Tata Tiago Review: We drive one of SA’s most affordable cars

David Taylor drives the Tata Tiago 1.2 XT to see if this highly anticipated entry into the South African budget-car segment can compete with the established leaders.

The South African motoring public has been eagerly awaiting the return of Tata passenger cars. While the brand never truly left the country (it continued to operate in the commercial sector), the arrival of models like the Tata Tiago signals a serious commitment to re-entering the high-volume car market.

David Taylor puts a 1.2 XT through its paces to assess everything from the mid-spec variant’s packaging, performance and efficiency, features list, practicality, as well as the after-sales support offered by Tata.

The Return of the Tata Passenger Car

Before diving into the Tiago itself, David provides crucial local context on the Tata brand, which recently returned to the South African passenger car market with a 4-pronged model line-up. The Tiago leads a charge that includes the Punch, Curvv, and Harrier models, all of which seem very competitively priced.

Fighting for the Budget Crown: Pricing & Rivals

With prices that start under R200 000 and top out at R224 900 (in November 2025, a high-spec XR is in the pipeline), the Tata Tiago is aimed squarely at the heart of the budget-hatch segment. Its launch line-up comprises 3 derivatives: the entry-level 1.2 XM, mid-spec 1.2 XT (tested here), and 1.2 XT automatic.

See also: Tata Tiago (2025) Price & Specs

The Tata Tiago‘s key rivals are well-known to South African buyers; they include the Renault Kwid, as well as the Suzuki Celerio and Toyota Vitz cousins. The contenders all have the following in common: 3-cylinder, naturally aspirated engines, small hatchback bodies, and country of manufacture: India!

The 1.2 XT is powered by a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine that produces 63 kW/113 Nm and is mated with a 5-speed manual ‘box. Although Tata claims an average fuel consumption of 5.0 L/100 km for the variant, our testers achieved around 6.6 L/100 km, which was a little higher than that of its direct rivals.

However, David notes the Tata’s peak outputs are among the highest in its segment, which is a potential advantage, considering that non-turbo engines suffer a 17% power loss in the thinner air of Gauteng.

On the Road: Tata Tiago Drivetrain & Agility

Reviewing the Tata Tiago 1.2 XT’s manual gearbox required David to temper his expectations. While it performs adequately for a budget-car offering, the test car’s shift action and clutch engagement lack the effortless precision of some of its competitors, particularly the Suzuki Celerio and Toyota Vitz.

The 1.2-litre engine delivers acceptable momentum, even when negotiating gradients, but David noted the 3-pot was typically thrummy at higher engine speeds – a necessary compromise in this category.

However – and somewhat unexpectedly – the Tata Tiago shines in terms of handling characteristics. Its ride comfort is surprisingly compliant, thanks to plump tyres fitted to its 14-inch wheels (with decorative covers), which successfully absorb the bumps and ruts often found on South African secondary roads.

Furthermore, the Tata Tiago’s excellent turning circle, which David demonstrated with a U-turn test, is highlighted as a game-changer for urban driving – it makes easy work of tight parking manoeuvres.

David Taylor tests the height adjustability of the driver's seat in the Tata Tiago

Interior Features & Safety Specification

Inside, the Tata Tiago’s cabin is built to a price point, featuring hard, durable plastics. How well these materials will hold up over long-term ownership remains to be seen, but prospects look promising.

The 1.2 XT features several key features over the 1.2 XM that justify the step-up in price: a 7.0-inch Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible touchscreen infotainment system, a 4-speaker audio setup, a reverse-view camera (to complement the rear parking sensors), electrically adjustable side mirrors, a multifunction ‘wheel, along with electronic stability control, hill-hold control, and a rear-window demister.

However, the segment’s biggest compromise lies in safety specification. Tata has ensured that all Tiago derivatives are equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS with EBD) and 2 front airbags – the basics, then.

But David makes a strong case that an electronic stability control (ESC) should be non-negotiable across the entire Tiago range, arguing that active safety systems are essential for keeping drivers out of trouble.

Finally, while the 242-litre load bay is adequately sized (it can fit 3 Budget Insurance cooler boxes), some cost-cutting is visible. There is no rear windscreen wiper – a drawback when driving in wet weather.

What does the Tata Tiago cost in South Africa?

DERIVATIVE	PRICE
Tata Tiago 1.2 XM 5MT	R184 900
Tata Tiago 1.2 XT 5MT	R209 900
Tata Tiago 1.2 XT 5AMT	R224 900

Prices (correct in November 2025) include a 5-year/125 000 km warranty and a 2-year/30 000 km service plan.

Tata Passenger Cars are imported by the Motus Group, an established player responsible for brands like Hyundai, Kia, and Renault. With an initial dealer footprint of around 40, Tata aims to expand this to 70 dealers by 2027, addressing common consumer concerns about after-sales support.

Tata Tiago (2025) Price & Specs

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Summary

David concludes by balancing the Tata Tiago‘s strong points – its punchy engine and keen price, to mention just 2 – with the lack of ESC across the range and middling (2-year) service plan. The core question for any prospective buyer becomes: do the newcomer’s strengths outweigh the overall value proposition offered by its more established budget-car segment rivals?

Watch the full video review above to find out where the Tata Tiago lands in the budget car pecking order.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the key engine specifications for the Tata Tiago 1.2 XT?

A: The 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine produces 63 kW of power and 113 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Q: What is the biggest compromise in the Tata Tiago’s safety specification?

A: The segment’s biggest compromise is the lack of an electronic stability control (ESC) system across the entire Tiago range, although all derivatives include ABS with EBD and 2 front airbags.

Q: What after-sales support is included in the purchase price?

A: The purchase price includes a 5-year/125,000 km warranty and a 2-year/30,000 km service plan.

New Hilux – what looks new but isn’t

The new Hilux might use old engines and gearboxes, but the design is definitely all-new, or is it? Will Hilux buyers be happy with another decade of (very) average rear seat comfort because of a legacy platform?

But often all that exterior design, hides aged engineering underneath. Toyota’s new Hilux looks more futuristic than many expected. The aerodynamic front end is a smart design, because bakkies are notoriously poor aerodynamically.

Looks can be very deceiving. And automotive designers are experts at making vehicles look bigger, smaller, taller, thinner or wider. Using the ratio of metal to glass, body panel proportions, and vehicle stance to influence perception.

Yet all the clever design and sneaky imitation features, like the Hilux’s version of the Ranger’s box step, doesn’t answer the driving questions about ths new bakkie. Which is how much investment Toyota has really made in the frame and cabin space?

Hilux chassis is tough enough

*Inspired by Ford’s Ranger box step, and a very useful feature on the new Hilux.*

The 9th-generation Hilux will be built on a frame that is anything but new.

Toyota supporters will argue that Hilux’s proven durability, especially in farm applications and across millions of kilometres of severe dirt-road use, proves that its steel ladder frame doesn’t need an upgrade. And they might be right.

Take the Land Cruiser 70-Series example. These Toyotas have effectively been using the same steel ladder frame design for nearly four decades and enjoy universal customer approval. Despite being very uncomfortable for passengers.

But the issue is that Hilux’s IVM platform dates back to the late 2000s – and other bakkies have evolved a lot since then, with newer platforms. Toyota did comprehensively reengineer the chassis from the 7th to the 8th generation Hilux in 2015. Between the 8th and 9th-generation? Not so much…

Digital design tools and available automotive-grade steels are continuously evolving. And not using all that technological advancement, by creating an entirely new frame for Hilux, is a thing. Especially with so many newer rivals in the market.

Toyota has mentioned that the new Hilux, built on the legacy IMV platform, does feature an upgraded spot-welding profile. But that’s now quite the same as a completely new design, which can optimise strength, reduce weight, and allow for a bigger, better, cab-design, with more space and comfort. Which is what most double cab bakkie customers really want.

The TNGA-F chassis question

*Possibly the best volume ladder frame chassis in the world. Used in Prado, Cruiser 300 and Tacoma. Not Hilux.*

There’s a lot of disappointment that Toyota didn’t use a shortened version of the TNGA-F platform for the new Hilux. Consolidating similarly sized vehicles onto a single platform can create significant economies of scale, enabling some terrific engineering innovation. And that’s exactly what Toyota has been doing with its severe-duty off-road SUVs and bakkies over the last few years.

The company’s engineers have invested heavily in R&D into the TNGA-F platform, an overengineered ladder-frame platform familiar to South Africans in the Land Cruiser 300 and Prado. Imagine the product potential of Prado-grade of 4×4 chassis durability, toughness and cabin comfort in a new Hilux?

Suspension mounting points and greater off road wheel travel are two benefits of using the TNGA-F platform. And considering how popular Hilux is for South Africans who actually use their bakkies in an all-terrain role, or as a platform for overlanding, it’s curious that Toyota didn’t want to transition Hilux to the TNGA-F platform.

Rear seat legroom?

*Same core cab structure and chassis, means the same rear comfort issues as 8^th-gen Hilux.*

The bakkie as a family vehicle, and even a luxury family vehicle, is something few product planners predicted 15 years ago. But it’s become a reality, creating new customer demands for double cab designers and engineers.

Body-on-frame vehicles have poor cabin comfort. Especially double cab bakkies, because there’s very little floor depth to work with to create legroom and seating angle comfort for rear passengers. It’s improving, but very slightly.

Toyota says its Hilux customers are bothered by cabin space, but the truth is that all its rivals now effectively offer better cabin comfort. And some Hilux rivals offer much better rear passenger legroom and seating comfort. Which matters a lot when you are using any double cab as a family vehicle.

How IMV limits Hilux cab comfort

*Ford Ranger has set high standards for long distance rear-seat bakkie comfort.*

Look beyond that aerodynamic new front-end, and you’ll notice that new Hilux has the same core cab structure and panels.

The roof and doors haven’t really changed. And that’s limiting. Because it means the cabin packaging inside can’t have changed much. That means the same cramped rear with that uncomfortable seating position that has made Hilux one of the less pleasant spaces for passengers on long journeys across South Africa, especially if seated behind a tall driver.

This is where the argument of using the TNGA-F platform re-enters the debate. New Hilux’s cabin packaging is limited, because a body-on-frame vehicle’s cabin comfort is as much influenced by the cab, as the steel frame it’s mounted onto. And that legacy Hilux IMV platform has limited what Hilux cabin architects and ergonomic specialists can do to make it comfier, because a redesigned, roomier, cab structure would never fit on the carry-over steel ladder frame.

If Toyota chose to use the newer, better TNGA-F platform, Hilux could have had an amazingly comfortable rear passenger seating experience, like the American-market Tacoma. Which is built on the TNGA-F platform.

Tacoma has all those Prado-type benefits regarding off road ability and cabin comfort, because it uses the best body-on-frame Toyota makes. And has invested the most money in.

Strangely, considering Hilux’s global product profile and importance to Toyota’s profitability, it’s peculiar that the engineering team decided not to use the newer, better, TNGA-F platform. Especially in a market where double cab customers are demaning more cabin comfort, instead of pure commercial vehicle bakkie usability.

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

Omoda C7 (2025) Price & Specs

The new Omoda C7 has arrived in SA, slotting in above the popular C5 and available from launch in turbopetrol and plug-in hybrid form. Here’s what this crossover costs…

New C7 officially hits the market in SA
3-strong local range starts at R539 900
Turbopetrol and PHEV variants available

Fresh off a record sales performance in October 2025, the Chery Group’s Omoda & Jaecoo division has launched its 5th nameplate in South Africa: the Omoda C7 crossover.

As its name suggests, the newcomer – which was previewed at the 2025 Festival of Motoring at the end of August – slots in neatly between the popular C5 and the flagship C9. At launch, the local Omoda C7 range comprises a trio of derivatives, with both turbopetrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains available.

The local portfolio kicks off with the C7 1.6T Luxury 7DCT, which is priced at R539 900. Both this variant and the R589 900 Elegance derivative employ a turbocharged 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (familiar from the Jaecoo J7) delivering 145 kW and 290 Nm to the front axle via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Chinese firm lists a fuel consumption figure of 7.5 L/100 km.

Meanwhile, the C7 1.5T SHS PHEV DHT is priced at R689 900 – exactly in line with its Jaecoo J7 plug-in hybrid sibling – making it one of South Africa’s most affordable PHEVs. Like the J7, this derivative combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, generating total system outputs as lofty as 255 kW and 525 Nm.

According to Omoda, the front-wheel-drive PHEV derivative’s 18.4 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery pack offers an all-electric range of 105 km, pushing the total cruising range to “approximately 1 200 km”. Fuel consumption for this SHS-badged variant is listed as 5.0 L/100 km.

Measuring 4 660 mm from nose to tail with a wheelbase of 2 720 mm, the Omoda C7 is 160 mm longer than the J7 (and has an additional 48 mm between its axles). The purely petrol-powered derivatives have a ground clearance of 176 mm and a claimed luggage capacity of 614 litres, while those values drop to 171 mm and 590 litres, respectively, in the case of the PHEV flagship.

The Luxury grade includes items like 19-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, leather upholstery, dual-zone air conditioning, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, parking sensors (front and rear), tyre-pressure monitoring, 6 airbags, adaptive cruise control and various advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) features.

Stepping up to the Elegance specification adds features such as 2 extra airbags (driver’s-knee and central items), a 540-degree camera system, wireless smartphone charging, 2 additional speakers (taking the total to 8), front foglamps, red brake callipers, yet more driver-assistance kit and electric adjustment (plus heating and ventilation) for the front seats.

Finally, in addition to its electrified powertrain, the range-topping C7 SHS PHEV scores 20-inch rims (though does without a spare wheel), a 12-speaker sound system, active noise control, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror and a massage function for the front passenger.

What is the price of the Omoda C7 in South Africa?

DERIVATIVE	PRICE
Omoda C7 1.6T Luxury 7DCT	R539 900
Omoda C7 1.6T Elegance 7DCT	R589 900
Omoda C7 1.5T SHS PHEV DHT	R689 900

The prices above include a 5-year/150 000 km warranty for the ICE derivatives (plus a 10-year/1-million km engine warranty for the first owner) and a 7-year/200 000 km warranty for the PHEV flagship (with a 10-year/unlimited kilometre battery-pack warranty for the first owner). All derivatives furthermore come standard with a 5-year/75 000 km service plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Omoda C7

Q: What is the price range and model lineup for the new Omoda C7 in South Africa?

A: The Omoda C7 is available in a 3-strong range with a starting price of R539 900. The full price list is Omoda C7 1.6T Luxury 7DCT at R539 900; Omoda C7 1.6T Elegance 7DCT at R589 900 and Omoda C7 1.5T SHS PHEV DHT at R689 900.

Q: What are the main engine options and their respective outputs?

A: The Omoda C7 is available in both turbopetrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) forms: The turbopetrol models (Luxury and Elegance) use a turbocharged 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 145 kW and 290 Nm. The PHEV model (1.5T SHS PHEV DHT) combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 255 kW and 525 Nm.

Q: What is the all-electric driving range and key warranty details for the PHEV model?

A: The C7 PHEV, equipped with an 18.4 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery, offers an all-electric driving range of 105 km and a total cruising range of approximately 1 200 km. It is covered by a 7-year/200 000 km warranty, which includes a 10-year/unlimited kilometre battery-pack warranty for the first owner. All derivatives come with a 5-year/75 000 km service plan.

GWM SA to ‘aggressively’ relaunch Ora EV brand in 2026

The head of GWM SA says the Chinese firm “has a plan” to relaunch its Ora electric vehicle sub-brand locally in 2026 and “be more aggressive” in the EV market…

GWM SA to relaunch Ora EV sub-brand next year
Local COO says competition in EV space is “fierce”
New Ora 5 crossover recently revealed in China

The head of GWM South Africa says the company plans to relaunch its Ora fully electric sub-brand in 2026 with the intention of being “more aggressive” in the segment.

Conrad Groenewald, Chief Operating Officer of GWM South Africa, was speaking during a wide-ranging interview conducted in Cars.co.za’s custom-built podcast booth at Naamsa’s South African Auto Week 2025 in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape at the start of October.

The Chinese firm entered the local electric vehicle (EV) space back in November 2023 with the introduction of the Ora 03 hatchback. It launched at a starting price of R686 950 – interestingly, a figure that has yet to be increased – making it Mzansi’s most affordable EV at the time.

“We were the cheapest EV at that point in time [when the Ora launched late in 2023]. Competition is fierce. Global policies are driving EV investments, specifically from China. BYD came in and have taken the spot of the most affordable EV in South Africa at the moment,” Groenewald said, referring to the recently launched BYD Dolphin Surf, which starts at R339 900.

*The Ora 03 hit the market in SA in November 2023.*

“So, we have not quite seen the traction on the Ora that we wanted. But we have a plan – we have a plan [for] next year [2026] to relaunch the Ora brand and be more aggressive in that space,” Groenewald divulged.

Local sales of the battery-powered Ora 03 have been slow, with just 18 units registered in 2023 and 43 examples sold in 2024. Facing increased competition at the lower end of South Africa’s EV market, sales of the Ora 03 over the opening 10 months of 2025 have crept to just 18 units.

Though Groenewald didn’t go into further detail regarding GWM South Africa’s plans to relaunch the Ora sub-brand, his counterpart in Australia – a fellow right-hand-drive market closely aligned to ours – recently confirmed plans to offer “an Ora small SUV” Down Under in 2026.

GWM Australia Chief Operating Officer, John Kett, told Australian media, including CarExpert: “We obviously have Ora sitting in the small-car segment. In the small SUV segment, we will certainly have an Ora small SUV next year [2026],” adding that the company is “still considering a mid-size SUV coming out of the Ora line-up”.

*The Ora 5 was unveiled in China as recently as September 2025.*

It’s thought the “small SUV” to which Kett is referring is a model recently revealed in China. Set to be badged as the “Ora 5” in its domestic market, the newcomer – which is slightly longer than the BYD Atto 3 at 4 471 mm – will likely be offered in front-wheel-drive 150 kW form in the world’s 2nd most populous nation.

What about the “mid-size SUV” Kett mentioned? Well, such a model has yet to be unveiled. For the record, in China, where the Ora 03 is known as the “Good Cat”, GWM also offers the “Ballet Cat” mid-size hatchback (which bears more than a passing resemble to the Type 1 Volkswagen Beetle) and the “Lightning Cat” mid-size fastback sedan (which we sampled in Australia in early 2023).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When does GWM SA plan to relaunch the Ora EV sub-brand?

A: GWM South Africa plans to relaunch the Ora sub-brand in 2026 with the intention of being “more aggressive” in the electric vehicle (EV) market, according to its COO.

Q: Why is GWM SA planning a relaunch of the Ora brand?

A: GWM SA’s COO, Conrad Groenewald, stated that they “have not quite seen the traction on the Ora that we wanted” since its initial launch. Increased competition has seemingly impacted sales, necessitating a relaunch plan for 2026.

Q: Which new Ora models might be considered for the South African market?

A: While GWM SA did not give specifics, GWM Australia has confirmed plans to offer an “Ora small SUV” in 2026. This is thought to be the model recently revealed in China, known domestically as the Ora 5. A “mid-size SUV” is also being considered for the Australian market.

Why new Hilux uses Toyota’s old engines and drivetrains

The 9^th-generation Hilux doesn’t have any new engines. Or gearboxes. Is Toyota being cheap or does it know more about real double cab customer engine and drivetrain needs than its rivals?

New Hilux is aways a generational vehicle event. Globally, it’s one of the most influential vehicles of all time and in South Africa, it remains by far the most successful model line.

But despite Toyota’s dominant market share locally, Hilux is facing increasing competition. Especially in the lucrative double cab market, where Ford’s Ranger has often outsold it. By offering more advanced powertrains, drivetrains, and much better cabin comfort.

Then there are the Chinese. Rapid engineering iteration and class-defining infotainment and tech integration have created increasingly sophisticated Chinese double cabs. And Chinese powertrain engineers are now investing in diesel engine technology, an area they’ve traditionally lacked, to create even better rivals to Hilux.

The Toyota way is traditional

New Toyota Hilux — *No off road geometry numbers yet. But expect the raised body version to offer lots of ground clearance.*

Market leadership is burdensome. When you are the best, there’s always the risk of changing too much and creating an unintended weakness. Toyota’s bakkie knowledge is proven. And it knows what customers, especially South African bakkie buyers, need. And needs and wants, aren’t the same thing.

Durability and mechanical integrity have long been pillars of the Hilux product. It’s never had the best tech, most powerful engines, or smoothest transmission, but everything works. And keeps working. For a very long time. Which is why Hilux bakkies have such impressive residual values.

With new Hilux, very little has changed regarding its deep mechanical engineering. And for some buyers in the double cab market, that will be a problem. But is the old tech really that much of an issue?

The carry-over engine issue

*The Toyota way: internal timing chain instead of a wet belt and a single variable geometry turbo, instead of two turbochargers.*

New Hilux is not onboarding any new engines. And this is significant because, traditionally, a new-generation Hilux has also meant at least one new engine.

From 7^th to 8^th generation Hilux, the big introduction was 2.8 GD. Toyota’s versatile 4-cylinder turbodiesel, which has gone on to power everything from Hilux and Fortuner, to Land Cruiser Prado and 70 Series. But from 8^th to 9^th generation Hilux, there’s nothing new.

The new Hilux range will continue with carry-over engines. That means the lead engine remains Toyota’s 2GD-FTV. It’s a proven engine, with 150 kW and 500 Nm, so there’s not much to question about in terms of engine outputs.

Any engine is judged by its rivals, and Ford’s soon-to-be-discontinued 2.0 BiTurbo diesel is rated at 154 kW and 500 Nm. So there’s no question that Hilux’s engine is on-standard, despite market expectations that it should always be making more power.

When new Hilux arrives in the local market next year, Ranger will no longer be offering the 2.0 BiTurbo. This creates a significant powertrain gap in the South African market for legacy double-cab bakkies with proven engines rated at 500 Nm, the torque figure bakkie owners want for overtaking and towing performance. It’s the need and wants question. That difference between expectations that gen-9 Hilux should have a new engine, with more power. And the reality that 500 Nm is plenty and Hilux’s 3.5t tow rating is more than most customers will ever use.

Toyota’s market research is peerless, and it believes that a large-capacity 4-cylinder diesel with simple turbocharging is what South African bakkie owners prefer. As opposed to the complexity of dual-stage turbocharging.

Crucially, the continuation of 2GD-FTV as new Hilux’s lead engine also means the continuation of its chain-driven timing chain, which is proven to be the most durable and reliable configuration for running engine ancillaries and timing. As demonstrated by Ford’s decision to discontinue the 2.0 BiTurbo diesel, with its wet-belt timing set-up.

Why no Prado 8-speed auto?

*Hilux auto still only has six gears. And you can’t use it in 4H on sealed road surfaces.*

New Hilux’s 2.8 turbodiesel makes enough power and torque. Some buyers might want the performance of a 6-cylinder diesel engine, like the Ranger 3.0 V6 turbodiesel, which has 184 kW of peak power, for better highway overtaking performance. Especially with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, which responds slickly and rapidly to on-demand acceleration needs at highway speeds.

This is the biggest issue with new Hilux: the carry-over 6-speed automatic transmission. In a double cab market where most rivals offer 8-, 9-, and 10-speed automatic transmissions, Hilux’s lack of gears is becoming an issue.

More gears might add internal complexity to the transmission, but also create smaller ratio changes between gears. That means much smoother shifting, especially when you need a powerful throttle response, kicking down several gears for overtaking at highway speeds.

Strangely, Hilux is continuing with the aged Aisin 6-speed automatic, when the same 2.8 turbodiesel in Prado is driving through an 8-speed auto. Which offers a superior driving experience. But the reason is cost and Hilux’s part-time 4×4 system.

Prado is all-wheel-drive, not a part-time 4×4. That means it can give owners all-wheel-drive traction and security on wet tar roads, when that Highveld thundestorm suddenly creates a deluge on the N1 north or any Gauteng ring road.

But Hilux has a 6-speed manual

*Ranger doesn’t offer luxury trim or high engine output double cabs with a manual gearbox. Hilux does.*

Unlike Prado, the Hilux isn’t all-wheel drive, it’s part-time 4×4. With a conventional transfer case that locks torque 50:50 between the front/rear axles when you engage 4H or 4L. That means you can’t use it in 4H on a tar road as backup traction security. And it also doesn’t offer torque-variable all-wheel drive in 4H, unlike Ford’s Ranger V6 or Mitsubishi Triton.

The Ranger V6 and Triton are both bakkies that can vary torque between the front and rear axle in 4H. That’s really important when you are rounding a high-speed corner on a Karoo dirt road. Because it gives a driver all the traction of all-wheel drive, without the dreaded understeer that happens with the 50/50 torque split in a conventional 4H transfer case with a part-time 4×4 system, like Hilux.

But Toyota Hilux owners will point out that new Hilux is one of the very few double cab bakkies, that still offers a 6-speed manual transmission across most of its powertrain and trim choices. Unlike Ranger and most other luxury trim 4×4 double cab models, which are automatic transmission-only.

And for some double cab buyers, especially those who do a lot of long distance off road driving, a manual gearbox is still very desirable drivetrain spec.

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

New Toyota Hilux bakkie fully revealed!

It’s official: the new Toyota Hilux has been revealed, based on the outgoing bakkie’s platform but now with fresh styling, a thoroughly renewed interior and an EV option…

First new Toyota Hilux in some 10 years unveiled in Thailand
Prospecton-built version scheduled to launch in SA in 2026
IMV platform and diesel engine retained but EV option added

The wait is finally over. Yes, after a string of leaks and a surprisingly brief teaser campaign, the new Toyota Hilux has been fully revealed. This 9th-generation bakkie’s officially unveiling in Thailand – including in fully electric form – comes some 10 years after the debut of its predecessor.

Why is this model so significant for South Africa? Well, the Hilux – which first appeared in Mzansi way back in 1969 – has held the title of SA’s best-selling vehicle overall for more than half a century. It’s also produced at Toyota SA Motors’ Prospecton facility in KwaZulu-Natal.

But back to the new, 9th-generation model just revealed in Bangkok. From what we can tell, the latest version of the bakkie retains the outgoing generation’s IMV platform, which gains new hydraulic engine mounts and shear-type cabin mounts to “reduce vibrations and enhance ride comfort”.

Look closely, however, and you’ll be able to spot a few familiar panels (such as the doors and roof), while the load bay appears to be carried over, too. It’s our understanding that the 9th-gen Hilux’s dimensions (including the wheelbase) are largely unchanged from those of the outgoing model.

New Toyota Hilux: design updates

The big design change, of course, comes up front, where most variants adopt a new honeycomb-style grille, reminiscent of that of the Corolla Cross, along with a sharper headlamp design. The squared-off front end additionally features retro-style “Toyota” lettering, a treatment extended to all derivatives.

Styling updates at the rear, meanwhile, are a little more subtle. Inside, the 9th-gen Toyota Hilux features a thoroughly overhauled interior, clearly inspired by that of the J250-series Land Cruiser Prado and boasting a pair of 12.3-inch screens in high-spec derivatives. Toyota says the redesigned cabin “brings a significant uplift in modernity, comfort, technology and ergonomics”.

There are also “newly developed” front and rear seats, with up to 8-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat with lumbar support adjustment and leather-accented upholstery, depending on the grade. The steering wheel, meanwhile, offers “improved ergonomics and an updated button layout”, according to Toyota.

This 9th-generation bakkie also becomes the first Hilux to be equipped with electric power steering, with Toyota promising “significant improvements to driveability and comfort”. Electric power steering, of course, allows the automaker to improve the functionality of its lane-keeping safety systems.

New Toyota Hilux: powertrain details

Under the bonnet, Toyota has seemingly opted to retain the familiar 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, with this “1GD-FTV” motor again generating peak outputs of 150 kW and 500 Nm – and again additionally offered in conjunction with 48V mild-hybrid technology. Interestingly, certain markets in Europe lose the 2.4-litre turbodiesel unit though seemingly retain the “established” naturally aspirated 2.7-litre petrol powerplant.

So, what about the battery-electric vehicle (BEV) version of the new Hilux mentioned earlier? Well, Toyota promises this battery-powered version – which wears the “Travo-e” badge in Thailand – maintains the “core capabilities” of the standard bakkie, offering 500 mm of wheel articulation, 700 mm of water wading and a braked towing capacity of 2 000 kg.

ALSO READ: Why the new Hilux uses Toyota’s old engines

The Hilux EV features dual electric motors (one on each axle), delivering combined power of 144 kW and drawing their urge from a 59 kWh battery pack offering a claimed 315 km of single-charge range. Interestingly, Toyota says it will also develop a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) version of the Hilux, with this powertrain option scheduled to be introduced in Europe and Oceania “starting in 2028”.

To refresh your memory, the 8th-gen Hilux debuted way back in 2015, before being introduced to South Africa in February 2016. The outgoing range currently comprises as many as 33 derivatives (including single-, extended- and double-cab variants), with prices ranging from R361 700 to R999 000.

Year to date at the end of October 2025, Toyota SA Motors has registered 30 163 units of the 8th-gen Hilux locally, putting the venerable bakkie in pole position to retain its title of Mzansi’s top seller for the year.

Find a Toyota Hilux on Cars.co.za!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When is the new 9th-generation Toyota Hilux scheduled to launch in South Africa?

A: The Prospecton-built version of the new Toyota Hilux is scheduled to launch in South Africa in 2026.

Q: What are the major design changes in the new Hilux?

A: The new model retains the outgoing platform but features fresh styling, most notably up front with a new honeycomb-style grille and sharper headlamps. The interior is thoroughly overhauled, inspired by the Land Cruiser Prado, and features a pair of 12.3-inch screens in high-spec derivatives.

Q: Will the new Toyota Hilux be available with an electric powertrain?

A: Yes, the new Hilux has been unveiled with a fully electric vehicle (BEV) option, which wears the “Travo-e” badge in Thailand. Additionally, Toyota is developing a Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) version scheduled for introduction in Europe and Oceania starting in 2028.

Defender Bakkie Unveiled

This Defender Bakkie blends practicality and off-road capability in one neat premium package, but there’s a catch…

The Land Rover Defender has been a massive success story for the brand and there really is a Defender for almost every customer profile. Well, almost every customer profile that is, until now. If there was one type that was missing, it would be the humble pick up!

The original Defender from back in the day offered this body style and we do wonder why it hasn’t made a comeback. Officially Jaguar Land Rover doesn’t make a Defender bakkie, but modified vehicle specialists Heritage Customs based in the Netherlands has created one.

Using the Defender 130 as the starting point, Heritage Customs modifies the rear passenger area and converts it into a classy bakkie. Useful for those who enjoy the great outdoors, the load bin looks substantial enough to carry items such as camping gear, farming implements or anything dirty that will ruin the Defender’s plush interior. Muddy wellington boots would be a great example.

Defender Bakkie Powertrain

As far as engines go, we assume that any powertrain from the Defender lineup is compatible, but the vehicle you see here is powered by the 5.0-litre supercharged petrol V8. That makes an impressive 368 kW and 610 Nm, giving it both commendable performance and one fantastic soundtrack.

The conversion process from 130 to Defender bakkie takes between 2-3 months, with Heritage Customs promising constant progress updates.

All the latest Land Rover Defender prices and specifications

How much does the Defender bakkie cost?

Exact figures are hard to pin down, as Heritage Customs charges a build slot deposit of €15k Euro to start the process. The complete conversion costs “lies around €65k Euro” and at the time of writing, there were two available build slots for early 2026 at €10k Euro. It is not clear if you will have to supply the Land Rover Defender 130 as a base.

Want to purchase a new or used Land Rover Defender? Browse vehicles for sale

Frequently Asked Questions

What body styles are available for the Land Rover Defender in South Africa?

The Land Rover Defender is available in three primary body styles in South Africa:

Defender 90: The compact, 3-door model, often with optional jump seating for a flexible 6-seat configuration.
Defender 110: The classic 5-door, mid-size SUV, offering up to seven seats (optional).
Defender 130: The extended 5-door model with a longer rear overhang, offering three rows of seating for up to eight passengers.

What engine options are available in the South African Defender range?

The Defender range offers a variety of petrol, diesel, and hybrid powertrains in South Africa, often denoted by their power output (PS or kW). Common options include:

**Diesel:** 3.0-litre Inline 6-cylinder diesel engines (e.g., D250, D300) with Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology.
**Petrol:** 3.0-litre Inline 6-cylinder petrol MHEV engines (e.g., P400) and the high-performance 5.0-litre Supercharged V8 (P525).
**Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV):** The P400e (Electric Hybrid) option is also available in some models.

What is the warranty and service plan included with a new Defender in South Africa?

New Land Rover Defender models in South Africa are covered by the **5-Year/100,000 km Land Rover Care Plan**. This comprehensive package typically includes the vehicle warranty, scheduled services, and maintenance, providing peace of mind up to the specified distance or time, whichever occurs first.

What is the Defender’s maximum wading depth?

The Land Rover Defender boasts an impressive maximum wading depth of **900 mm** (90 cm). This capability is supported by the Wade Sensing feature, which uses the 3D Surround Camera to monitor water depth and guide the driver.

Mazda CX-5 – Why you should buy it

The Mazda CX-5 remains the brand’s top-selling SUV worldwide. While a new model is just beyond the horizon and newer competitors have overtaken it in some areas, there are still plenty of reasons why the current, 2nd-gen Mazda CX-5 is a smart buy.

In terms of Japanese car brands, Toyota is the sales giant and the rest make up the numbers (Mazda, the maker of the CX-5, sits at the top of the bottom half). Out of the 8 firms (Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki, Mazda, Daihatsu, Subaru and Mitsubishi, in descending order), so skewed are the numbers that Toyota alone nearly moved more cars in 2024 than the 1st- and 2nd runners-up (Honda and Nissan) combined.

Last year, Mazda sold about 1-tenth of the mighty Toyota’s total, of which product-wise, globally the most popular were the CX-5, CX-30 and the Mazda3. It’s noteworthy that the CX-5 family car, now in its 2nd generation and approaching 9 years in age, endures as the brand’s showroom superstar. The model also won the Family Car category of the Cars.co.za Awards programme in 2017/18 and 2019/20.

So if you’re in the market for a mid-size crossover today, competing in a tightly-fought segment featuring newer heavy hitters such as the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Haval H6, Volkswagen Tiguan and Chery Tiggo 7 – should you still be considering Mazda’s stalwart? Yes, very much so.

Why should you consider buying a Mazda CX-5?

Ciro De Siena compared the (then new) Mazda CX-5 with the Hyundai Tucson in 2017:

Understated style

Even at the launch of the 1st-gen CX-5 in 2012, Mazda was praised for the model’s flowing exterior styling, with a sense of minimalism that continued inside. The 2nd-gen model, which debuted in South Africa in 2017, was an evolution of that design and a minor facelift (introduced in 2021), still shorn of dramatic creases and angles in the sheet metal, has helped the CX-5‘s looks stand the test of time.

See also: Mazda CX-5 (2021) Review

Cabin ergonomics & Refinement

Next to contemporary Volvos, the CX-5‘s cabin experience is a comparable symphony of stillness. Material usage and quality of fitment, combined with driver-centric ergonomics, are best-in-class.

Driver engagement

The latter translates to the driving experience, which, thanks to vectoring control, improves vehicle stability and dynamic lateral responsiveness that’s (still) unequalled in this competitive segment.

Enviable standard specification

The number of standard features of 2nd-gen Mazda CX-5 derivatives varies between the 3 available grades (Active, Dynamic and Carbon Edition), yet key features among all models are LED headlamps, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, a leather-clad steering wheel and transmission lever, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a reverse-view camera.

The mid-level Dynamic grade adds leather seats, keyless entry and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.

Over and above that, the top-spec Carbon Edition adds 19-inch alloy wheels, a Bose audio system that powers 10 speakers, a head-up display, as well as front and rear parking sensors.

See also: Mazda CX-5 (2025) Specs & Prices

How does the Mazda CX-5 compare with rivals?

In terms of fuel consumption, the Toyota RAV4 in hybrid form reigns supreme as the economy king, besting the Mazda CX-5‘s claimed still-commendable 6.9 L/100 km average by 2.1 litres per 100 km.

The CX-5 fights back against the Toyota with a more elegant and understated interior, even beating out the tech-heavy (and comparatively newer) Korean offerings of the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.

The Mazda is matched by the Volkswagen Tiguan for interior quality, although in terms of rands-per-feature, the CX-5 trumps it, with much of its standard equipment only fitted as optional extras in the VW.

Spec-wise, only the Chinese medium SUVs (such as the Chery Tiggo 7 and Haval H6) trump the CX-5, although they are, in turn, hampered by questions over brand equity and staying power in our market, given the sheer rate of proliferation and inevitable cannibalisation foreseen across those brands.

See also: Mazda CX-5 (2022) Review

The Mazda CX-5 is dependable

New Mazda CX-5s come with a 5-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/unlimited km service plan, including roadside assistance (with services required every 15 000 km). There are 33 dealers in South Africa and, if your CX-5 requires an extended stay in the workshop, a courtesy vehicle will be provided.

The latter is, however, an unlikely prospect as the current, 2nd-gen Mazda CX-5 has consistently scored a “Great” rating for Quality & Reliability in the annual global J.D. Power automotive survey.

On RepairPal.com, the Mazda CX-5 scores 4.5 out of 5 and is rated first, ahead of 25 other competing SUVs. And if internet forum owners’ forums are anything to go by, almost all current owners have indicated their willingness to purchase another CX-5 should the need or opportunity arise.

What are common Mazda CX-5 problems?

Across both generations, a slow or unresponsive infotainment unit has been reported, as has been premature brake wear. Early models are also said to have suffered from jerky acceleration. Unusually, rapid battery drain has also been noted.

Finally, in 2021 class action was filed in the US against Mazda over the fitment of defective Denso fuel pumps that could lead to engine failure in several models, including the CX-5. In March this year, the company was ordered to issue an extended warranty on replacement fuel pumps, reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses and free repairs to affected owners, to an estimated value of $172 million.

A new model is due in 2026, so there are good deals to be had

The recent unveiling of the upcoming 3rd-gen Mazda CX-5 has flipped the hourglass on the remaining stock of unsold current-gen vehicles. Everything must go to clear showroom floors before the new iteration of the CX-5 arrives in April next year, and with dealers looking to give their annual sales stats a final year-end boost, there’s every reason for them to sell run-out stock at discount prices.

Given its newness, the debuting CX-5 is almost guaranteed to be more expensive than the outgoing one.

What does a new Mazda CX-5 cost in South Africa?

The Mazda CX-5 range was considerably trimmed in 2024. At the entry-level end, the manual 2.0 Active was discontinued; while at the top, both all-wheel-drive 2.5-litre petrol and excellent 2.2-litre turbodiesel models were culled, leaving just a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre 4-cylinder that produces 121 kW/213 Nm and drives the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission in the surviving derivatives.

Mazda CX-5 2.0 Active	R570 500
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Dynamic	R617 900
Mazda CX-5 2.0 Carbon Edition	R688 400

Prices (correct in November 2025) include a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and 5-year/100 000 km service plan.

New Mazda CX-5 Specs & Prices in South Africa

Find a new/used Mazda CX-5 listed for sale on Cars.co.za

What does a used Mazda CX-5 cost in South Africa?

Of the approximate 236 units of the 2nd-gen Mazda CX-5 (model year 2017 and up) listed on Cars.co.za in November 2025, most used examples were registered in 2021 with mileages varying between 33 000 km and 158 000 km.

R200 000-R300 000: Take note, car shoppers: low asking prices do not necessarily translate to high-milers. In this bracket, we found a pair of Mazda CX-5 units with suspiciously low mileages (4 000 km) for their age, although admittedly, they trended on the mid-to-upper side of the price scale. Of the 94 vehicles on offer, only 12 were turbodiesel-powered and 13 were equipped with manual gearboxes.

Thereafter, mileages jumped to 30 000 km, with a further 18 offerings registering mileages of 75 000 km or less on the odometer, which all appear to offer good used value.

R300 000-R400 000: In this bracket, 80% of units listed were petrol versions, with only 5 cars available with manual transmissions. The least expensive example happened to be a 2018 iteration of the venerable 2.2 DE Akera AWD, having clocked 114 000 km and going for R304 000.

R400 000-R500 000: Here, just under a 3rd of the total stock count was comprised by the now-discontinued all-wheel-drive Akera turbodiesel variant. The best-looking proposition was a 2024 Active Auto that had covered 15 000 km and was listed for R410 000.

R500 000-R600 000: This is the price range in which 2 of the 3 current CX-5 variants sell for when new. Eight of the 28 cars in this bracket were flagship Carbon Editions. The best bargain we found was a 2025 Carbon Edition with 3 000 km on the clock, selling for R118k below the recommended retail price.

Above R600 000: Representing the uppermost price bracket for the CX-5, just 3 examples of demo or nearly-new Carbon versions fell into this category.

View ALL new/used Mazda CX-5 stock listed on Cars.co.za

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Mazda CX-5

Q: What are the key standard features available across the 2nd-gen Mazda CX-5 models?

A: Key standard features across all grades (Active, Dynamic, and Carbon Edition) include LED headlamps, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Q: How does the Mazda CX-5 compare to rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan in terms of standard specification?

A: The Mazda CX-5 is matched by the Volkswagen Tiguan for interior quality, but in terms of rands-per-feature, the CX-5 trumps it, with many of its standard equipment only fitted as optional extras in the VW.

Q: What are some common problems or defects that have been reported across both generations of the CX-5?

A: Reported common problems include a slow or unresponsive infotainment unit, premature brake wear, jerky acceleration in early models, and rapid battery drain. There was also a class action filed in 2021 regarding defective Denso fuel pumps.

Q: What is the warranty and service plan included with a new Mazda CX-5 in South Africa?

A: New Mazda CX-5s come with a 5-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/unlimited km service plan, which includes roadside assistance.

Lepas SA says it will ‘definitely be in top 10’ in 5 years

Though Lepas has yet to officially launch in South Africa, the Chery-backed brand’s general manager says the marque will “definitely be in the top 10” within 5 years…

Lepas has an “aggressive sales plan” for SA
Chery-backed brand launching in Q1 2026
ICE, PHEV and BEV powertrains confirmed

Lepas South Africa’s general manager says the Chery-backed brand – which is scheduled to launch locally in the opening quarter of 2026 – will “definitely” be among the country’s 10 best-selling automakers in 5 years from now.

Jay Jay Botes, General Manager of Lepas South Africa (and indeed General Manager of Chery South Africa), made the comments during a question-and-answer session that formed part of an online media briefing.

*The Lepas 8 will seemingly be positioned as the flagship.*

“In 5 years from now, we’ll definitely be in the top 10, hopefully taking spot number 7 or 6. We’ve got quite an aggressive sales plan for the Lepas brand, so we definitely will be in the top 10 within the next 5 years,” Botes reiterated, before quipping “hopefully [within] a year”.

Established globally as recently as April 2025, Lepas – just like Omoda & Jaecoo and the upcoming iCaur division – falls under the Chery Group banner. According to Botes, the brand plans to launch with the Lepas 4, before introducing the larger Lepas 6 and Lepas 8 “in a phased approach”. These crossovers look likely to leverage Chery’s existing platforms and powertrains.

*The first Lepas rolled off the line in China as recently as July 2025.*

Though pricing remains under wraps for now, Botes said the Lepas brand would offer “accessible premium” vehicles, suggesting “traditional premium models” are “becoming really inaccessible” (seemingly making reference to the big German brands).

He furthermore confirmed Lepas would be positioned “a little bit above the Omoda & Jaecco space”, though added the newcomer would offer “a premium product but not at a premium price”.

*The Lepas 8 (left) and Lepas 6 (right).*

“We’ll have different engine derivatives as well: ICE [internal combustion engines], PHEV [plug-in hybrid electric vehicles] as well as BEV [battery electric vehicles] coming a little bit later in the year [2026],” Botes said.

Year to date at the end of October 2025, the list of South Africa’s 10 best-selling automakers contains a pair of Chinese firms: GWM (including Haval, Tank and Ora) in 6th and the Chery brand in 8th. After a record sales haul in October, Omoda & Jaecoo currently finds itself in 14th position year to date, a spot ahead of the likewise Chery-linked Jetour marque.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When is the Lepas brand scheduled to launch in South Africa?

A: The Chery-backed Lepas brand is scheduled to launch locally in the opening quarter of 2026 (Q1 2026).

Q: What is Lepas South Africa’s sales target within the next 5 years?

A: Jay Jay Botes, General Manager of Lepas South Africa, stated that the brand has an “aggressive sales plan” and will “definitely be in the top 10” best-selling automakers in the country within the next 5 years, hoping for spot number 6 or 7.

Q: What types of powertrains will Lepas offer in the South African market?

A: Lepas confirmed it will offer different engine derivatives, including ICE (internal combustion engines) and PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles), with BEV (battery electric vehicles) coming a little later in 2026.

‘We were complacent’ about Chinese threat, says Kia SA boss

Kia SA’s local boss admits the brand was “complacent” in the face of Chinese competition, though says relaunching certain models has seen it claw back market share…

Local CEO admits Kia “got hurt” by Chinese influx
Kia SA’s market share is trending upwards again
As many as 6 new model launches planned for 2026

The head of Kia in South Africa admits the brand was “complacent” in the face of increased Chinese competition, though adds the company has already clawed back some of its lost market share.

Paul Turnbull, Chief Executive Officer of Kia South Africa since July 2024, made the comments during an interview conducted in Cars.co.za’s custom-built podcast booth at Naamsa’s South African Auto Week 2025 in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape at the start of October.

Kia Sonet — *The Sonet remains Kia’s top seller locally.*

“Where the Chinese positioned themselves is right where Kia has positioned itself. Our big players are in the small SUV segment, so we suffered – we did. We were complacent. We thought the Chinese might come in and go away – and it wouldn’t affect us – but we got hurt,” Turnbull said.

In 2023, Kia slipped 2 spots to 10th on the list of SA’s best-selling automakers, with sales falling 16.2% year on year and its total market share dropping from 4.3% to 3.6%. In 2024, when Chinese firm Chery broke into the top 10 for the first time, Kia fell further to 11th, with sales declining 22.6% year on year and its total market share shrinking to 2.9%.

Kia Seltos — *A new Seltos is due in SA in 2026.*

“Kia were suffering – they were bleeding market share. Our market share was down to just over 2.0% when I came in. And the first thing I did was start engaging with the Koreans [Kia’s head office in Seoul] because we weren’t competitive anymore.

“Great cars, probably wrongly specced, wrong price. So, we had to go back to the drawing board, sit with them [Kia’s global representatives], do the market analysis and get their support to relaunch the products at the right price.

Kia Picanto LS — *The updated Picanto launched in SA in April 2024.*

“I was also lucky that we launched 2 or 3 new products at the same time, so we could launch them aggressively. But really what’s it done, it’s made everybody work, because you have to have the right product at the right price, or you don’t sell,” he said.

Year to date at the end of October 2025, Kia has registered 15 181 units in South Africa (already eclipsing 2024’s total of 14 778 units), which translates to a total market share of 3.1% and sees it return to the top 10. Meanwhile, the brand’s slice of the new passenger-vehicle market (that is, excluding light-commercial vehicles) currently stands at 4.0%.

Kia Tasman bakkie — *The new Tasman is due in SA around the middle of 2026.*

“There was always competition before the Chinese, but I think the Chinese have just accelerated that competition – or doubled it,” Turnbull said.

Kia South Africa plans to launch up to 6 new vehicles locally in 2026, including the new Tasman bakkie, the Carens, the Syros, the new Seltos, the facelifted Sportage and potentially a fully electric vehicle (likely the EV3).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why did Kia South Africa lose market share recently?

A: Kia South Africa’s CEO, Paul Turnbull, admitted the brand was “complacent” in the face of increased Chinese competition, which positioned itself directly against Kia’s key segment (small SUVs). This seemingly led to a drop in sales and market share.

Q: What steps did Kia SA take to begin regaining market share?

A: CEO Paul Turnbull says he engaged with Kia’s head office to re-evaluate the product strategy, noting the cars were “wrongly specced, wrong price”. The company secured support to relaunch products at a more competitive price and aggressively launched 2 or 3 new products simultaneously.

Q: What are Kia SA’s future plans for new model launches in 2026?

A: Kia South Africa plans to launch as many as 6 new vehicles locally in 2026. These are expected to include the new Tasman bakkie, the Carens, the Syros, the new Seltos, the facelifted Sportage and potentially a fully electric vehicle (likely the EV3).

Tata Tiago Review: We drive one of SA’s most affordable cars

David Taylor drives the Tata Tiago 1.2 XT to see if this highly anticipated entry into the South African budget-car segment can compete with the established leaders.

The Return of the Tata Passenger Car

Fighting for the Budget Crown: Pricing & Rivals

On the Road: Tata Tiago Drivetrain & Agility

Interior Features & Safety Specification

What does the Tata Tiago cost in South Africa?

Summary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

New Hilux – what looks new but isn’t

The new Hilux might use old engines and gearboxes, but the design is definitely all-new, or is it? Will Hilux buyers be happy with another decade of (very) average rear seat comfort because of a legacy platform?

Hilux chassis is tough enough

The TNGA-F chassis question

Rear seat legroom?

How IMV limits Hilux cab comfort

Omoda C7 (2025) Price & Specs

The new Omoda C7 has arrived in SA, slotting in above the popular C5 and available from launch in turbopetrol and plug-in hybrid form. Here’s what this crossover costs…

What is the price of the Omoda C7 in South Africa?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Omoda C7

Related content

GWM SA to ‘aggressively’ relaunch Ora EV brand in 2026

The head of GWM SA says the Chinese firm “has a plan” to relaunch its Ora electric vehicle sub-brand locally in 2026 and “be more aggressive” in the EV market…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Related content

Why new Hilux uses Toyota’s old engines and drivetrains

The 9th-generation Hilux doesn’t have any new engines. Or gearboxes. Is Toyota being cheap or does it know more about real double cab customer engine and drivetrain needs than its rivals?

The Toyota way is traditional

The carry-over engine issue

Why no Prado 8-speed auto?

But Hilux has a 6-speed manual

New Toyota Hilux bakkie fully revealed!

It’s official: the new Toyota Hilux has been revealed, based on the outgoing bakkie’s platform but now with fresh styling, a thoroughly renewed interior and an EV option…

New Toyota Hilux: design updates

New Toyota Hilux: powertrain details

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Related content

Defender Bakkie Unveiled

This Defender Bakkie blends practicality and off-road capability in one neat premium package, but there’s a catch…

Defender Bakkie Powertrain

How much does the Defender bakkie cost?

Frequently Asked Questions

What body styles are available for the Land Rover Defender in South Africa?

What engine options are available in the South African Defender range?

What is the warranty and service plan included with a new Defender in South Africa?

What is the Defender’s maximum wading depth?

Mazda CX-5 – Why you should buy it

The Mazda CX-5 remains the brand’s top-selling SUV worldwide. While a new model is just beyond the horizon and newer competitors have overtaken it in some areas, there are still plenty of reasons why the current, 2nd-gen Mazda CX-5 is a smart buy.

Why should you consider buying a Mazda CX-5?

Understated style

Cabin ergonomics & Refinement

Driver engagement

Enviable standard specification

How does the Mazda CX-5 compare with rivals?

The Mazda CX-5 is dependable

What are common Mazda CX-5 problems?

A new model is due in 2026, so there are good deals to be had

What does a new Mazda CX-5 cost in South Africa?

What does a used Mazda CX-5 cost in South Africa?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Mazda CX-5

Related Content:

Lepas SA says it will ‘definitely be in top 10’ in 5 years

Though Lepas has yet to officially launch in South Africa, the Chery-backed brand’s general manager says the marque will “definitely be in the top 10” within 5 years…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Related content

‘We were complacent’ about Chinese threat, says Kia SA boss

Kia SA’s local boss admits the brand was “complacent” in the face of Chinese competition, though says relaunching certain models has seen it claw back market share…

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Related content

The 9^th-generation Hilux doesn’t have any new engines. Or gearboxes. Is Toyota being cheap or does it know more about real double cab customer engine and drivetrain needs than its rivals?