Patent images show a BYD small bakkie will be revealed soon, positioned under the Shark 6. Here’s what we know so far.
Smaller bakkie being planned for European introduction by BYD
Positioned under the Shark 6
Should retain the plug-in hybrid powertrain
The BYD Shark 6 has been quite the success story for the Chinese new-energy vehicle brand. Granted, BYD doesn’t share its sales figures locally but when you see one in traffic, it’s highly likely that it will be a Shark 6 double-cab bakkie. Some of our dealer friends have said that demand outstrips supply…
It’s not just locally either as other bakkie-obsessed markets have shown considerable interest in the Shark 6. But, what if you wanted something smaller? According to CarNewsChina, the BYD small bakkie will have its global debut before the end of 2025.
The images you see here are straight from the European Union’s Intellectual Property Office, which gives you a clue about where the BYD small bakkie will be sold. The source article went on to predict that this BYD bakkie will be riding on a monocoque setup, as opposed to a ladderframe chassis – you know, the default platform for 99% of ever bakkie in South Africa.
Going the monocoque route will mean compromised offroad capability, but the reality is that on-road refinement will be superior. We expect this new small bakkie to use BYD’s plug-in hybrid technology, combining electric motors with an internal combustion engine.
Of course we had to make our own render! Hit or miss?
BYD Small Bakkie in SA?
There’s no official name for the new BYD small bakkie, but we expect it to follow the same naming convention like its bigger sibling. BYD already has the rights to “Shark” in South Africa, so they wouldn’t have to apply for “Shark 5”.
Given SA’s appetite for the pickup, we suspect this BYD small bakkie will be earmarked for our market sooner rather than later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of vehicle is the BYD Shark 6?
The BYD Shark 6 is a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) double cab bakkie (pickup truck). It is notable for being the first PHEV bakkie in the South African market and is built on BYD’s dedicated DMO Super Hybrid Off-road Platform.
What is the price of the BYD Shark 6 in South Africa?
The BYD Shark 6, typically offered in a single “Premium” derivative at launch, is priced at approximately R959,900 (Recommended Retail Price). This makes it a high-end option in the local double cab market.
What are the key performance figures for the BYD Shark 6?
The Shark 6 is known for its high power output, boasting a total system maximum power of 321 kW and a total maximum torque of 650 Nm. This allows it to achieve a 0–100 km/h acceleration time of just 5.7 seconds, making it one of the most powerful bakkies on the market.
What is the electric-only range and total driving range?
The BYD Shark 6 uses a large 29.58 kWh Blade Battery, offering a pure electric range of approximately 85 km (WLTP) for urban commuting. Its total combined driving range (petrol and electric) is approximately 670 km (WLTP).
New record for Suzuki! SA’s new-vehicle sales in October 2025
In October 2025, SA’s new-vehicle market put in its best performance in over a decade, marking 13 consecutive months of year-on-year growth. Here’s your industry overview, including the top-selling brands…
Local new-vehicle sales surge to 55 956 units
Market’s best performance since March 2015
Suzuki Auto SA breaks sales record yet again
In October 2025, South Africa’s new-vehicle market hit a 10-year high, with local sales increasing 16.0% year on year to 55 956 units. That’s not only the SA market’s best showing since March 2015 but also the 13th straight instance of month-on-month growth (and the 4th consecutive month of 50 000+ sales). In addition, October’s sales were 2.3% higher than September 2025’s already strong showing.
According to Naamsa, the local new-vehicle industry’s “upward trajectory” was supported by “easing inflation, a firmer rand [and] continued signs of improving consumer sentiment”. New-vehicle exports from South Africa, meanwhile, increased 0.5% year on year to 32 659 units in October 2025.
The industry representative body added that 79.1% of October 2025’s total reported domestic figure of 55 956 units represented sales through the dealer channel, while an estimated – and, we might add, rather lofty – 16.6% were sales to the new-vehicle rental industry, 2.2% to government and 2.1% to industry corporate fleets.
As has been the case for some time now, the new passenger-vehicle market was the key driver of overall growth, reaching 39 610 units (up 14.8% year on year) or its highest monthly tally since October 2014. Ahead of SA’s peak travel season, the rental channel accounted for a considerable 21.7% of that figure. Meanwhile, local registrations of light-commercial vehicles (LCVs) increased 23.9% year on year to 13 361 units.
Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), described the market’s continued growth as “exceptional”, adding the latest sales figures were “even better than we anticipated”.
“Foot traffic in franchised dealerships was encouraging throughout October, but the magnitude of these results, achieved despite tight household budgets and historically low consumer confidence, is remarkable,” he said, before suggesting interest-rate cuts (implemented earlier in the year), easing fuel prices and a stronger rand all helped “improve affordability at the point of sale”.
Lebo Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank, said the industry’s performance over the year thus far showed “how improving sentiment and a more confident economy are translating directly into mobility decisions”.
“Demand remains high, but the buying behaviour behind it has evolved. Consumers are coming back to the showroom with calculators in hand. It’s less about excitement and more about smart, sustainable choices that fit long-term budgets,” Gaoaketse added, suggesting modern buyers were “looking for predictability and value rather than prestige”.
New-vehicle sales summary for October 2025
Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 55 956 units increased by 16.0% (7 734 units) compared to October 2024.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 39 610 units increased by 14.8% (5 107 units) compared to October 2024.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 13 361 units increased by 23.9% (2 579 units) compared to October 2024.
Export sales of 32 659 units increased by 0.5% (178 units) compared to October 2024.
10 best-selling automakers in SA in October 2025
Hyundai Automotive SA climbed back to 4th in October.
Yes, Toyota SA Motors (including Lexus and Hino) was again top of the charts in October 2025, even if its total of 13 559 units represented a 4.1% month-on-month decline. Still, that figure stands as the Japanese automaker’s 2nd highest effort of 2025 and translates to a considerable 24.2% market share.
Meanwhile, Suzuki Auto SA again placed 2nd – as it has every single month so far this year – but set yet another all-time record in the process. In October 2025, Suzuki registered a whopping 6 890 units (up 13.5% month on month), beating its previous best of 6 534 units, which it achieved as recently as August 2025.
Volkswagen Group Africa (including the Audi brand) again completed the podium, improving its sales 7.9% month on month to 6 221 units. For the record, that’s the first time this year the German group has breached the 6 000-unit mark and its top performance since November 2024.
After slipping to 5th in September, Hyundai Automotive SA grabbed back 4th position in October 2025, registering 3 017 units (representing marginal month-on-month growth of 0.4%). That meant Ford Motor Company of SA fell back to 5th place, with local registrations dipping 4.8% month on month to 2 946 units.
GWM SA (2 805 units, its highest figure this year) held strong in 6th on the back of 7.1% month-on-month growth, while Isuzu Motors SA’s 12.3% month-on-month improvement (to finish on 2 784 units, likewise a high for 2025 thus far) wasn’t enough to see it climb out of 7th spot. Chery SA retained 8th, despite sales sliding 2.4% (compared to September) to 2 210 units.
Continuing to steadily regain market share, Kia SA grew 6.0% month on month to 1 808 units, though remained in 9th position. The final ranking in the top 10 again went to Mahindra SA, which registered a 1.8% month-on-month improvement in local sales to end on 1 551 units.
So, there was no space in the top 10 for Renault SA (1 446 units), which again had to settle for 11th. Nissan SA (1 360 units) stayed in 12th place, while Omoda & Jaecoo (1 311 units) set another sales record to climb to 13th. BMW Group SA – which includes the BMW and Mini brands – thus slipped to 14th (with a Naamsa-estimated 1 306 units), while Stellantis SA (921 units) rounded out the top 15 with its own new sales record.
1. Toyota – 13 559 units
2. Suzuki – 6 890 units
3. Volkswagen Group – 6 221 units
4. Hyundai – 3 017 units
5. Ford – 2 946 units
6. GWM – 2 805 units
7. Isuzu – 2 784 units
8. Chery – 2 210 units
9. Kia – 1 808 units
10. Mahindra – 1 551 units
SA’s sales outlook for the rest of 2025
With 2 months of the year left, what’s next for the industry? Well, total reported domestic sales year to date at the end of October 2025 stand at 493 053 units, suggesting the local market is well on track to beat 2024’s total of 515 712 units. In fact, 2025 looks likely to mark SA’s return to pre-COVID levels of sales (for the record, 536 612 units were sold locally in 2019).
Naamsa says South Africa’s “macro-economic backdrop” continues to “show encouraging signs”. The industry representative body adds that fuel costs remain “relatively contained”, while “competitive pricing and softer vehicle inflation” continue to support affordability in select segments.
The industry representative body furthermore points out that a “more stable currency environment” has helped ease imported-vehicle price pressures, while separately adding that the expected interest-rate reductions “in early 2026” bode positively for big-ticket consumer spending and fleet renewal cycles.
Meanwhile, NADA’s Cohen says he expects the market to “hold steady into year-end, supported by Black Friday promotions as well as continued rand stability”. He also suggests upcoming fuel-price cuts will provide “further relief for consumers and businesses alike”.
“There are still uncertainties ahead which include the upcoming interest-rate decision to the rollout of AARTO and broader macroeconomic pressures, however, consumer appetite for new vehicles remains resilient,” concludes Cohen.
Finally, Gaoaketse believes the market will remain “steady and confident” as 2025 draws to a close, saying the “current level of activity shows an industry that has found its rhythm again, not one overheating”.
“Improving macro-economic conditions are supporting lending appetite and giving more consumers the confidence to take on medium-term debt. Many are also hopeful that further interest-rate cuts early next year will improve affordability even more,” says Gaoaketse.
The new Toyota Hilux is just around the corner, with the first teaser having been released and the next-generation bakkie’s official reveal date finally confirmed…
Toyota drops teaser video for new Hilux
Official reveal date set for 10 November
15-second clip hints at new design cues
After a string of leaked imagesand plenty of speculation, the first teaser of the new Toyota Hilux has been released, with the Japanese brand also confirming the next-generation bakkie’s official reveal date.
Yes, Toyota Motor Thailand has released a short teaser video that includes a handful of shadowy shots of what will be the 9th-generation Hilux. The 15-second clip (which we’ve embedded below) also confirms a reveal date of 10 November 2025.
As with the outgoing model, the new Toyota Hilux will be built in several factories around the world, including Thailand. The latest version of the bakkie is also expected to again be produced at Toyota SA Motors’ Prospecton facility in KwaZulu-Natal. The brand’s local division has yet to announce a launch date, but an official market introduction is expected at some point in 2026.
But back to the new bakkie. While official details are still very thin on the ground, it appears that the new Hilux will retain the IMV platform of the current-generation version rather than switching to Toyota’s more advanced TNGA-F underpinnings. In fact, spy shots suggest the doors and certain panels will be carried over.
In addition, the 2026 Hilux is widely expected to stick with Toyota’s 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (again likely offered with or without 48V mild-hybrid technology). As a reminder, this 1GD-FTV engine currently makes 150 kW and 500 Nm in standard guise, while an updated version employed by the GR Sport derivative generates 165 kW and 550 Nm.
The teaser video gives us a glimpse of the new Hilux’s redesigned front and rear ends, as well as a quick look at the revised bakkie’s wheels. Based on the clip (which shows a double-cab variant), we can expect slimmer headlamps and taillamps, along with simple “Toyota” lettering on the grille (the latter similar in design to the outgoing GR Sport flagship).
While the teaser video doesn’t show the new bakkie’s cabin, leaked images suggest it will draw heavily on that of the J250-generation Land Cruiser Prado, perhaps even scoring that SUV’s 12.3-inch touchscreen display.
To refresh your memory, the 8th-gen Hilux debuted way back in 2015, before being introduced to South Africa in February 2016. The Hilux has held the title of Mzansi’s best-selling vehicle for well over 50 years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When is the official reveal date for the new Toyota Hilux?
A: The official reveal date for the 9th-generation Toyota Hilux has been confirmed for 10 November 2025.
Q: What are the expected engine and platform details for the 2026 Hilux?
A: The new Hilux is expected to retain the IMV platform of the current model and will likely stick with Toyota’s 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (1GD-FTV), potentially featuring 48V mild-hybrid technology.
Q: When is the new Toyota Hilux expected to launch in South Africa?
A: While an official launch date has not been announced by Toyota SA Motors, an introduction to the South African market is expected at some point in 2026.
Why Toyota SA has ‘no plans’ for new Quest-like model
The head of Toyota in South Africa explains why the Japanese brand currently has no plans to offer a fresh prolonged-lifecycle model like the Tazz or Corolla Quest…
No plans for another prolonged-lifecycle model “at the moment”
Production of Corolla Quest ended at Prospecton late in 2024
“Competitive position” of imported models means there’s no scope
Over the years, Toyota South Africa Motors has rolled out several highly successful locally built “prolonged lifecycle” models, from the popular Conquest-based Tazz to the recently discontinued Corolla Quest. But the brand’s local boss says there are currently no plans for another.
Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa Motors, 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.
“Historically, we had quite a few programmes where we’ve tried to take a previous generation, refresh it and use that price point to create a new segment. Before Tazz was the Conquest – you might remember that – and those were all very successful,” he told us.
Volkswagen employs a similar strategy with its Kariega-built Polo Vivo (based on the 5th-gen Polo hatch), while Isuzu does the same with its Struandale-made D-Max Gen 6. In each case, by the time the initial model’s lifecycle ended, the significant sum already invested had likely been amortised. That means design, engineering and tooling costs for the so-called “legacy” vehicle were all already largely covered.
The original Corolla Quest debuted back in 2014.
So, why is Toyota SA Motors no longer pursuing a prolonged-lifecycle strategy? Well, while any such opportunity would depend greatly on which vehicles are in production locally, Kirby suggested shifts in technology and the budget-friendly positioning of imported models – we suspect he’s referring to Suzuki-based, Indian-sourced vehicles like the Vitz and Starlet here – also played a role.
“At the moment, we don’t have any plans to [use] a previous-generation vehicle like that. The technology shifts and the competitive position of the vehicles that we’re getting – both imported and locally – don’t really provide us with that scope at the moment. We’re always keeping our minds open to it, but we don’t have anything in that space at the moment,” he emphasised.
Production of the 2nd-gen Corolla Quest ended late in 2024.
Toyota SA Motors currently builds the Hilux, Fortuner, Corolla Cross and Hiace Ses’fikile (technically a prolonged-lifecycle version of the H200-series Hiace) at its Prospecton plant in KwaZulu-Natal. Production of the 2nd-generation Corolla Quest – derived from the 11th-gen Corolla sedan and serving as the brand’s most recent prolonged-lifecycle model – ended late in 2024.
Of course, the last Corolla Quest was sold alongside the 12th-gen Corolla sedan. Since the latter is imported from Japan rather than built locally, Toyota’s SA division unfortunately won’t have the opportunity to repurpose it as a locally built 3rd-gen Quest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does Toyota South Africa plan to introduce another prolonged-lifecycle model like the Tazz or Corolla Quest?
A: No, Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa Motors, stated that the brand currently has “no plans” for another prolonged-lifecycle model “at the moment”.
Q: What reasons did Toyota South Africa give for not pursuing a prolonged-lifecycle strategy currently?
A: The main reasons cited by CEO Andrew Kirby are shifts in technology and the “competitive position” of imported budget-friendly models (likely referring to vehicles like the Vitz and Starlet), which don’t provide the scope for such a strategy at the moment.
Q: When did the production of the most recent prolonged-lifecycle model, the Corolla Quest, end?
A: Production of the 2nd-generation Corolla Quest, which was derived from the 11th-gen Corolla sedan, ended late in 2024 at Toyota’s Prospecton plant.
Nissan’s electric pioneer enters its 3rd generation in a distinctly different shape. We drive the latest iteration of the Nissan Leaf in Denmark, where most new cars sold are electric vehicles (EVs).
Nissan South Africa was so far ahead of the curve when it launched the 1st-gen Leaf in Mzansi nearly 15 years ago that these days, most locals have forgotten about the EV pioneer.
Perhaps predictably, the pricey Leaf did not light up the local sales charts in South Africa; the 2nd-gen model was unveiled in Tokyo in 2017 – my colleague Ciro De Siena was there – but the local firm decided to skip it. But then, it was always more of an image builder in Mzansi than a car with volume aspirations.
Whether South Africans will ever be able to buy the new, 3rd-gen Nissan Leaf remains to be seen. I would not bet on it – Nissan South Africa is fighting bigger challenges at the moment, and at the global launch in Denmark, Nissan said the new model was only confirmed for Europe, America and Japan.
Nevertheless, the opportunity to drive it came as a result of my duties as South Africa’s World Car of the Year juror. Nissan wanted to make sure many WCOTY judges got behind the wheel of “Leaf 3.0” before voting started for the 2026 World Car Awards programme – clearly, it believes it has a potential winner.
Crossover aesthetics
Whereas the first 2 iterations of the Nissan Leaf resembled C-segment hatchbacks, the 3rd-gen model looks more crossover-like. Developed markets prefer these “coupe” high-riders these days, as evidenced during our stay in Europe, where we saw countless Tesla Model Ys and Volkswagen ID.4s, among others.
Those with sharp eyes will note that the Leaf’s rear lights are inspired by those of the ’90s Nissan 300ZX (and current Z). There are also some truly striking alloy wheels to choose from, up to 19 inches in size. You may also notice the appearance of the =||| (2 / 3) symbol in various places on and in the Leaf.
In Japanese, it translates simply as Nissan. The symbol is supposedly hidden in 23 places in the car (again, note the importance of numbers 2 and 3), so if you want to go easter-egg hunting, well, you can.
Based on the brand’s CMF-EV platform, which also underpins the bigger Ariya EV, the Nissan Leaf has aero-optimised bodywork – flush door handles, for example, and lots of underbody airflow detailing, to achieve an excellent drag coefficient of 0.25.
With its rigid, relatively light structure and aero excellence, Nissan’s pursuit was lightness and efficiency… From the design phase, it wanted to achieve excellent real-world long-distance range, but without just going for bigger batteries (and the resultant weight).
It helps, of course, that the 2026 Nissan Leaf is probably unique in the world in that it is a 3rd-generation EV, and that it is the product of all Nissan’s learnings with the previous two iterations. Nissan will understand better than most what consumers actually want… and how they use their EVs.
Battery and Range
The 2026 Nissan Leaf is offered with 2 battery options: 52 kWh and 75 kWh. The higher-capacity battery enables the model to produce peak outputs of 160 kW and 355 Nm of torque, enough for a (claimed) brisk 0-100 kph sprint time of 7.6 seconds. Top speed is limited to 160 kph.
More importantly, it allows for a long-distance range of 622 km (WLTP). During the launch programme, we were given a very long route, taking in the Danish countryside, and there was no planned recharging. Nissan’s confidence was evident.
The company claims that even when driving at highway speeds of up to 130 kph (high for Europe, and high for EVs), the range will be 330 km.
It is also worth noting that the smaller-battery Leaf still offers a range of above 440 km (WLTP) and there isn’t too much of a performance penalty either (130 kW/345 Nm) and sprints to 100 kph just 1 sec slower.
Nissan says consumption (of the 75kWh car) is as low as 13.8 kWh/100 km and that the 75 kWh Leaf supports 150 kW DC fast charging, recovering up to 420 km in range in just 30 minutes of charging.
Another element that remains relatively rare (certainly in terms of daily usability) in South Africa is the Leaf’s so-called Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability.
It offers 3.6 kW output to charge devices or power cooking gear, when camping, for example. It is also future-ready in terms of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capability – it can return energy to the grid.
2026 Nissan Leaf: Cabin & Features
Step inside, and the 2026 Nissan Leaf is quite a radical departure from the first 2 generations, which represents a clear shift away from traditional hatchback architecture.
Two 14.3-inch screens dominate the horizontal fascia, while different textures and materials (notably light cloth) stretch from the door panels to the top of the fascia, adding a feeling of lightness and luxury.
Look up, and you’ll note a neat full-length sunroof with segmented dimming functionality – consequently, a sliding cover is not needed. The sunroof is fitted as standard on higher-specification variants.
Another major talking point is the presence of Google built-in – this means the Google system is part of the car. In other words, and as an example, it can use its knowledge of the car’s remaining charge, traffic situations on the route, etc., to better plan journeys, keeping in mind charge station availability.
Of course, Apple CarPlay is standard, but not built-in (so when using CarPlay, some of the car- and situation-specific information isn’t integrated – as is the case when using CarPlay in a “normal” car utilising the system). The other advantage of the built-in Google tech is that all the app icons and general UX (including Google Maps) will be familiar.
Measuring 4 350 mm in length, this very different-looking Leaf hasn’t changed hugely compared with its predecessor in terms of size. But as a consequence of better packaging, it does seem more spacious.
I spent some time in the rear seat (behind my own stretched-out front-seat position – I am 1.8 metres tall), and there was definitely enough knee room. Space for feet is a little tight, however.
The boot is claimed to be able to accommodate up to 437 litres of luggage and boasts 2 floor levels.
There is no “frunk”, and instead Nissan has prioritised in-car storage with numerous compartments and surfaces for smaller items.
What is the 2026 Nissan Leaf like to drive?
My shuttle from Copenhagen airport to the launch venue was in Nissan’s Ariya, a striking, bigger electric crossover that is based on the same platform. I emerged from that passenger ride thinking that the quietness and ride quality were impressive.
The CMF-EV underpinnings certainly appear to be excellent, then, because the Leaf felt much the same as its bigger sibling as we headed out on Copenhagen’s roads.
Even on big 19-inch wheels, it rides beautifully and quietly – yes, there are some occasionally coarse and bumpy surfaces, even on generally excellent Danish roads.
The Google built-in tech also brings some immediate familiarity into the cabin, helpful when you’re in a new car for the first time, and also don’t know the area you’re driving in. I also liked the Bose speakers built into the headrests, as the driving instructions from the navigation were crystal clear.
As is the case with many EVs, you can pretty much drive the 2026 Nissan Leaf with 1 pedal, but the Leaf also allows you to shift between various levels of strength for the regen braking.
Another useful feature, particularly when navigating tight spaces, is a 3D-Around View Monitor with an 8-point perspective, which includes Invisible Hood View and Front Wide View. For a South African sitting on the wrong side of the car, on the wrong side of the road, these features took a lot of the stress away.
And that’s really the 2026 Nissan Leaf driving experience in a nutshell – stress-free. Serene, comfortable, packed with intuitive tech that actually works and with great real-world range, it speaks volumes about Nissan’s learnings and experience in this segment.
Summary
At the time of its launch, Nissan had not yet announced any pricing details. Production and pre-orders of the newcomer (in Sunderland, UK) start before the end of this year, but deliveries are only slated to commence in Spring (Europe) 2026.
As I mentioned earlier in this review, I doubt South Africans will see the 2026 Nissan Leaf on local soil any time soon. The local EV market remains very small, is particularly price sensitive, and Nissan South Africa needs to find some volume and production sustainability first. But who knows… The new, 3rd-gen Nissan Leaf is certainly one of the more practical and pleasant EVs out there.
Q: What are the available battery options and their corresponding maximum ranges for the 2026 Nissan Leaf?
A: The 2026 Nissan Leaf is offered with two battery options: a 52 kWh battery (with a range above 440 km WLTP) and a higher-capacity 75 kWh battery (with a maximum range of 622 km WLTP).
Q: How has the design of the 3rd-generation Nissan Leaf changed?
A: The 3rd-generation model is a radical departure from its predecessors. It moves away from the C-segment hatchback shape to a more crossover-like aesthetic, reflecting market preference for “coupe” high-riders.
Q: What is the maximum DC fast charging speed and charge time for the 75 kWh model?
A: The 75 kWh Leaf supports 150 kW DC fast charging, which allows it to recover up to 420 km in range in just 30 minutes of charging.
Q: When are deliveries slated to commence for the 2026 Nissan Leaf in Europe?
A: While production and pre-orders start before the end of this year (2025), deliveries are only slated to commence in Spring (Europe) 2026.
Fuel efficient driving tips that will save you money
Nothing ruins your lifestyle budget like surging fuel prices, and because it’s an unavoidable expense, you just have to deal. However, you can adjust your driving behaviour to be more fuel efficient and so get more range from every litre of fuel.
Before you trade in your car for a scooter, we have put together some practical, sanity-saving fuel efficient driving tips that will leave you with a little extra in your wallet for the next braai.
Drive smoothly & avoid rapid acceleration
Rapid acceleration and harsh braking waste fuel by making your engine work harder than it needs to. Smooth, gradual acceleration and deceleration enable your car to operate at maximum efficiency, reducing strain and improving fuel economy. Try to anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed to minimise sudden changes. Remember high school physics? Conservation of momentum is your fuel economy friend.
Maintain optimal tyre pressure
Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, increasing mechanical drag, which makes your engine needlessly work harder and use more fuel. Check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before you embark on a long journey.
Also, stick to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Proper inflation can improve fuel efficiency by 5%. Beyond the fuel savings, properly inflated tyres enhance your car’s steering, braking and overall driving performance. It’s a good habit to keep.
Reduce speed
Driving slower and maintaining a steady speed not only prevents a speeding ticket but also significantly reduces fuel consumption. Depending on the model, vehicles are usually most fuel efficient in the 80-100 kph range.
Avoid excessive idling
It’s obvious that an engine that’s idling is wasting fuel. If you stop for more than a minute, consider switching off your engine.
Use air-conditioning sparingly
Air-conditioning sources its power from the engine and can increase fuel usage by as much as 10% when used at its maximum setting, in a car with a small-capacity engine. Use the A/C setting sparingly, but be aware that open windows can cause drag at higher speeds.
Plan efficient routes
Be savvy by combining multiple errands into one trip rather than taking multiple short trips. Cold engines are less efficient, so minimising the times your car needs to warm up makes sense. Also employ your GPS’ shortest route suggestions to avoid congestion and reduce time spent idling in traffic.
Remove unnecessary weight
Extra weight adds to your engine’s workload. All items that are not needed for any given trip, like sports gear or heavy cargo boxes, should be removed from the vehicle.
Use cruise control where applicable
Another excellent fuel-efficiency driving tip is to use your cruise control, if your vehicle has this feature. Cruise control helps avoid the surges in fuel consumption that come with frequent speed changes.
Regular vehicle maintenance
A well-maintained vehicle operates more efficiently. Dirty air filters, worn spark plugs, low engine oil, and old fuel injectors can all decrease your fuel economy. Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual and get your vehicle serviced regularly to ensure everything is running optimally.
Utilise Eco mode
Many modern vehicles include an Eco mode setting, which adjusts throttle response, transmission shifts, and even climate control to favour fuel savings. Activating Eco mode during city driving or moderate-speed cruising can lead to measurable improvements in fuel efficiency with minimal compromise to performance.
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ tech & engine deep dive
The ‘Toyota FJ Cruiser revival’ has many people wondering about the newcomer’s lack of a turbodiesel engine… and whether the Land Cruiser FJ is a bigger Jimny 5-door or a true mini-Fortuner. We unpack the tech spec for you.
Nobody understands trends and simplicity better than Toyota. Already dominant in the SUV and all-terrain vehicle market, Toyota‘s latest product reveal – the Land Cruiser FJ – is guaranteed to become a massive hit in South Africa.
Unquestionably, the star car of the 2025 Tokyo Show – the “new” FJ – is a brilliant example of Toyota‘s product planning vision and execution. Globally, the demand for rugged all-terrain vehicles remains very strong. But as urban road infrastructure strains under increased vehicle numbers, the size requirements for rugged all-terrain vehicles have diminished.
David Taylor previews SA-bound cars at the Japan Mobility Show 2025:
It’s why Suzuki’s Jimny is so successful. It combines a purposeful design with real all-terrain ability, mechanical simplicity, and dimensions that make it effortless to drive around the Cape Town City Bowl or through the traffic on Grayston Drive in Sandton.
As it always does, Toyota has been observing the market, evaluating its in-house components and engineering, and has created a very clever solution in the new Land Cruiser FJ.
It’s not a crossover. It’s not a vanilla SUV. It’s a proper miniaturised Fortuner, built on a shortened IVM ladder-frame platform – the same used by the Hilux. Most of the core engineering technology is aged, but that doesn’t matter, because the design is charming and Toyota’s all-terrain reputation is unrivalled.
RAV4 sizing, with Fortuner ruggedness. Similar in concept to the 5-door Jimny, but with more power – it’s likely to be more expensive too.
Shaped for easy urban driving
One of the reasons why Jimny is so cherished is its tiny size. A Jimny is great in traffic and for urban commutes because it’s so easy to place on the road and park. Fortuners aren’t. RAV4s are somewhere in the middle, but they don’t have the rugged steel ladder-frame chassis and off-road ability that potential FJ buyers want. And no, it’s not a replacement for the previous Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Toyota’s new all-terrain SUV isn’t big. It’s about RAV4-sized. And crucially, it has that body-on-frame chassis, with a steel ladder frame. That means that thousands of kilometres of the roughest corrugated dirt roads won’t trouble it. At all.
The FJ is manoeuvrable, too. Its turning circle is only 11m, which is better than a Jimny 5-door’s 11.4m. You get a vehicle that has nearly twice the power of a Jimny, for much better cruising and overtaking performance. But that is also better at nosing into those tight underground garage parking bays.
Solid rear axle, a ‘locker, low range and 18-inch all-terrain tyres. What more do you want?
All the ruggedness you need
But what about the off-road ability? There’s everything you could wish for in a compact 5-door SUV. A low-range transfer case, solid rear axle and lockable rear differential. Ground clearance? Toyota’s not sharing a number yet, but with the standard wheels and tyres, on the IVM platform, expect a number not dissimilar to Jimny’s 210 mm.
Interestingly, Toyota has said that the new Land Cruiser FJ has similar wheel articulation to the Land Cruiser 70. These are legendary vehicles, known for their toughness. But with leaf-sprung suspension, wheel articulation has never been a particular strength of the Land Cruiser 70, unlike a coil-sprung Jeep Wrangler, which has exceptional wheel articulation.
With low-range gearing, a lockable rear axle, proven steel ladder frame chassis and compact dimensions, the new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will be more capable at true overlanding than most owners will ever need it to be. And crucially, it can carry a lot more, and cover highway mileage with greater confidence and comfort, than a Jimny 5-door.
Cabin is a winner. Lots of physical controls, and a sensibly sized footrest.
That 2.7-litre engine: right or wrong?
Toyota likes reusing proven engines rather than engineering new ones. Case in point is the current Prado. In South Africa, it only has one engine option: Toyota’s 2.8-litre 4-cylinder GD-6 turbodiesel engine, which has been around since the late 2000s.
Engine options, or the lack of them, are points of debate with the new Land Cruiser FJ. It’s only going to be available with the 2.7-litre naturally-aspirated4-cylinder petrol engine. Yes, it is related to the same engine that debuted in South Africa twenty years ago, in the 7th-gen Hilux.
But the 2.7-litre petrol is a proven engine for local conditions, powering an enormous amount of minibus taxis, although it’s heavy on fuel. Being naturally aspirated, it’s going to lose a lot of power at altitude. Heavy fuel consumption and altitude-induced power loss are 2 notable downsides for any all-terrain touring vehicle in South Africa, which is why most Toyota SUVs are turbodiesel.
The previous FJ was no turbodiesel hero either. And only had the thirsty V6 petrol engine option.
Toyota Land Cruiser FJ 2.7 and altitude
Most of South Africa’s SUVs and 4×4 run inland, at high altitudes, which means that naturally aspirated engines suffer a lot of power loss. And the new Land Cruiser FJ‘s 2.7 doesn’t deliver great outputs to start with. Peak power is 120 kW, and torque only 243 Nm.
Effectively, it’s going to be a similar scenario to what 5-door Jimny owners experience: all the power you need in low-range, when navigating challenging off-road trails. But just never enough power for confident highway cruising, fully laden, at Gauteng altitudes. And with the penalty of limited range due to much higher fuel consumption than a comparable turbodiesel engine.
But unlike the range issue affecting the Jimny, because its fuel tank size is ultimately limited by the Suzuki’s tiny dimensions and packaging constraints, the FJ should be better. Yes, it will be very heavy on fuel, but because it’s a slightly bigger vehicle, it will have a comparatively larger fuel tank to aid range.
There’s no question the 2.7-litre petrol engine will be heavy on fuel. But South African buyers have embraced 1.5-litre turbopetrol Chinese crossovers and SUVs, which are notoriously heavy on fuel – is that a real-world issue for everyone? Evidently not.
Is Toyota denying fans what they need, or does the 2.7 petrol engine make sense?
Why no Land Cruiser FJ diesel?
On paper, the Land Cruiser FJ has a very average engine. And everyone wants it to be equipped with a turbodiesel, offering much better overtaking acceleration and the ability to “flatten” those long highway gradients.
There’s also the range and fuel budget benefits of a turbodiesel, which are fundamental considerations when journeying into Namibia, Botswana or Mozambique. But does Toyota understand something that many people dismissing the new FJ’s petrol-only engine configuration don’t?
Turbodiesel engines balance performance and economy, but they have become increasingly vulnerable to fuel issues. And South Africa has some of the world’s most variable diesel fuel quality. With more stringent aftertreatment systems to achieve emissions compliance, long-term turbodiesel engine maintenance, including DPF filters and the like, can become a cost issue. And those are issues that don’t influence a naturally aspirated engine like that of the Land Cruiser FJ.
It’s also part of Toyota‘s product hierarchy and powertrain strategy to avoid any cannibalisation from smaller to larger vehicles. That’s why you can’t have a slightly detuned version of the awesome 3.3-litre V6 turbodiesel in the Prado. Because of the risk to Land Cruiser 300 sales. And that logic applies to new Land Cruiser FJ, and why it doesn’t feature a 2.4- or 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine.
No diesel engine. Not going to be cheap. But you know Toyota is going to sell more than they can make.
RAV4 proves there’s non-diesel demand
The 2.7 VVT-i has been proven by hundreds of millions of kilometres driven by minibus taxis and legacy petrol-powered Hilux bakkies, fuelled across South Africa.
That means it is validated and proven for local use and fuel. Globally, the 2.7 TR-FE engine also powered Toyota’s most important bakkie, in the world’s most demanding bakkie market. Tacoma used versions of the 2.7 in America from 1995 to 2023, including the latest TR-FE version.
Toyota realises that trends are changing amongst its smaller SUV buyers. There was a time when the idea of a RAV4 model range without a diesel engine would have been inconceivable. RAV4 remains the benchmark vehicle in its class for sales, despite the current range not offering a diesel.
Customers might overwhelmingly buy diesel Fortuners, but the current RAV4, without a single diesel engine option, proves to Toyota that customers in the SUV and crossover market aren’t indifferent to petrol engines.
The new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ is effectively a short-wheelbase Fortuner with petrol power. And like the Fortuner when it launched in South Africa in 2006, it’s going to be wildly popular.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Land Cruiser FJ
Q: How is the new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ positioned in the market and what platform is it built on?
A: It is positioned as a “miniaturized Fortuner,” built on a shortened version of the robust IMV ladder-frame platform, which is shared with the Hilux. This gives it ruggedness in a compact, RAV4-sized package.
Q: What engine is available in the Land Cruiser FJ, and what are its performance figures?
A: The Land Cruiser FJ is launched with a single engine option: the 2.7-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine (2TR-FE), which produces 120 kW of power and 243 Nm of torque.
Q: Why did Toyota decide not to offer a turbodiesel engine option for the FJ?
A: Reasons include avoiding cannibalization of larger Land Cruiser/Prado sales, addressing concerns over the long-term maintenance costs of modern turbodiesels (like DPF filters), and dealing with variable diesel fuel quality in certain markets like South Africa.
Q: What core off-road equipment is included in the Land Cruiser FJ?
A: The FJ comes equipped with serious off-road gear, including a low-range transfer case, a solid rear axle, a lockable rear differential, and a steel ladder-frame chassis.
The problem with living debt-free
Most South Africans are over-indebted, so living without debt may sound idyllic. However, it can cause problems when you apply for vehicle finance. We help you understand when this scenario may apply to you and how you could fix the problem.
You might live debt-free because you chose this lifestyle or, possibly, you are one of those people (like students or graduates, who are just starting out their careers) who are living without debt because they’re so young they haven’t begun to buy big-ticket items like houses and cars.
For whatever reason you’re living virtually debt-free, if you plan on buying a house or a car in the near future and can’t afford to buy them with funds you already have, you’re going to need a good credit score if you hope to secure finance to reach those goals. It’s important for a car finance provider to see a history of how you have successfully managed debt.
Your credit score is calculated based on your credit history. If you have never borrowed, which is especially true of younger people, then you will not have much credit history – or a “thin file”, which means your score will be lower. It may even be that the credit bureau can’t generate a score for you at all in this case.
There are companies that will show you your credit profile for free and provide some useful information about what that score will mean when you apply for different types of credit.
If your score is less than 500 and you know that you have little or no credit then this is the first sign of a problem.
A “thin file” can be very frustrating because you might feel that you’re put at a disadvantage even though you clearly can afford the vehicle that you want to buy … and have not done anything wrong. There is no point complaining about the stupidity of the system, nobody will listen! You are actually a dream customer, but you need to build your credit score.
So how do you start building your credit rating from the ground up?
You need to build a credit history, which means you have to take out some “credit” and then pay it off. This demonstrates to the vehicle finance provider that you can service debt in a responsible manner. This does not mean taking on a lot of debt (we list a few ideas below). If you do one or more of these, it is likely that, in 3 to 6 months’ time, you will have built a score that will provide access to car finance.
Tips to build a credit score:
Open a bank account and ask for an overdraft facility. Don’t use more than 25% of the available overdraft limit and pay what you owe quickly.
Get a credit card or even a retail store card. Use this card or account to make small purchases and repay the money at the end of the month. Remember to pay it back in a timely manner and keep your credit balance below 35% of your credit limit.
Go slow with credit applications – while you need credit to build credit, it’s important to take it slow at first. Having too many credit applications in a short period of time might do more harm than good for your credit-building efforts. This shows lenders that you’re desperate and could be susceptible to getting in way over your head with debt.
Monitor your credit report so you can keep track of progress.
Need a quick solution?
If you can’t secure a finance agreement because you have no credit rating, consider car subscription services such as Flexclub, which are much more likely to help you acquire your new wheels.
The head of GWM South Africa says the local sales success of the H6 GT PHEV will likely see more plug-in hybrids from the Haval sub-brand introduced in early 2026…
Local GWM boss suggests more Haval PHEVs are coming soon
“Phenomenal” sales traction for 321 kW H6 GT PHEV in SA
New H6 PHEV seems most likely candidate for introduction
In June 2025, GWM South Africa introduced its very first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the Haval H6 GT PHEV. And the head of the Chinese brand’s local division has suggested its early sales success will see more plug-in Haval models launched in early 2026.
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 H6 GT PHEV launched locally in mid-2025 as GWM SA’s first plug-in hybrid.
“If you look at the total volume sales in South Africa, new-energy vehicles make up 3.0%. So, the take-up is very slow,” Groenewald admitted, making reference to local NEV sales in 2024 (that is, fully electric vehicles, traditional hybrids and plug-in hybrids).
“The [Haval H6] GT PHEV we [recently] launched – phenomenal traction on that vehicle. So, we have almost a one-to-one sale of the PHEV GT versus the ICE [internal combustion engine] version of the GT. For R800 000, it’s well priced and it’s got a value proposition the market is buying into.”
When the facelifted H6 portfolio hit the market towards the middle of 2025, the range included the new H6 GT 1.5T PHEV 4WD Ultra Luxury (which, at R799 900, commands a R133 950 premium over the purely petrol-powered H6 GT 2.0GDIT 4WD Super Luxury). Peak system outputs are as lofty as 321 kW and 762 Nm, translating to a 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 4.9 seconds.
“We do find that the market is moving away from self-charging hybrids to plug-in hybrids faster than we expected. So, we have accelerated our opportunity to bring more plug-in hybrids vehicles into South Africa. Hopefully by early next year [2026] we’ll start seeing more plug-in hybrid vehicles coming from Haval,” Groenewald added, without going into further detail.
A PHEV version of the standard-body H6 could come to SA in 2026.
So, what could these new PHEV models be? Well, we’d speculate the most likely candidate is the H6 PHEV that is already on sale in fellow right-hand-drive market, Australia. While the standard-body H6 range in SA currently tops out with a pair of traditional (so-called “self-charging”) hybrid derivatives, the line-up Down Under additionally features PHEV variants.
In that market, the H6 PHEV is available in both front- and all-wheel drive, with the latter wearing the Hi4 (that’s “Hybrid Intelligent 4WD”) badge. The 2WD plug-in hybrid offers 240 kW and 540 Nm, while the dual-motor 4WD version boasts 268 kW and 760 Nm (with each using a 19.09 kWh battery pack). The claimed combined range – for Australia, anyway – is well over 1 000 km in both cases.
The P500 PHEV is seemingly off the menu for SA (for now, at least).
What else could be on the cards? Well, while the Chinese brand’s South African division made mention of the P500 PHEV at its local dealer awards event back in February 2025, it’s our understanding that this plug-in bakkie derivative is off the table – for now, at least.
The Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV, which was introduced in Australia as recently as the start of October 2025, is another potential option for GWM SA, though it’s worth keeping in mind Groenewald made specific reference to Haval PHEVs. As a reminder, just a single Tank 500 derivative – a traditional hybrid – is currently available in Mzansi, priced from R1 228 950.
Were GWM’s local arm to introduce the Tank 500 PHEV, it would surely launch as the brand’s most expensive model yet. For the record, the version offered Down Under features a 37.1 kWh battery pack and dual electric motors (in addition to its turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine), resulting in maximum outputs of 300 kW and 750 Nm.
In China, meanwhile, the Haval Big Dog (a model we know in South Africa as the H7) is also available with a PHEV powertrain, as is the Haval Raptor and the Haval Xiaolong Max. It’s not yet clear whether these models are planned for sale outside of China.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why is GWM South Africa planning to introduce more plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)?
A: GWM South Africa says it is accelerating the introduction of more PHEVs due to the “phenomenal” sales traction of the recently launched Haval H6 GT PHEV. The head of GWM South Africa noted the vehicle has an almost one-to-one sales ratio compared to its purely petrol-powered version, indicating the market is buying into its value proposition and moving toward plug-in hybrids faster than anticipated.
Q: When can consumers expect to see more Haval plug-in hybrid models arrive in South Africa?
A: GWM South Africa says it hopes to start introducing more plug-in hybrid vehicles from Haval by early 2026.
Q: What is the most likely new Haval PHEV model to be introduced in South Africa?
A: The most likely candidate is the plug-in hybrid version of the standard-body Haval H6, which is already on sale in the right-hand-drive market of Australia. This model features both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive (Hi4) variants in the Australian market.
The fully electric Deepal S07 slots in at the top of Changan’s freshly introduced range in South Africa. Here’s what this battery-powered crossover costs…
Deepal S07 kicks off at just under R1-million
Rear-mounted electric motor makes 160 kW
Single-charge WLTP range listed as 500 km
Chinese brand Changan Automobiles has officially hit the market in South Africa, offering the Alsvin budget sedan, the CS75 Pro crossover, the Hunter bakkie and the fully electric Deepal S07 at launch. So, what does its battery-powered crossover cost?
Well, the rear-wheel-drive Deepal S07 has what the Changan brand – which is distributed locally by Saudi Arabian company Jameel Motors – describes as an “introductory” price of R995 900.
Measuring 4 750 mm from front to back, the 5-seater Deepal S07 has a wheelbase of 2 900 mm and a listed ground clearance of 165 mm. The boot can handle a claimed 445 litres, while a front compartment offers an additional 125 litres of luggage space.
The single rear-mounted electric motor delivers peak outputs of 160 kW and 320 Nm, which translates to a 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 7.9 seconds. Courtesy of an 80 kWh battery pack, Changan claims a single-charge WLTP range of 500 km.
Standard features for the S07 include 20-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable front seats (trimmed in microfibre leather upholstery), a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a 14-speaker sound system, a 360-degree camera system, wireless smartphone charging, a sunroof and an electrically operated tailgate.
Listed safety kit includes 6 airbags, electronic stability control, hill-hold control, hill-descent control, tyre-pressure monitoring, parking sensors (fore and aft), adaptive cruise control, an augmented reality head-up display (there is no traditional instrument cluster) and a raft of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) functions.
What does the Changan Deepal S07 cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Changan Deepal S07
R995 900
The price above includes a 5-year/150 000 km warranty, an 8-year/150 000 km battery warranty and a 5-year/90 000 km maintenance plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the introductory price of the fully electric Changan Deepal S07 in South Africa?
A: The introductory price of this rear-wheel-drive model in South Africa is R995 900.
Q: What are the main performance and range specifications of the Deepal S07?
A: The single rear-mounted electric motor delivers 160 kW and 320 Nm, allowing for a 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 7.9 seconds. The 80 kWh battery pack provides a claimed single-charge WLTP range of 500 km.
Q: What are the key dimensions and luggage capacity of the Deepal S07?
A: The 5-seater model measures 4 750 mm in length and has a wheelbase of 2 900 mm, with 165 mm of ground clearance. The boot has a capacity of 445 litres, complemented by a 125-litre front compartment.
