and a new flagship Homura grade (AWD).

Q: What engine and transmission power the new South African-spec Mazda CX-5?

A: All South African derivatives will feature a recalibrated naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 132 kW and 240 Nm of torque. This unit is paired with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission in either front- or all-wheel-drive configurations.

Q: What key features distinguish the top-spec Homura grade from the rest of the CX-5 range?

A: According to Cars.co.za, the range-topping Homura model is set apart by exclusive tan-and-black leather upholstery, a larger 15.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, hands-free power tailgate operation, steering wheel paddle shifters, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel and Mazda’s driver personalisation system.

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New Nissan X-Trail versus Toyota RAV4 – The battle of the OG compact SUVs

X-Trail versus RAV4 used to count as the compact-SUV comparison in South Africa. Should you still care which one is best in an era of so many Chinese crossovers and SUVs?

X-Trail. Great name but, as with so many of Nissan’s legacy products, it’s been largely forgotten. That’s a pity, because there was a time when the Nissan X-Trail was Toyota’s biggest rival in the mid-size crossover-SUV segment.

Toyota’s RAV4 is one of the world’s best-selling vehicles. In South Africa, it has quietly dominated the mid-size crossover-SUV segment for a long time. Most people know how successful the Fortuner is, but not as many pay attention to the monthly RAV4 sales stats, which are deeply impressive.

There’s a new RAV4 in the market, and it’s the first one with a PHEV powertrain. In response, Nissan has launched the updated version of the 4th generation of its mid-size crossover SUV. And that’s unusual for a Nissan product in South Africa, where followers of the brand have been used to waiting for years after an international model rollout for local availability.

The X-Trail is arguably Nissan’s most important product

The T31 Nissan X-Trail (2007-2014) was renowned for its brilliantly practical luggage compartment.

In the 1st decade of the century, Nissan had an incredible product offering in South Africa. It’s almost unrecognisable from what the brand offers in South Africa today.

In the late 2000s, the Navara was unquestionably the best-looking bakkie on sale in South Africa. The 350Z was a bargain driver’s car, and the GT-R redefined what supercar ownership could be. And then there was the second-generation X-Trail.

Nissan had engineered the X-Trail with good turbodiesel engines and decent all-terrain ability for a non-low-range-enabled vehicle. It had brilliant packaging, too. The X-Trail had a huge load area and lots of clever storage spaces for muddy mountain bikes, trail-running gear, and fishing or adventure equipment.

If you were in the market for a mid-size crossover SUV toward the tail-end of the 2000s, the ideal shortlist featured a RAV4 and X-Trail.

In 2026, Nissan’s South African product portfolio is much smaller, while Toyota remains the most influential car company in South Africa. Every fifth car sold in South Africa is a Toyota, after all. By comparison, Nissan has become a niche brand trying to reinvent itself now that it’s ceased local production after 6 decades. That means the X-Trail has become even more important.

Which brings us to the X-Trail and RAV4 in 2026…

The design is a bit more restrained than the RAV4’s, or those of the Chinese crossover SUVs.

How does the new Nissan X-Trail compare to Toyota’s RAV4? Curiously, the latter now has a much more daring design than the X-Trail, which was never really the case.

From the first-generation X-Trail, Nissan designers pushed the boundaries of design. For example, the original X-Trail had a central instrument stack, which showed Nissan’s confidence at the time.

Compared to similarly priced Chinese crossover SUVs, the latest X-Trail and RAV4 don’t have the same infotainment screen sizes or graphics quality. But they do have more logical ergonomics and a sensible UX, with physical buttons, dials, and controls where people need them.

Search for a Nissan X-Trail on Cars.co.za

Luggage space and payload

The X-Trail’s luggage volume and payload trail the RAV4’s.

Crossover SUVs need to be versatile when it’s weekend-away or vacation time. That means decent luggage capacity and a usable payload rating.

The X-Trail can take 585 litres of luggage, which is sufficient, and leave you with about 480 kg of payload capacity when packing for that big year-end road trip with the family. Those are useful numbers for a crossover SUV of the X-Trail’s size.

However, the Toyota soundly beats it. Offering 688 litres of luggage space, the RAV4 can also take a payload of 500 kg (on the non-hybrid models, mind you).

Search for a new Rav4 on Cars.co.za

How do their engines and prices compare?

Nissan offers the bigger non-hybrid engine option, promising more performance.

The mid-size crossover-SUV segment is where Chinese brands offer incredibly advanced HEV and PHEV powertrains. Even Toyota has had to respond, launching the latest RAV4 with HEV and PHEV powertrain options, but at much higher prices than what is available from brands like Jetour.

Nissan offers just one powertrain on the new X-Trail at launch, a proven 2.5-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine. It’s broadly the same configuration of engine that powers the petrol component of the RAV4 hybrids. Meanwhile, the RAV4 non-hybrid is powered by a smaller 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which is less powerful and torquey than the X-Trail’s.

Nissan’s launch strategy has been impressively targeted, with significant discounts on the new X-Trail compared to previous versions. The entry-level X-Trail is priced at only R599 900. That compares favourably with the RAV4 range starting at R770 500 for the 2.5 GX HEV E-Four.

The most relevant pricing comparison is between Toyota’s mid-grade RAV4 2.0 VX, which costs R799 900, and the spec-equivalent X-Trail 2.5 Acenta at R770 900. The Nissan’s outputs measure 135 kW and 244 Nm versus the Toyota’s 127 kW and 203 Nm. At high altitudes like Gauteng, the X-Trail’s torque advantage should play a noticeable role.

It’s clear these 2 legacy rivals are as close as ever. However, in a market awash with glitzy new rivals offering turbocharged engines and laptop-sized infotainment systems, their jobs to convince potential buyers to sign on the dotted line have become much, much more challenging…

New JAC T9 PHEV to grab title of SA’s most powerful bakkie?

The JAC T9 PHEV looks set to take the title of South Africa’s most powerful bakkie when it finally hits the market, offering more oomph than the BYD Shark 6 Performance…

  • JAC Motors SA lists T9 PHEV as “coming soon”
  • Plug-in hybrid powertrain churns out 360 kW
  • Makes more power than Shark 6 Performance

The long-awaited JAC T9 PHEV looks poised to grab the title of South Africa’s most powerful bakkie when it finally launches in South Africa, out-punching the likes of the BYD Shark 6 Performance and Ford Ranger Raptor – on paper, at least.

Way back in December 2022, the Chinese brand’s local division suggested the T9 PHEV double-cab bakkie would arrive in Mzansi “at the end of 2023”. The company later shifted this targeted launch date to the 2nd quarter of 2025. Though this plug-in hybrid derivative has still yet to materialise, JAC Motors SA’s website now lists it as “coming soon”.

In addition, the website suggests the T9 PHEV will boast peak power of 360 kW (and maximum torque of 674 Nm), markedly higher than the 290 kW figure mentioned in JAC Motors SA’s earlier press material. From what we can tell, the PHEV powertrain comprises a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine (160 kW/370 Nm), a pair of electric motors (one on each axle) and a 31.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack.

As a reminder, the freshly launched BYD Shark 6 Performance currently ranks as SA’s most powerful bakkie, generating 350 kW courtesy of its PHEV powertrain. The Ford Ranger Raptor is next with 292 kW (from a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine), though the upcoming production version of Chery’s KP31 diesel PHEV bakkie (with 350 kW) looks set to beat the Blue Oval contender in the power stakes.

In fellow right-hand-drive market Australia, the T9 PHEV – which measures 5 330 mm long, just like the turbodiesel derivatives available locally – has a listed all-electric range of 100 km (according to the NEDC standard) and a claimed combined range of some 1 005 km. Payload and braked towing capacity in that country come in at 915 kg and 3 500 kg, respectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How much power will the upcoming JAC T9 PHEV produce compared to rival bakkies?

A: According to updated listings from JAC Motors South Africa, the T9 PHEV delivers a peak power output of 360 kW and 674 Nm of torque. This places it ahead of the 350 kW BYD Shark 6 Performance and the 292 kW Ford Ranger Raptor, making it poised to take the title of South Africa’s most powerful bakkie on paper.

Q: What engine and battery set-up powers the JAC T9 PHEV?

A: The T9 PHEV is built around a plug-in hybrid architecture combining a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine (160 kW/370 Nm) with electric motors mounted on the front and rear axles. Electric power is supplied by a 31.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack.

Q: What are the expected driving range and utility capability figures for the T9 PHEV?

A: Based on specifications listed for right-hand-drive markets, the T9 PHEV offers an all-electric driving range of up to 100 km (NEDC) and a total combined range exceeding 1 000 km. For utility work, it maintains full double-cab functionality with a 915 kg payload capacity and a 3 500 kg braked towing rating.

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Toyota’s ‘V35A’ recall in SA: fix requires engine replacement

Toyota’s global recall for the V35A twin-turbo V6 has been expanded in SA, with Land Cruiser 300 and Lexus LX affected. And the fix requires a full engine replacement…

  • Toyota SA issues new recall for V35A engine
  • Land Cruiser 300 and Lexus LX600 affected
  • Recall fix requires a full engine replacement

Toyota South Africa Motors has confirmed to Cars.co.za that its recently announced safety recall campaign for certain Toyota Land Cruiser 300 and Lexus LX600 models (which use the internally designated “V35A” motor) will include a full engine replacement.

Earlier this week, the National Consumer Commission (NCC) released a statement announcing Toyota SA Motors had issued a fresh recall. We asked the Japanese firm’s local division to confirm the campaign and indicate whether the “necessary repairs” mentioned by the NCC involved a full engine replacement.

“Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) confirms that it has launched a safety recall campaign for certain Toyota Land Cruiser 300 and Lexus LX600 models equipped with the V35A 3.4-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine,” the company told Cars.co.za in a statement.

“This campaign is part of a global engine replacement programme affecting vehicles produced from late 2022 through 2024. In South Africa, affected vehicles comprise of 507 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 units and 124 Lexus LX600 units,” the company confirmed.

As a reminder, this V6 engine – which is still available in the Land Cruiser 300 range (alongside a 3.3-litre turbodiesel mill) but no longer in the LX line-up (which instead now features the hybrid LX700h and the aforementioned oil-burning unit) – generates 305 kW and 650 Nm in SA-spec guise.

V35A engine replacement ‘a precaution’

According to Toyota, during the manufacture of affected V35A powerplants, “small metal particles may have remained inside the engine in certain vehicles”. Over time, these particles “could cause excessive wear of internal engine components, potentially resulting in engine knocking, rough running, difficulty starting, or in rare cases, engine stalling”.

“If the engine stalls while driving, the vehicle could lose power, increasing the risk of an accident. As a precaution, Toyota and Lexus will replace the engine in affected vehicles at no cost to customers. Owners of affected vehicles are being contacted directly and requested to arrange an appointment with their nearest Toyota or Lexus dealer,” Toyota SA Motors told us.

“Toyota and Lexus remain committed to the highest standards of Quality, Durability and Reliability. The safety and satisfaction of our customers remain our highest priority and we are working closely with our dealer network to ensure the campaign is completed as efficiently and conveniently as possible,” the firm said.

The Japanese automaker added that customers with any questions were welcome to contact the Toyota Customer Contact Centre (0800 139 111 or [email protected]) or the Lexus Customer Assistance Centre (0800 220 000 or  [email protected]). Any local Toyota or Lexus dealership could also be approached for assistance.

What exactly does the V35A issue involve?

The NCC’s statement said the issue centred on potential damage to the turbopetrol V6’s crankshaft main bearings, caused by engine machining debris that “may not have been completely removed during manufacturing”. If said debris “adheres to the main bearings and the engine continues to operate under higher loads over time, the bearings may fail”, according to the NCC’s statement.

In August 2025, the NCC announced that 34 units of the LX600 had been recalled for the same reason. According to various international reports, at least 270 000 vehicles worldwide have thus been included in this broader recall, which has rolled out in waves across various markets. In North America, the Tundra – which uses the very same V35A engine – is seemingly at the centre of the campaign.

In May 2026, Toyota Motor North America issued its 3rd recall for Tundra models powered by this engine, following earlier campaigns announced in May 2024 and November 2025. The engines involved in this latest recall were produced using what Toyota termed “additional controls for removing manufacturing debris”.

“We have found that, even after these additional controls, the remaining debris could be sufficient to cause damage to the #1 main bearing and lead to this issue. Engines produced after those included in this recall were manufactured with an improved #1 main bearing to help resist certain debris that might remain,” Toyota Motor North America said.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Which vehicles are affected by the V35A engine recall in South Africa, and what is the fix?

A: The safety recall campaign affects 507 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 units and 124 Lexus LX600 units equipped with the 3.4-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine (“V35A”) produced between late 2022 and 2024. As a precautionary measure, Toyota and Lexus will perform a complete engine replacement at no cost to the customer.

Q: What is the cause of the V35A engine failure issue?

A: Toyota says the recall stems from machining debris and small metal particles that were not completely removed during the engine manufacturing process. Over time, these particles can adhere to the crankshaft main bearings (particularly the #1 main bearing), causing excessive component wear that may lead to engine knocking, rough running, power loss or sudden stalling while driving.

Q: How can affected South African owners arrange their engine replacement?

A: Toyota South Africa Motors is directly contacting owners of affected vehicles to schedule an appointment with their nearest dealer. Customers seeking further information or confirmation can contact the Toyota Customer Contact Centre (0800 139 111/[email protected]) or the Lexus Customer Assistance Centre (0800 220 000/[email protected]).

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How does Ford’s new Ranger Super Duty compare to the never-say-die Land Cruiser 79?

Everyone knows about the Ranger-versus-Hilux battle. But there is a much bigger bakkie comparison loading (bigger in more ways than one, in fact)… Cue the upcoming Ford Ranger Super Duty taking on Toyota’s Land Cruiser 79.

Local demand for luxury and high-performance bakkies keeps on growing. South Africans love bakkies. Many double-cab owners are people who would have bought a German luxury sedan or a high-performance hatchback a decade ago.

That market shift has meant that whatever bakkie product planning teams imagine usually gets approved. The result? An amazing diversity of bakkie models.

In the late 2000s, nobody could have imagined something like a Ranger Raptor, a Hilux GR-S or Chinese double-cab bakkies with more luxury features than a C-Class.

Of course, there are those buyers who still need a hardcore commercial bakkie. Their choice will soon become a lot harder when Ford launches the Ranger Super Duty. But first, let’s spotlight the original (and most revered) working bakkie.

All those farmers can’t be wrong

Land Cruiser body panels
Heavy-duty steel body stampings. Built to last for decades, not years.

There’s a blindspot in the bakkie development story – many of the newer luxury and high-performance double cabs sacrifice payload for comfort and stability. It’s a worthwhile sacrifice for double-cab owners who live in urban security estates to make, as they never really tax their bakkies’ load capacity. But it’s a problem for hardcore commercial bakkie buyers.

If your bakkie is engineered to carry more than 1 000 kg on the back, the worse its ride quality and handling will be. That’s why a Ranger Raptor, with some of the most sophisticated suspension ever fitted to a bakkie and amazing all-terrain handling dynamics, has a payload of just 670 kg… When engineers reduce the load capacity of a double-cab bakkie, they can enhance its ride quality by making the suspension more supple.

Somewhat ironically, bakkies with the best load-carrying ability and durability are often the least comfortable to drive. The Toyota Land Cruiser 79 single- and double-cab bakkies have asymmetric front-to-rear axle widths, truly terrible ride quality, poor brakes, and generally awful on-road handling. But the aged design is also robust, with an overbuilt steel ladder frame platform that can handle heavy loads.

If you’re a farmer who doesn’t want to do two journeys to town to get agri-chemicals or feed, you really value payload. And that’s why the Land Cruiser 79 bakkie is so popular among South African farmers: it has a higher functional payload than almost any other bakkie on sale. (Not to mention its popularity is also thanks to its renowned reliability and Toyota’s famed aftersales service.)

Search for a Land Cruiser 79 on Cars.co.za

Ford will target the Land Cruiser 79 market with the Ranger Super Duty

Land Cruiser cabin
The Land Cruiser 70 has HVAC controls from the 1990s. But nobody seems to mind.

Ford knows that Toyota’s Land Cruiser 79 has the valuable farm and mining bakkie market nearly all to itself. But, if you look at the 79 series’, ahem, robust pricing, it’s a market ready for creative disruption. If farmers and mining companies are willing to pay R1m-plus for 1990s bakkie technology, surely there’s scope for a more modern, yet equally capable, newcomer to disrupt the market?

With the Ranger Super Duty, Ford believes it’s created just that bakkie.

Search for a Land Cruiser 79 on Cars.co.za

Do farmers want comfort? Yes, they do

Super Duty cabin
The Super Duty cabin is much comfier, more modern and less fatiguing for long-distance dirt-road driving.

The Ranger Super Duty is an upgrade of the current Ranger T6.1 underpinnings, which is one of the most modern and comfortable bakkie platforms in production.

That means the Super Duty has a modern cabin with comfortable seating, proper ergonomics, sound deadening and vibration damping. Those comfort features make a huge difference when journeying long distances on demanding dirt roads.

The Land Cruiser 79 is a tough vehicle, and for expedition overlanding beyond South Africa’s borders, its simple mechanics and proven toughness serve a purpose. But it’s fatiguing vehicle to drive on both gravel and tar for more than an hour or 2, especially if you use it for work purposes day in and day out.

That’s where the Super Duty is vastly superior to the Land Cruiser 79.

Super Duty by name … and purpose

When was the last time you saw 8-stud hubs on a bakkie?  

No brand has ever successfully challenged the 79. Nissan tried with the Patrol bakkie, but it was very niche in South Africa. With the Super Duty, Ford has invested in upgrading the features that really matter, creating a Land Cruiser 79 rival that is superior in nearly every technical benchmark.

The Super Duty chassis is much stronger than the Land Cruiser 79’s. Everything that matters has been upgraded to commercial-vehicle spec, like the wheels.

For hardcore 4×4 driving and work vehicles, steel wheels matter. When you’re operating a bakkie at peak load on corrugated dirt roads, or driving into town on a rural tar road with potholes, a fully loaded bakkie hitting a pothole can easily suffer a damaged alloy wheel.

Some models in the Land Cruiser 79 range have steel wheels, as does the Super Duty. But the Super Duty features an 8-stud hub. If you’ve ever glanced sideways in traffic when an 18-wheeler truck rig is next to you, you’ll notice how many bolts secure a wheel. More bolts mean better load distribution (most bakkies feature 6 studs).

It’s clear the Super Duty has been engineered to carry its maximum payload with confidence, even on the harshest South African corrugated dirt roads.

There’s no arguing with the numbers

Super Duty cross axle
Raptor-like toughness, without the speed. Standard 33-inch tyres mean lots of traction.

If you need a bakkie to (legally) carry a lot of stuff and tow oversized trailers, the Super Duty is significantly superior to the Land Cruiser 79.

The single-cab Land Cruiser 79 is available with three engine options, and because all three engines weigh differently, it has slight differences in payload capacity. The Land Cruiser 79 with the best payload capacity is the 4.0 V6 petrol, which is rated at 1 185 kg. Ford’s Ranger Super Duty single cab has a payload rating of 1 982 kg!

There’s a lot of discussion in the local motoring market about payload at the moment. The popularity of crossover SUVs has lulled buyers into a false sense of security about how much they can actually take on a road trip.

For farmers and commercial bakkie buyers, payload matters. When you need to take equipment into isolated, hard-to-reach places where only a hardcore 4×4 bakkie can operate, you don’t want to make 2 journeys when a single will do. With the Ranger Super Duty, Ford has created a solution that’s literally twice as good as the established market leader at moving what’s needed to places where it’s difficult to get to.

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Towing ability: Super Duty versus Land Cruiser

Massive payload and towing capacity, but you’ll need to upgrade from a Code B driving licence.

Towing is another area where the Land Cruiser 79 single cab has earned its keep among the farming community. It has a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg, which is impressive. However, that figure is soundly trumped by the Super Duty’s gargantuan 4 500 kg…

The Ford also has trailer sway control (TSC) programmed into its ESP system. This is a huge help if your heavy trailer starts yawing in a crosswind or rolls over highway surface imperfections at speed while going downhill. The Land Cruiser 79? Don’t expect TSC, or even stability control on some derivatives.

Surely the Super Duty isn’t perfect?

Super Duty towing
Farmers will love the 180-litre diesel capacity, but they might not love the AdBlue admin.

Ford’s engineers have over-developed the Super Duty’s chassis, suspension and wheel hubs. There’s no arguing how well it is configured to carry more load than a Land Cruiser 79. But, when a vehicle has a total CGM of 8 000 kg, strong engine outputs become a crucial requirement.

There’s just no getting over the power-to-weight reality of carrying and hauling all that mass. The Super Duty is powered by a detuned version of Ford’s 3.0 V6 turbodiesel. It’s a proven engine, but 154 kW divided by 8 000 kg equals a power-to-weight ratio of just 19.25 kW/ton. That’s half of what you’d have in a Hyundai i10. And that means you really need to think about maintaining momentum on long, steepening gradients when driving a Ford Super Duty that is fully loaded (the 600 Nm of torque will help, however).

There are also a couple of operational issues with the Super Duty. Because of its amazing load capacities, you can’t drive one with a standard driver’s licence. That might not be an issue for Ford’s South African target market, which is mostly farmers, because most farmers have licences to operate trucks, too.

What might be less appealing for farmers is that the Ranger Super Duty’s diesel engine needs AdBlue. That’s an additional top-up and maintenance admin that some farmers might just find annoying.

Ultimately, however, having to top up an AdBlue tank every now and then seems like a paltry consideration when so much counts in the Super Duty’s favour. We can’t wait to see how commercial buyers and farmers respond to Ford’s answer to the venerable Land Cruiser 79.

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Jetour T2 PHEV (2026) Review

The Jetour T2 range has taken the market by storm. To capitalise on this success, the Chinese brand expanded its lineup with a PHEV derivative. Does adding an electric motor and battery pack make this the best Jetour T2 to buy, or should prospective owners stick with the established petrol variants?

We like: T2 PHEV has smooth, immediate low-speed throttle response; significantly improved fuel efficiency over petrol-only models; eye-catching exterior styling and generous standard specification.

We don’t like: Abrupt energy regeneration transition when lifting off the accelerator; front-wheel drive layout instead of all-wheel drive; uncommunicative steering feel with dead-centre play; premium price tag compared to the 2.0-litre AWD model.

FAST FACTS

  • Model: Jetour T2 1.5T i-DM PHEV
  • Price: R779 900
  • Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol + electric motor
  • Transmission: automatic
  • Power/Torque: 265 kW/610 Nm
  • 0-100 kph: 8.50 seconds (tested)
  • Fuel consumption: 1.3 L/100 km (claimed) / 6.0 L/100 km (tested)
  • Range: 90 litres (electric)/1 200 km total (claimed)
  • Luggage capacity: 580-1 494 litres

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Read more: Jetour T1 and T2 i-DM PHEV (2026) Price & Specs

Where does the Jetour T2 PHEV fit in?

The Jetour T2 PHEV represents the tech flagship of Jetour’s local family adventure vehicle line-up. Distinguishing itself from its pure combustion siblings, the Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) features dual fuel flaps (one for petrol and one for charging), subtle rear badging and hybrid motifs along the body sides.

Unlike the standard all-wheel-drive T2 petrol models, the PHEV derivative directs its combined outputs exclusively to the front wheels. Due to the packaging requirements of the 18 kWh battery mounted underneath the floor, ground clearance drops slightly from over 200 mm on standard variants down to 190 mm on the hybrid.

Read more: Jetour T1 and T2: what are the key differences?

How the Jetour T2 PHEV fares in terms of…

Design & Packaging

Inside, the PHEV retains the bold, modern design layout found in the rest of the T2 stable. Dominating the dashboard is a massive infotainment screen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, alongside specific energy flow displays to monitor battery usage and regeneration.

Standard equipment remains generous, including ventilated front seats and adaptive cruise control.

Practicality is equally well addressed, with the rear cargo area easily accommodating daily luggage requirements and retaining practical details such as the tailgate-mounted bottle opener.

Performance & Efficiency

Under the bonnet sits a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine coupled with an electric motor to generate a substantial 265 kW and 610 Nm of torque. On paper, these figures promise rapid performance, yet real-world testing yielded a middling 0 to 100 kph sprint time of 8.5 seconds. Considering the substantial power and torque outputs, we expected the T2 PHEV to be a lot quicker…

Where the hybrid system genuinely shines is driving refinement at low speeds. Pure petrol vehicles from emerging brands often suffer from hesitant or erratic throttle calibration. The addition of instant electric torque eliminates this lag, delivering a progressive and smooth pull-away experience.

In terms of real-world efficiency, the T2 PHEV easily beats its petrol-only counterparts. While the official claim of 1.3 L/100 km remains absolutely unrealistic in everyday driving, real-world testing over mixed routes yielded average consumption figures between 5.7 and 6.0 L/100 km.

Ride, Handling & Comfort

The T2 PHEV‘s powertrain displays some unrefined behaviour when transitioning between power delivery and energy harvesting under deceleration. Lifting off the accelerator pedal induces a sudden drop in momentum as regenerative braking engages.

Furthermore, the steering calibration leaves room for improvement, featuring noticeable play around the centre position before front-wheel directional changes occur.

On smoother tarmac roads, the suspension delivers a comfortable ride, but sharp ruts and uneven surfaces quickly highlight a somewhat stiff setup necessary to support the additional battery weight.

Price & After-sales support

The Jetour T2 1.5T i-DM PHEV sits at the top of the T2 pricing hierarchy, coming in at a premium over its standard 2.0-litre all-wheel-drive petrol counterpart. Included in the purchase price is Jetour’s standard 7-year/200 000 km warranty and 7-year/75 000 km service plan package. The PHEV has an additional 8-year/160 000 km warranty specifically for the battery array.

Jetour T2 1.5T AspireR569 900
Jetour T2 2.0T Xplora XWDR639 900
Jetour T2 2.0T Odyssey XWDR679 900
Jetour T2 2.0T Odyssey XWDR704 900
Jetour T2 1.5T i-DM PHEVR779 900
Pricing correct as of July 2026.

Read more: Will Jetour’s SA-built T2 be better – or cheaper?

Verdict

The Jetour T2 PHEV brings notable efficiency gains and smoother urban power delivery to an already popular package. However, its front-wheel-drive configuration, reduced ground clearance, and higher asking price present clear trade-offs when weighed against the rest of the local lineup.

Watch our detailed video review above to see the full performance testing and real-world evaluation.

Read more: Crossover SUVs have a weight problem and no one’s talking about it…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What powertrain does the Jetour T2 1.5T i-DM PHEV use and what are its combined outputs?

A: The PHEV pairs a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor to generate a combined system output of 265 kW and 610 Nm of torque.

Q: How does the Jetour T2 PHEV’s drivetrain and layout differ from the standard petrol models?

A: Unlike the standard all-wheel-drive T2 petrol models, the PHEV directs its power exclusively to the front wheels and features a slightly reduced ground clearance of 190 mm due to the packaging of its 18 kWh battery.

Q: What is the retail price of the Jetour T2 1.5T i-DM PHEV in South Africa?

A: The Jetour T2 1.5T i-DM PHEV is priced at R779 900 (pricing correct as of July 2026).

Renault Trafic (2026) Price & Specs

The Renault Trafic is back in South Africa after a hiatus. Here are specifications and pricing for the latest version of the French van.

There’s something practical and sensible about a van, and given the recent arrivals from Volkswagen and Ford, Renault has launched the latest version of its Trafic. Customers have the choice of five colours and three trim levels. There’s up to 6 000 litres of loading space and the modular configurability means you have up to 9 seats.

Powertrain

When it comes to engine and transmission, Renault has opted for the 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel and a 9-speed automatic transmission. Outputs of 125 kW and 380 Nm are claimed.

Trim Levels

Evolution

  • Height-adjustable driver seat with armrest
  • Rear camera
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Alarm
  • Cruise control
  • Manual ACV (Front + rear)
  • Power adjustable mirrors
  • Luggage compartment cover
  • Left & Right side sliding doors
  • Driver + passenger airbags
  • Side & curtain airbags front
  • Auto lights
  • Leather steering wheel
  • 16-inch wheel covers

Evolution+

  • Leather seats
  • 16-inch alloy wheels

Techno+

  • Fog lights
  • Front parking sensors
  • Auto folding mirrors
  • Auto wipers
  • Smart keyless entry, ignition
  • Auto dimming rearview mirrors
  • Leather seats
  • Heated front seats
  • Luggage net
  • Wireless smartphone charging
  • 16-inch alloy wheels

How much does the Renault Trafic cost in South Africa?

The Renault Trafic ships with a 5-year/90 000 km service plan and a 5-year/150 000 km warranty. There’s also 24-hour roadside assistance.

Renault Trafic 2.0 dCi EvolutionR979 999
Renault Trafic 2.0 dCi Evolution+R1 016 999
Renault Trafic 2.0 dCi Techno+R1 049 999
All pricing correct as of July 2026.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What body variants of the Renault Trafic are available in South Africa?

The Renault Trafic range in South Africa is offered in two distinct body configurations: a commercial 3-seater Panel Van tailored for business load-carrying and the 9-seater Trafic Passenger people-mover designed for executive shuttle and family transport needs.

What engine and transmission power the Renault Trafic range?

Both the Panel Van and Passenger variants are powered by a 2.0-litre dCi turbocharged diesel engine producing 125 kW of power and 380 Nm of torque. The Panel Van transfers power via a 6-speed manual transmission, whereas the Trafic Passenger range features a 9-speed automatic transmission.

What loading capacity does the Renault Trafic Panel Van offer?

The Renault Trafic Panel Van delivers up to 8.9 m³ of loading volume, a payload capacity of up to 1,279 kg, and a towing capacity of 2,500 kg. Thanks to its under-seat hatch system, it can accommodate long cargo up to a record 4.15 metres in length.

What is the pricing for the Renault Trafic in South Africa?

The commercial Renault Trafic Panel Van is priced from R611,999 to R635,999 (depending on media and camera specifications). The premium 9-seater Trafic Passenger lineup ranges from R979,999 to R1,049,999 depending on the chosen trim (Evolution, Evolution+, or Techno+).

What warranty and service plan come standard with the Renault Trafic?

All Renault Trafic models in South Africa come standard with a 5-year / 150,000 km mechanical warranty alongside a 5-year / 90,000 km service plan, with service intervals set every 15,000 km.

243 supercars, one goal: The record-breaking Supercar Rhino Run

South Africa just set the Guinness World Record for the most supercars at a single gathering. Here’s what went down at this year’s Supercar Rhino Run.

On Sunday, 19 July 2026, the quiet morning air across Johannesburg was shattered by the collective roar of hundreds of high-performance, ear-tingling engines. The occasion was the 2026 Supercar Rhino Run, an ambitious gathering that set out to blend high-octane motoring passion with serious conservation efforts.

Beginning with an early-morning assembly at FNB Stadium, a massive convoy of exotic machinery made its way under Metro Police escort towards Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit.

Breaking the world record at Kyalami

Supercar Rhino Run
Supercars had to be verified by an official adjudicator.

While the gathering of exotic cars is always an impressive sight, this event was built around an official challenge: setting a new Guinness World Record for the largest display of supercars in a single location.

The existing record stood at 179 vehicles, established in 2024 at Angkor Wat in Cambodia (specifically for the most supercars gathered at a World Heritage Site). Meeting the strict criteria set by Guinness World Records required painstaking verification. Official adjudicator Mbali Nkosi, supported by dedicated counting teams on the ground, audited every single car parked four-abreast along the Kyalami straight. Standard sports cars and tuned saloons were strictly excluded from the tally to maintain compliance with the official category definitions.

When the final count was verified, the target wasn’t just met; it was thoroughly reset. A total of 243 verified supercars were officially recorded on the tarmac, setting a brand-new Guinness World Record right here on South African soil.

From mid-engined V10s and twin-turbo V8s to rare hypercars, the sheer density of machinery on track was unlike anything previously staged in Africa.

The purpose behind the performance

The event is focused on raising funds for rhino preservation.

Despite the spectacle on the circuit, the gathering was never intended as a mere flex of automotive wealth. Organised by the Ferris Hope Foundation on behalf of Rhino Connect, the primary objective was driving tangible support to anti-poaching initiatives and wildlife rehabilitation.

Poaching continues to devastate South Africa’s rhino populations, frequently leaving young calves orphaned. These calves require intensive, round-the-clock veterinary care, specialised milk formulas, and long-term rehabilitation before they can ever be safely re-released into protected reserves.

By leveraging the global appeal of a record-breaking supercar gathering, the event generated significant donations, litres of essential milk formula, and international media coverage for Rhino Connect’s ongoing rescue operations. As event founder Tommy Roes noted on the day, the world record serves as the spotlight, but saving the animals remains the actual work.

Catch the full video coverage tomorrow

Kriya Gangiah will be presenting the Youtube video tomorrow.

If you missed the noise and drama at Kyalami, we have you covered. SuperSport presenter Kriya Gangiah was on the ground tracking the convoy, inspecting the paddock, and capturing the moment the record was officially confirmed.

Her full video feature for Cars.co.za drops on our YouTube channel tomorrow. Make sure you are subscribed so you don’t miss the close-up walk-arounds and raw exhaust audio from South Africa’s biggest exotic car gathering to date.

Nissan X-Trail (2026) Price & Specs

The facelifted Nissan X-Trail has just launched in South Africa. Here’s a look at what’s changed, plus what’s on offer in terms of specifications.

The updated Nissan X-Trail has hit South African showrooms and the Japanese brand is claiming that it is its “most advanced, most refined and most luxurious Nissan X-Trail range to date”.

The Nissan X-Trail has some legacy, with around 50 000 units sold in South Africa over a few generations. Globally, more than 8 million have been shipped.

The facelifted model gains a visual update in the form of a new-look front bumper and grille. There are new alloy wheel designs ranging from 17 inches to 19-inch items on the flagship derivative. The headlights and taillamps have both received a subtle update.

Under the skin, Nissan claims to have enhanced the underpinnings and manufacturing processes with the goal of a smoother and more refined driving experience.

Derivatives

Visia

  • LED front and rear lights with high-beam assist
  • Follow me home lights
  • Multi-function steering wheel
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • Wireless device charging
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • 12.3-inch infotainment screen
  • Keyless access
  • Sliding second row bench
  • 8-point around view monitor
  • ADAS Suite: Hill Start Assist, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Intelligent Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Emergency Braking and Trailer Stability Control.
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Reverse camera

Acenta

  • Dual-zone climate control
  • Digital instrument cluster
  • Heated seats
  • Tyre pressure sensors
  • Nissan ProPilot assisted driving
  • Front parking sensors

Acenta+

  • Digital head-up display
  • Terrain mode selector with Mud, Snow, Sand
  • Descent Control
  • 7 Seats

Powertrain, performance & efficiency

All 3 facelifted Nissan X-Trail derivatives feature the naturally aspirated 135 kW/244 Nm 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol powerplant. Power goes to the front wheels via a new-generation CVT. Nissan is claiming a fuel consumption figure of 7.4 L/100 km and the vehicle has a tank capacity of 55 litres. The vehicle has three driving modes: Eco, Normal and Sport.

How much does the facelifted Nissan X-Trail cost in South Africa?

The facelifted Nissan X-Trail ships with a 3-year/90 000 km service plan and a mechanical warranty of 6 years/150 000 km.

X-Trail 2.5 VisiaR599 900
X-Trail 2.5 AcentaR688 900
X-Trail 2.5 Acenta+R770 900

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What updates have been made to the exterior of the facelifted Nissan X-Trail?

A: The facelifted model gains a new-look front bumper and grille, subtle updates to both the headlights and taillamps, and new alloy wheel designs ranging from 17 inches up to 19-inch items on the flagship derivative.

Q: What powertrain is featured across all derivatives of the facelifted Nissan X-Trail in South Africa?

A: All three derivatives feature a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 135 kW and 244 Nm, paired with a new-generation CVT routing power to the front wheels.

Q: What warranty and service plan are included with the facelifted Nissan X-Trail?

A: The vehicle ships with a 3-year/90 000 km service plan and a mechanical warranty of 6 years/150 000 km.