The facelifted Mazda BT-50 bakkie has been revealed, though with this nameplate having been discontinued in SA earlier in 2024, we won’t see it on local roads…
In March 2024, Cars.co.zabroke the news that the Mazda BT-50 nameplate had been discontinued in South Africa after an 18-year run. Now, the facelifted version of the Japanese firm’s bakkie has been revealed overseas.
Of course, since the BT-50 is no longer a part of Mazda Southern Africa’s line-up – with the automaker’s local division having cited an “extremely challenging landscape for imported vehicles” and a struggle to compete directly with locally manufactured products, such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger and Isuzu D-Max – this facelifted model won’t be seen in Mzansi.
So, what are we missing out on? Well, styling changes on the double-cab bakkie include a refreshed front end, which sports a new lighting signature for the LED headlamps as well as a redesigned grille and bumper (the latter now incorporating an “air curtain”). Around back, the tailgate gains a ridge along its bottom edge, while new LED taillamps and a larger “Mazda” logo have been adopted.
The facelifted BT-50 furthermore scores redesigned alloy wheels, while 3 fresh paint colours – Red Earth Metallic, Geode White Pearl and Sailing Blue Metallic – have been added to the colour palette. The cabin upgrades to what Mazda calls a “completely new infotainment system” presented within a “responsive central touchscreen interface that now integrates touch switches below the display for better usability and visibility”.
The largest available touchscreen measures 9 inches in diameter, while physical volume and tuning dials are positioned on either side of the screen. There’s also a new 7-inch instrument cluster. In addition, the refreshed bakkie now features USB-C sockets, as well as the integration of wireless Android Auto (to join its existing wireless Apple CarPlay functionality).
Meanwhile, the interior door trim, console lid and dashboard trim benefit from what Mazda calls “subtle yet effective” material updates, including a move from brown to black leather for some grades. The list of driver-assistance systems has been bolstered, too, with the BT-50 now featuring front stereo cameras, traffic jam assist, rear cross traffic brake and intelligent adaptive cruise control.
Moreover, the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system gains motorcycle detection and pedestrian detection at intersections. The digital reverse-view camera scores a hydrophobic coating, while dynamic guidelines have been added to the display and a new USB port positioned near the rearview mirror.
As a reminder, the pre-facelift BT-50 range in South Africa had comprised 4 double-cab derivatives, last priced from R630 400 and running through to R818 400. The line-up kicked off with a pair of 4×2 Active variants using a 1.9-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (110 kW and 350 Nm), and available in either 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic guise.
There was also a 3.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (producing 140 kW and 450 Nm), offered in either 4×2 Dynamic or 4×4 Individual form but exclusively with a 6-speed self-shifting transmission in either case. The SA-spec BT-50 had been imported from Thailand, where it was produced by Isuzu (and based on the latest-generation D-Max). Though the TF-series BT-50 was revealed in mid-2020, it touched down in Mzansi only in July 2021.
After 5 months of fuel price cuts, the table has now turned with the first fuel price increase since May 2024 now in the crosshairs for November 2024. This outlook is based on unaudited mid-month fuel price data released by the Central Energy Fund (CEF). Take a look at the fuel price forecast below!
The recent spate of welcome fuel price reductions is nearing its end as the latest fuel price data suggests that price increases for petrol and diesel can be expected in November 2024.
This comes as international oil product prices increased during the month of October 2024 in conjunction with the Rand-Dollar exchange rate starting to level off.
The Automobile Association (AA) commented, “Lower stable fuel prices play a crucial role in the decrease of inflation, and in lowering of the prices of goods and services. It would greatly benefit our economy if the fuel price decrease trajectory continued for longer but the expectant increase, though marginal at this stage, comes at a time when most consumers and motorists are still struggling financially and any increase now will add pressure on them,” notes the AA.
At the mid-month mark, the data shows the potential for 20 c/l increase for 95-grade petrol while an 8 c/l increase for 93-grade petrol could materialise.
Diesel 0.05% could see an increase of 17 c/l while the price of 0.005% diesel might see an increase of 15 c/l come November 2024.
Geo-political tensions in the Middle East are creating an air of global uncertainty as conflict between Israel and Iran continues to escalate. The impact of a broader war can impact negatively on oil production, resulting in higher fuel prices in the short to medium term.
“Due to the tensions which are ramping up in the Middle East, the local currency could be under significant pressure going into the last two weeks of October and this could have a more significant impact on local fuel prices in November. At this stage it is important to keep an eye on that indicator as we head into the new month,” says the Automobile Association (AA).
Fuel price forecast for South Africa – November 2024
Fuel Type
Oct’ 24 Inland
Oct’ 24 Coast
Nov’ 24 Inland*
Nov’ 24 Coast*
Petrol Unleaded 93
R20.73
R19.94
R20.81
R20.02
Petrol Unleaded 95
R21.05
R20.26
R21.25
R20.46
Diesel 0.05%
R18.45
R17.66
R18.62
R17.83
Diesel 0.005%
R18.57
R17.81
R18.72
R17.96
*November 2024 figures are forecast figures and not official
The 39 finalists of the 2024/25 Cars.co.za Awards – sponsored by Absa, have been announced. The 13 category winners of the 2025 CarsAwards will be selected from these vehicles, each of which will be tested intensively at Gerotek in early November.
The 2025 CarsAwards (or #CarsAwards, on social media) marks the 8th iteration of South Africa’s most comprehensive and authoritative motoring awards programme that annually recognises the best purchasing propositions in 13 respective segments of the local new-vehicle market.
What’s more, like the preceding (2023/24) iteration of the programme, the 2024/25 Cars.co.za Awards – sponsored by Absa is sponsored by Absa and endorsed by the Automotive Business Council of South Africa (the motor industry body formerly known as the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa), which organised the SA Autoweek event that took place in Cape Town this week.
The 39 finalist vehicles (3 per category) were selected by the extended Cars.co.za editorial team from a list of 65 semi-finalists. Team members evaluated the semi-finalists individually, based on the categories’ respective “Filters of Eligibility” and “Pillars of Success”. See also:2025 CarsAwards: The Semi-Finalists
Unlike other automotive awards programmes, all models and derivatives available on the South African new-vehicle market on September 1, 2024 were eligible for the 2024/25 Cars.co.za Awards – sponsored by Absa not only new products launched during the past 12 months.
However, to ensure that the 2025 CarsAwards best represents the local new-car market when the winners are announced in early next year, 3 models that were launched and made available for evaluation between September 1, 2024 and the time of finalist selection were included as wildcards.
As with the 2023/24 CarsAwards programme, Toyota and BMW have the most finalists with 5 contenders each (or 7 each, if you count Lexus and Mini with their respective parent brands). Ford, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Suzuki and Volkswagen are in joint third place with 3 finalists each.
Eighteen car brands are represented in the finalist list of the 2024/25 Cars.co.za Awards – sponsored by Absa. This 2025 CarsAwards is further distinguished by the fact that models from Ineos Automotive and Mahindra have progressed to the final stage of the awards programme for the first time.
During the next phase of the 2024/25 Cars.co.za Awards – sponsored by Absa each of the 39 finalists (3 per category) will be subjected to back-to-back testing at the renowned Gerotek proving ground in Gauteng by the combined judging panel (the Cars.co.za editorial team members and respected guest judges from various backgrounds and fields of expertise) on 4 and 5 November 2024.
As with previous iterations of the CarsAwards, the 19 judges’ scores for each of the 39 finalists will only count for 50% of the final standings. The other 50% will be based on rankings that the finalist vehicles’ respective brands achieved in the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey.
The data incorporates feedback from thousands of vehicle owners, based on their experiences of their vehicles (less than four years old and serviced through franchised outlets).
The winners of the 2024/25 Cars.co.za Awards – sponsored by Absa will be announced at a gala event in Gauteng in February 2025. The event will be complemented by a Cars.co.za Roadshow at the Mall of Africa, where consumers will be able to see the finalist vehicles (and even purchase them), interact with judges and have interactive #CarsAwards experiences.
Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR tribute: Classic Drive
The Martini Racing Carrera RSR 2.1 Turbo boasted the largest wing and widest hips of any Porsche 911 when it was raced back in the early 1970s. We experience what it must have been like to drive by getting behind the ‘wheel of a local tribute car.
IMAGES: Duwyne Aspeling
I’m ensconced in the Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR 2.1 Turbo tribute car’s Racetech racing seat with my legs almost parallel to the floor. I can hear road debris hitting the car’s undercarriage and I have to shout to talk to my passenger, the owner of the car. I’m intimidated, but immensely excited nonetheless.
In front of me is a plastic windscreen (a weight-saving measure), while the cabin is stripped out with only the necessary buttons and switches you associate with a race car. Above the windscreen, down the A-pillar and to my right, the silver tubes of the full roll cage leave no doubt that this is a pukka 911 race car.
With a quick glance in the rear-view mirror – as I won’t need it again on this drive! – I observe one of the largest wings in Porsche’s racing history. As I peer into the side view mirrors, the massive, widened rear arches and end tips of the rear wing come into view.
This car fills the road with its size and presence unlike any air-cooled Porsche 911 I’ve ever driven. I need to feed in enough throttle to stop the car from stalling but also let the racing clutch out as quickly as possible because any unnecessary slippage will damage it.
The steering wheel conveys oodles of feedback; it goes light for only a brief moment before it stiffens up again and gives your arms a proper workout.
The Martini Racing 911 RSR tribute car’s G50 gearbox allows for quick and direct shifts, while the long metal gear lever and gear knob (with the very industrial-looking linkage system below) contributes to the solid shift action every time I change gear; it helps to ensure that you never miss a gear when shifting.
The Martini Racing 911 RSR tribute car is not happy when driven at anything less than full speed. There is a cacophony of mechanical sounds that emanates from the drivetrain in the rear of the car, while the smallest of throttle applications prompt a blowing and hissing sound from the turbocharged system.
If I briefly close my eyes, the experience is not far removed from that of the 993 GT2 Clubsport I experienced a couple of years ago. These mechanical sounds are so intense, that you also want to pull over and switch off the car, because it almost sounds as if there is no lubricant in the transmission!
As I press the accelerator pedal harder, and following a minor delay as the turbo gets up to speed, the Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR tribute car positively surges towards the next corner with a rush of a modern-day supercar, only with much more noise, feedback and excitement.
Through the steering wheel, it is easy to experience how the front wheels sniff out any changes in the road camber and dive into bends like only a race car can. I realise that you need all your mental focus (and rather talented feet and hands) to get the most from this car.
Below 3 000 rpm nothing happens, but as I press on I can hear – and feel – how the tyres barely cope with the levels of torque, which are twisted through them as the full force of the engine presents itself with astonishing efficiency. It is a unique physiological experience; it feels as if the push is coming not only from behind you, but as if you are being shoved by something through your lower back.
And, it feels as if every ounce of the power and torque is on tap… if not more. Here, on this mountain pass, this Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR tribute car feels like it will obliterate anything before it. Maybe it is a good thing that there are almost no other vehicles on this road.
On a public road, rolling on wet-weather racing tyres no less, full-bore acceleration upon corner exits is not on the cards, but between my time behind the ‘wheel as well as during a stint in the passenger seat while the owner, who races this car, was at the wheel, one thing became abundantly clear – this car is best-suited to the track!
History of this ‘Martini Racing 911 RSR’
However, this car’s origin is the same as all other 911 T production cars that left the factory in 1972. It rolled off the assembly line as a standard production car, but 45 years on, it is racing in South Africa.
Apart from the significant development process of this car – which we’ll get to in a minute – this Porsche 911 has been road-registered every year since 1972.
This car was already built (at great expense and with much effort) into a race car by one of the previous owners. At the time when we drove the car, the owner had bought the Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR tribute car a few years before from a fellow 911 racer and enthusiast. Following his purchase, he competed in races occasionally but realised that a full rebuild of the car was required.
The result was that the car underwent a nearly 2-year restoration. It was stripped, the wiring was redone, the chassis was straightened up and the entire car was repainted. Then, the engine was taken out, stripped and rebuilt, and the cooling system was upgraded, to name just a few of the alterations. The engine was originally a 3.6-litre flat-6 engine from a 964-series 911 Carrera, which was turbocharged.
The owner explains: “I’ve campaigned it in this state, but then rebuilt it and enlarged the engine capacity to 3.8 litres. Other upgrades included race bearings, bespoke camshafts and a rebuilt turbo. The engine was converted to a turbocharged unit in Germany, where it also received special heads and porting.
“We redesigned the entire oil-cooling system. I didn’t like the number of oil pipes and reservoirs that were scattered all over the car and they also contributed to the heat soak in the cabin. So, we took some inspiration from older Cup cars and mounted the oil tank between the engine and gearbox.
The boost pressure for the turbo has been set at 0.8 bar. We also rebuilt or recommissioned every moving part, which came from Porsche, on the car. We’ve tried to keep the ‘RSR’ as original as possible.
After the rebuild, a dyno test revealed (very) impressive peak outputs of 413 kW and 680 N of torque. Let’s not forget, this power is delivered in a car that weighs a mere 1 250 kg.”
“It is, as a matter of fact, a little heavier than it should be, but you have to realise that a tremendous amount of strengthening has gone into the structure of the car,” he adds.
This is visible everywhere. Not only in the cabin, but below the bonnet there is a complete cross-strut bar, adding even more rigidity to the front of the chassis.
Specifications:
Model: 1972 Porsche 911T (base car)
Engine: 3.8-litres, flat-6, turbocharged
Power: 413 kW
Torque: 680 Nm
Transmission: G50, 5-speed manual, RWD
Suspension front: MacPherson struts, Coil springs, Sachs shocks, anti-roll bars
Rear: Swing arms, coil springs, Sachs shocks, anti-roll bars
The cabin is completely stripped and the only obvious modern equipment is the Motec digital screen. This small, but informative, screen displays the air temperature, fuel pressure, engine oil pressure, oil temperature, GPS speed and selected gear – pretty much all the necessary data and figures a racer would require pre-, during and post-race.
The revs are indicated by digital bars running at the top of the screen. There is the compulsory “ignition cut” switch, as well as brake bias and turbo-boost controller switches. The boost gauge is also visible, while the fire extinguishing system can be activated by the pull of a lever – it is an important function when you are strapped in with a 5-point harness and need to climb over so many pipes!
The NACA ducts are pure race car cues and that large rear wing is adjustable. As much as the rear wheel arches grab your attention, the same is true for those widened front arches.
It was the earlier owner who made the effort to build this race car and, in the early 2000s, started the long development process of converting his 911T into a race car. He started by installing lightweight parts, widening the body and the axle tracks, putting in a new floor etc.
The car was mostly developed on the Zwartkops racing circuit outside Pretoria.
“Racing is also something I was interested in, and over the years, through my participation in a few events and with the help of the previous owner of this car, I gained more experience. This is not the first Porsche race car I’ve owned,” the owner adds.
“Previously I’ve owned a 996 GT3 Cup car. I campaigned that for just over a year. We even did the 6-hour endurance race at Phakisa Freeway in the Free State, in which we came 2nd. When I sold that Cup car, I bought this car. Being a turbo, I like it a lot.”
Summary
It might be a bit of a novelty that this tribute car is still road-registered, but long may it continue. It is, without a doubt, one of the most exhilarating 911s I’ve ever had the chance to drive on the road. This homage to the Martini Racing 911 Carrera RSR 2.1 Turbo is a well-developed race car that pays tribute to the original, a car that formed the foundation of so many Porsche road- and race cars since the 1970s…
The new-generation BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offers a bit more space and receives more powerful engines. Here’s your first look.
Following on from the new-generation 1 Series hatchback comes the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and while we’re yet to receive confirmation from BMW SA, it would be a surprise if this model wasn’t earmarked for our market.
It may be tagged as a new-generation model, but in reality, the previous-gen platform has been retained, albeit with some enhancements. BMW’s design team has created something interesting, and these pictures show a sportily-styled sedan, and we’ll pass a verdict when we see the vehicle in the metal. For what it’s worth, we think its a mature design, but you can add trinkets like vibrant paint and an illuminated grille if you’d like to stand out a bit more.
The vehicle has grown in size, with a 20 mm increase in overall length, taking it up to 4 546 mm. Height has increased by 25 mm, which means a bit more headroom, although wheelbase and width remain the same as the outgoing model. It’s interesting to note the badging has changed, with ‘i’ falling away. So you’ll get 218 and M235 as the official names.
There’s more power on offer and the 8-speed automatic gearbox has been replaced by a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The SA lineup is yet to be confirmed, but for now, the international powertrain lineup is as follows; 218 with 115 kW/230 Nm from a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder (up from 103 kW and 220 Nm) and M235 with 233 kW/400 Nm (225 kW/450 Nm previously). The 218 is front-wheel driven, while the baby M model used xDrive all-wheel drive and will be the quicker of the two, with a 4.9 second sprint to 100 kph. It appears the adaptive M suspension is standard across the range.
The cabin has been enhanced and BMW says the new Gran Coupe will come highly specced. That means 12-speaker Harmon Kardon audio, cloud-based navigation, keyless entry, wireless charging pad and so on will not be optional. Inside, the car gets a 10.25-inch screen that serves as the instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch infotainment screen, neatly packaged as the Curve Display. It runs iDrive 9 software and features over-the-air update capability.
Will the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe come to South Africa?
Right now, we’re awaiting comment from BMW SA and like we said earlier, we’d be surprised if this model is not available in our market. We expect the lineup to stay much the same, with 218 and M235.
The convertible derivative of the Mini Cooper has just been revealed and it’s confirmed for South Africa. Here’s your first look.
The 2025 Mini Cooper Convertible will be available in both C and S derivatives and that means turbocharged petrol power.
Interestingly, the three-cylinder motor is not available and Mini has gone for the 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol instead, with a choice of two outputs; 120 kW / 250 Nm and 150 kW / 300 Nm. Both erivatives feature front-wheel drive and automatic gearboxes. The C is said to dash to 100 kph in just 8.2 seconds, with the S being the more performance biased and it’ll hit 100 kph in 6.9 seconds.
Fans of the open-top lifestyle will be interested to learn that the new Mini Cooper Convertible’s roof mechanism opens automatically in just 18 seconds. You don’t have to deploy the roof fully either and you can partially open it, like a sunroof. Once retracted, the canvas roof disappears behind the rear seats and stowed in the luggage compartment. If the weather suddenly takes a turn for the worst, the soft top be fully retracted at speeds of up to 30 kph.
We’ve always seen Mini Coopers as compact cars, with the second row of seats offering just enough space for children, but the brand is claiming the new product is a four-seater. We’ve already spent some time with the latest-generation infotainment system from Mini and this new OLED screen is impressive. For the Mini Cooper Convertible there’s a cute timer that records how long the roof has been down, which is clever. How often do you see convertibles with the roof down? Perhaps if customers were timed, they’d drop the roof more often.
When will the 2025 Mini Cooper Convertible come to SA?
BMW Group South Africa confirmed the new Convertible derivative of the new Mini Cooper will be touching down from the first quarter of 2025. Pricing and location specifications will be made available closer to launch date.
Selling Your Car in South Africa – Everything You Need to Know
There can be a lot of stress involved in selling your car. Finding the right buyer, setting a fair price, and wading through all that paperwork can induce a migraine! Without proper guidance, you risk underselling your vehicle or facing frustrating delays in finalising the sale. Or worse – there are a lot of sharks out there ready to take advantage of unwary sellers.
But it doesn’t have to be this way!
If you’re wondering, “How can I safely sell my car in South Africa?” then read on. By following a few simple steps, you can confidently sell your vehicle and turn what seems like a challenging process into a smooth and successful experience.
We’ll explain everything you need to know, ensuring you’re well-prepared to sell your car easily.
1: Decide How to Sell Your Car
Before starting the selling process, you first need to decide how you plan to sell your car. In South Africa, you typically have two main options:
Selling your car privately
Selling to a dealership
Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Selling Your Car Privately
When you sell your car privately, you have more control over the price and negotiation process. This option can potentially get you the best price, but it also requires more effort. You’ll need to advertise, meet with potential buyers, and handle all paperwork. Online social platforms are popular for private sales, but always be cautious of scammers.
Pros of Selling Privately:
You could achieve a better price than on trade-in..
Control over price negotiations.
Cons of Selling Privately:
Time-consuming.
Advertising your vehicle may incur a cost.
Potential security risks when meeting with buyers.
Selling Your Car to a Dealership
If you’re short on time or want a hassle-free process, selling your car to a dealership or a car-buying service is a convenient option. You’ll receive an instant offer and avoid the paperwork hassle. The downside is that you might not get as high a price as you would in a private sale.
Pros of Selling to a (Reputable) Dealership:
Quick and convenient.
No advertising or meeting with potential buyers is required.
Money clears quickly and safely.
Cons of Selling to a Dealership:
Lower offer compared to private sale.
Limited negotiation power.
Your car may not be in demand, making it hard to find a dealership offering to buy it.
Whether you choose to sell privately or to a dealership, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons based on your situation and needs.
2: Preparing Your Car for Sale
Once you’ve decided how you’re going to sell your second-hand car, it’s time to prepare the vehicle itself. First impressions matter, so ensuring that your car is in top condition will increase your chances of a successful sale.
Clean and Repair Your Car
A clean, well-maintained car is more likely to sell quickly and at a better price. Take the time to wash and wax the exterior, vacuum and clean the interior, and fix any small issues like scratches or dents. If the car needs any significant repairs, it may be worth addressing them before listing it.
Gather Documentation
To sell your car in South Africa, you need to complete several essential forms and gather specific documents to ensure a smooth transaction. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
Required Documents
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC1): This document proves your ownership of the vehicle and includes details such as the make, model, year, and VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
Roadworthy Certificate: A current roadworthy certificate is mandatory when selling a vehicle. It confirms that the car is safe and suitable for use on public roads, issued after an inspection by an accredited testing station.
Proof of Identity: You must provide valid identification, such as a South African ID, passport, or driver’s license, to verify your identity as the seller.
Notification of Change of Ownership (NCO) Form: To officially transfer ownership of the vehicle, both the seller and buyer must complete this form and submit it to the Department of Transport.
Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle (RLV): While not always mandatory for private sales, this form assists the new owner in registering the vehicle in their name.
Finance Settlement Letter: If the vehicle has any outstanding finance, you will need a letter from your financial institution confirming that the debt has been settled or detailing any remaining balance.
Service History (optional but recommended): Providing a detailed service history can add value to your car and reassure potential buyers about its maintenance.
Sales Agreement: Although not legally required, drafting a written sales agreement that outlines the terms of the sale can help prevent misunderstandings later on.
3: Pricing Your Car
Determining the right price is one of the most critical aspects of selling your car. Overpricing can deter buyers, while underpricing means losing out on potential profits. So, how do you strike the perfect balance?
Research Similar Cars
Start by researching the current market. Look at similar cars for sale in your area to understand what other private sellers are asking for similar vehicles. Factors like mileage, condition, and the car’s age will affect its value. You can demand a premium if your car is considered rare and/or collectable, but if you ask the same (or higher) price as a dealer would, prospective buyers may prefer to buy a similar car from someone else!
Cars.co.za offers access to thousands of used cars for sale, allowing you to make the most accurate comparisons.
Be Prepared to Negotiate
When you list your car, it’s common to leave some room for negotiation. Set your price slightly higher than your bottom line so that you can comfortably negotiate with potential buyers.
4: Advertising Your Car
Now that your car is ready and priced, it’s time to advertise. The way you market your car will determine how quickly it sells.
Write a Detailed Description
When listing your car, provide as much information as possible. Include the car’s make, model, year, mileage, and any optional features or upgrades it has. Being honest about defects or issues will help build trust with potential buyers. Look at the most compelling ads you’ve seen and note the details they’ve included.
Take High-Quality Photos
Photos are critical when advertising your car. Potential buyers want to see what they’re getting, so take clear, high-quality images of the vehicle’s exterior and interior. Showcase any unique features or upgrades to make your car stand out.
5: Meeting Potential Buyers
If you’re selling your car privately, you’ll need to meet with potential buyers for test drives and negotiations. Here are some tips to ensure these meetings go smoothly:
Meet in a public place: For safety, always meet potential buyers in a well-lit, public location. Let a friend or relative know where you will be and whom you will be meeting.
Have all paperwork ready: Bring copies of the car’s registration, service history, and other relevant documents.
Be ready to negotiate: Stay firm on your price, but be willing to negotiate within reason.
6: Completing the Sale
Once you’ve found a buyer, it’s time to close the deal. Ensure all necessary paperwork is completed and signed, including a formal sales agreement.
If the buyer is paying for the vehicle by depositing money in your bank account by an electronic fund transfer (EFT), provide them with a formal sales agreement immediately, but wait for that sum to reflect as a credit in the account before handing over the vehicle and other paperwork.
A bank-guaranteed cheque for the purchase price is also an acceptable means of payment and,if the buyer is paying in cash, double-check the money before handing over the car.
If you’ve sold to a dealership, they will typically handle most of the paperwork for you, simplifying the process.
Accepting Cash?
If you’re planning to sell your car for cash, you must be aware of several potential pitfalls.
First, large cash transactions over R25,000 must be reported to the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) to comply with anti-money laundering regulations, which can create additional paperwork and scrutiny.
Additionally, accepting cash can expose you to risks such as counterfeit notes; always verify the authenticity of the money.
There’s also the possibility of buyer scams or disputes arising after the sale, as cash transactions can lack formal documentation.
To mitigate these risks, consider using a secure payment method or conducting the transaction in a safe environment, such as a bank, where funds can be verified immediately. Always ensure that you have a proper sales agreement and that the vehicle registration is transferred correctly to avoid future liabilities.
Final Thoughts: Where to List Your Car
“I want to sell my car!”
That’s great -and if you’re ready to go, consider listing it on a trusted platform like Cars.co.za. We provide a simple, secure way to list your car and connect with potential buyers. Plus, we offer services to help you evaluate your car’s worth and streamline the selling process.
Simplifying the Car Selling Process in South Africa
Follow these simple steps to take the stress out of selling your car. Remember, setting a fair price, advertising effectively, and ensuring the car is in great condition will boost your chances of a quick and profitable sale.
The Omoda C9 is not just another generously specced Chinese-made medium SUV to join the South African market. It’s a disruptor that competes at the top end of SA’s family car- and German premium brand-dominated executive SUV segments.
It is starting to feel a bit like “rinse and repeat” when it comes to new Chinese car products entering the South African market (the most recent ones you may recall are the GAC GS3 Emzoom and Emkoo), but with its C9 flagship, Omoda hopes to challenge even European premium marques, so it’s a huge deal!
Okay, it’s not unusual for brands to claim they are playing in the premium space when in reality, they’re just indulging in a bit of marketing speak. But Omoda is, in fact, the premium arm of Chery’s O&J division (in case you haven’t worked it out already, the J stands for Jaecoo). And, having arrived at the C9 launch in a Mercedes-Benz, I was interested to see how it would compare with a fellow premium contender.
It feels effortlessly luxurious…
It shouldn’t still come as a surprise, but this midsized crossover coupe (or executive SUV coupe, if you prefer) seems as luxurious and premium as a comparable model from any of our market’s legacy brands.
Several Chinese marques are “nailing the brief” with the look and feel of their new vehicles, not to mention all the tech they cram into the models (at their various price points). Indeed, it is becoming the norm to feel as comfortable and pampered in a Chinese car as you would in say, a German one. This is certainly not something we would have said 5 years ago – to be fair, Omoda was only founded in 2022.
Inspired by the Range Rover Velar…
The reason could be that Omoda has taken inspiration from the brands that inspire – or, in this case, are tied in with – it. You will certainly spot elements of the Range Rover Velar in the C9. Omoda is happy to admit the C9’s styling cues were inspired by the Velar… and its flush door handles are very à la JLR.
The Omoda C9 has plenty of kerb presence, even when clad in Moonlight White, and there are 3 other colours to choose from: Meteorite Grey, Quantum Grey, and my personal favourite, Cosmic Black.
And, because signature lighting is all the rage, the C9 boasts automatic LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. The AWD derivative furthermore comes with adaptive lights up front.
The launch route, which incorporated some of the Western Cape’s most scenic (read: touristy) roads, served as the perfect backdrop to a car that would be right at home in Cape Town’s upmarket suburbs, such as the Atlantic Seaboard, yet the Omoda C9’s keen price point is likely to see this model pop up all over the country in the coming months. But more on that later, I am saving it for the climax of this review.
Omoda C9 cabin piles on the luxury
Omoda wants the C9 to compete with premium-brand models, so its cabin needs to be extraordinary, which indeed it is: plush, luxurious and superbly comfortable, with soft-touch surfaces in abundance.
I mentioned the Mercedes-Benz earlier, and when ensconced in the Omoda C9, you might be forgiven for thinking that you are seated in one of the Three-pointed Star’s luxury offerings! The newcomer’s transmission lever is a stalk, which mimics a Benz-style column shifter and the electric seat adjustment buttons on the door panel look very similar to what you’d find in a Merc. It’s all rather familiar – I like it.
No review of a Chinese brand’s crossover/SUV would be complete without a lengthy paragraph about all the features and tech it offers – and the Omoda C9 is no exception. There are 2 variants to choose from: the 2.0T Inspire and 2.0T Explore AWD, both of which are generously specced, but I won’t waffle about that here – if you want a detailed breakdown of all the features, read Omoda C9 (2024) Price & Specs.
A 9-speaker Sony audio system is standard, with the 2.0T Explore AWD boasting 12 speakers, some of which are integrated into the driver’s headrest. The front seats are electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated; the Nappa leather-trimmed ‘wheel is also electrically adjustable and heated as standard.
The rear passengers benefit from electrically adjustable (and 60/40-split folding) backrests and seat heating, as well as having a separate climate control console and ventilation outlets. Should one of those passengers require more legroom, there is a “Boss” button that allows you to move the front passenger seat forward. This should prove fun for parents with kids in the back who keep pushing it for giggles…
Up front is a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment screen (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The graphics are good, but as with many new vehicles in which so many controls are integrated into the touchscreen, changing the cabin temperature, for example, requires familiarisation.
There are, however, a few shortcut buttons, including one that takes you directly to the climate control screen. A panoramic sunroof is standard, as is a head-up display and a 540-degree camera system.
As consumers have come to expect, the Omoda C9 has a host of safety features and -technologies, but thankfully, they are nowhere near as intrusive as they can be. Even the alert sounds have been dimmed.
What is the Omoda C9 like to drive?
The Omoda C9 is propelled by the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max‘s engine, albeit with a bit more power. In this model, the 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine produces 192 kW and 400 Nm of torque. Power is sent to either the front wheels or all of the wheels, derivative-depending, via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Both variants offer drive modes, while the Explore AWD includes off-road modes, as well as adaptive damping. There is plenty of oomph on tap, but the ‘box tends to shift a little unexpectedly at times.
Don’t get me wrong, this is an exceptionally refined car for cruising, but if you plant the accelerator pedal too aggressively, the C9 will shoot forward “enthusiastically”, which may startle its occupants (it certainly startled me!) Perhaps the throttle calibration needs a tweak, but this “issue” isn’t unique to the Omoda.
Overall, the newcomer’s ride quality is highly composed, even forgiving and, as I mentioned before (but will reiterate here, for added impact), comfortable. It all adds to the Omoda’s air of luxury and refinement.
While we were driving along the winding Chapman’s Peak Drive, the C9 felt like a large car, or at least more substantial than most family cars/medium SUVs. It commands the road in the way that executive SUVs do. We didn’t pay too much notice to the fuel consumption (the test unit had only clocked up 400 km), but it seemed a trifle high; hopefully, the model will be more fuel efficient once it has been run in.
How much does the Omoda C9 cost in SA?
Omoda C9 2.0T Inspire
R785 900
OMODA C9 2.0T Explore AWD
R885 900
Note that both variants are offered with a R25k discount (October 2024) for a limited time only.
The Omoda C9 comes standard with a 7-year/100 000 km service plan, a 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty and an industry-leading 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty (for the first owner).
In a few years, the South African car-buying landscape will be almost unrecognisable! The Omoda C9 will, without a doubt, entice buyers who previously only considered European or Japanese luxury cars. Local new-vehicle buyers are renowned for being “brand snobs”, but even brand loyalists will have to admit defeat as the deals on these cars become too sweet (I didn’t even rhyme that on purpose).
The Omoda C9 comfortably rivals the likes of the Volkswagen Tiguan (and other top-end medium SUVs) and even the 4th-gen BMW X3 (and the other executive SUVs in our market). And, at these prices, which (as explained above) is a launch special for October 2024 and will go up by R25 000 thereafter, Omoda’s proposition seems almost too good to be true, but, believe it – the C9 is going to change the game.
Shiran Samuel might have worked in finance for most of his life, but today he focuses on his true passion: Japanese performance cars. We visit JDM Collective.
It is no secret that the performance cars from the ’90s, Noughties and even some from the 2010s have become quite sought-after. In terms of percentage growth, some of these cars’ prices have increased much more than cars from Ferrari or Lamborghini, for example.
But Shiran Samuel didn’t jump on this bandwagon, he is arguably one of the guys who saw the potential of the cars while also being a true enthusiast. He worked in the financial markets for several years.
However, after that stint in the corporate world, he decided to follow his passion and get involved in the car community and -retail. He founded JDM Collective and today, he offers a range of collectable Japanese performance cars as well as some European exotics. He swapped a job for a passion!
As I walk through the door I’m welcomed by Shiran and, moments later, my attention is immediately grabbed by the Japanese performance cars – perfectly parked, with almost military-like precision.
A couple of the cars are stored here by clients, some are for sale and a good number of them belong to Shiran himself. As expected, most of the R35-gen Nissan GT-Rs are not standard, as most owners prefer to customise these cars to a certain extent – some more liberally than others.
Of all the cars in the collection, it is the white R34 V-Spec II that is without a doubt the most collectable. As we take a seat Shiran shares his automotive history with me.
The origin story of JDM Collective
“My first car was a Colt Galant, a hand-me-down. I started modifying everything I could, from the engine to the exhaust. When I left school, I acquired a Ford Escort. It goes without saying that I read many car magazines, browsed the classifieds and learned everything about cars, their figures and their prices. The media and the stats said at the time that the Nissan Sabre 200 GXi was the car to have.
I got a 1997 model in 2001 and from there, my interest kicked off. This was also the year that Fast & Furious hit the big screen and there was even more of a focus on performance parts. Through internet searches, I could then see what people in the USA and Australia were doing to their cars. My love for Nissan started there and with the SR20 engine. I did an engine swap with an imported Japanese engine.”
The car he has owned the longest is a modified R35-gen Nissan GT-R.
“I’ve done an AMS Alpha 7 conversion on the car, a NISMO Time Attack rear carbon-fibre wing and an updated turbo, to name only a few modifications. It makes 620 kW at the wheels… it is a lovely car.”
NxGen in Johannesburg does Shiran’s maintenance and builds.
“I do enjoy modifying some cars. I believe they are meant to be played with – as if they are a platform to be enjoyed. With JDM cars, it truly is an expression of yourself. I like the old cars because they are so engaging. They are visceral and you need to work behind the ‘wheel.”
The importance of the car community
“The only way you get access to special cars is through the car community, you need to really dive into it. That is how I acquired most of my cars (through the community). That is what JDM Collective is for, to open it for the broader community and petrolheads, be it to buy a car or to meet up for a coffee.
“The Japanese car culture fascinates me. The desire for perfection can be seen in these cars. Consider, for example, the honour associated with the engine builders. I love that they take such jobs so seriously. These Japanese cars’ reputations are well-founded.
“The other thing I like about them is that they are naughty. Yes, there was that ‘gentlemen’s agreement of top speed and power’, but in the end, the brands always quietly catered for enthusiasts.
“In many cases, a car company’s marketing department quashes the brand’s true petrolhead DNA. It is always a nostalgia thing… The generation you come from defines your fondest car memories.”
Shiran has been to Japan with his family to visit some of the most important places in the country for car enthusiasts. He says he is keen to return to Japan because there is still so much to see and experience.
I can easily sit for another hour and talk to Shiran about all things JDM. He shares some big plans for the future, which clearly shows that he hit the nail on the head by opening this business.
The lavishly appointed Omoda C9 marks the first time that Chinese automotive group Chery has launched a model above the medium SUV segment in Mzansi. Here is what the newcomer comes equipped with, and how much the derivatives cost…
The Omoda C9 (a product of Chery’s O&J division) was previewed at last year’s Johannesburg Festival of Motoring. Still, it has taken about a year for the Omoda flagship model to arrive in our market.
For context, the arrestingly styled coupe-SUV is not so much a “new” model as a repackaged version of the RX – a model that one of Chery’s other sub-brands, Exeed – offers in overseas markets.
In terms of dimensions, the Omoda C9 falls into the German premium brand-dominated executive SUV segment – but, fear not, the Chinese-built newcomer is specified and finished to an appropriately lofty level. The model is 4 775 mm long, 1 920 mm wide and stands 1 671 mm tall, which – for reference – makes it 29 mm longer, 2 mm wider and 50 mm taller than the outgoing BMW X4 coupe-SUV.
The newcomer’s exterior execution is marked by a (relatively) low-slung cross-coupe profile and sleek, sculpted sheet metal, complemented by pop-up door handles. At the front, the body-coloured, diamond-patterned grille sits between automatically activated LED headlamps (which are adaptive, with a welcome lighting sequence, on the Explore AWD variant) and wrapped by an LED lightbar. The rear features a tailgate spoiler and wraparound LED light bar that integrates the tail-light elements.
The C9 rides on 20-inch alloy wheels (complemented by red brake callipers on the Explore AWD). A full-size spare wheel is housed under the floor of the Omoda’s luggage compartment, with the latter offering an impressive 660 litres of space (and up to 1 783 litres with the 60:40-split 2nd-row folded down).
Under the bonnet is a 192 kW/400 Nm 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that drives either the front- (Inspire FWD) or all wheels (Explore AWD) via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Shift paddles come standard, while the top-of-range derivative gains off-road drive modes, as well as adaptive damping.
Inside, the Omoda C9 is trimmed in finely stitched leather trim (black, in the case of the Inspire FWD and Black/Light Brown Nappa in the Explore AWD), dual 12.3-inch screens (integrated into a single, curved panel with a thickness of just 15 mm), a 50W wireless charger, a 9-speaker Sony audio system, which in the AWD derivative includes 3 extra speakers, some of which are integrated into the driver’s headrest.
The front seats are electrically adjustable (including lumbar support) as well as heated and ventilated. Even the Nappa leather-trimmed steering wheel is electrically adjustable and heated as standard.
The front passenger seat features a “Boss” button that allows the rear occupants to quickly and easily move this pew forward to maximise the already generous rear legroom. Rear passengers also benefit from power-adjustable backrests and seat heating, as well as a dedicated climate-control console.
Comprehensive specification – for both variants
Other standard features include a keyless entry and start, a head-up display, electrically adjustable-, heated- and folding side mirrors, dual-zone climate- and adaptive cruise control, a 540-degree camera system, wireless Apple CarPlayAndroid Auto, LED ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate. The Explore AWD even comes equipped with a 3-fragrance dispensing system.
As for standard safety and driver-assistance features, both Omonda C9 derivatives come equipped with dual- front, side and curtain airbags, as well as driver’s knee and -bolster airbags, a built-in dashcam, front and rear PDC, plus automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and -brake, lane departure warning, -change assist and -departure prevention, integrated cruise and traffic congestion assist and emergency lane keeping (all part of the intelligent collision-avoidance system).
How much does the Omoda C9 cost in SA?
Omoda C9 2.0T Inspire FWD
R785 900
OMODA C9 2.0T Explore AWD
R885 900
Note that both variants are offered with a R25k discount (October 2024) for a limited time only.
The Omoda C9 comes standard with a 7-year/100 000 km service plan, a 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty and an industry-leading 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty (for the first owner).
