Ford’s smash-hit new Ranger finally brought the Blue Oval #CarsAwards glory when it emerged victorious in the hotly contested Leisure Double Cab Bakkie category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa.
In this immensely popular and fiercely contested vehicle category, the search is on for the ultimate all-rounder. From luxurious touring vehicle, to hardcore off-roader, capable carry-all, family do-all and lifestyle activity machine, the 2024 Best Leisure Double Cab Bakkie cannot be too utilitarian and/or rough around the edges (as its predecessors have tended to be) – it should be a highly sophisticated offering.
The Leisure Double Cab Bakkie category
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price above R800 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). The vehicle must be a double-cab (four-door) pick-up/bakkie with four-wheel-drive, an automatic transmission and a minimum ground clearance of at least 200 mm.
Pillars of success for this category include performance, space & practicality, in-car entertainment, comfort, all-surface ability and safety. Towing ability is also tested.
2024 Best Leisure Double Cab Bakkie: CarsAwards WINNER
Ford Ranger 3.0 V6 EcoBoost Raptor 4WD
If you’re looking for the most performance-oriented double-cab bakkie in the new-vehicle market, then look no further than the Ford Ranger Raptor. With a bespoke off-road racing suspension, muscular looks and a howling twin-turbo petrol V6, the 2nd-gen Ranger Raptor makes an unequivocal statement. Inside, the Raptor boasts comprehensive safety tech and connectivity, and an appropriately themed cabin.
If you want the most luxurious locally-assembled double-cab bakkie – one that is as accomplished at transporting your family in comfort as conquering an off-road trail, the new Ford Ranger Wildtrak ticks all the boxes. Not only does it look the part and wear a desirable badge, it also sports an extensive features list. A brand-new 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 gives it impressive performance and towing capability too.
The 2nd-generation Volkswagen Amarok is also built right here in South Africa, alongside the Ranger in Ford’s Silverton plant. While it does share quite a few mechanical and trim components with its American cousin, the Amarok has a distinct identity and initial sales figures for the model look promising. It features the Ford-sourced 3.0 V6 TDI, giving it commendable performance, both in terms of driving and towing.
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
BMW’s iX1 was crowned as South Africa’s Best Electric Vehicle when it took the trophy in this new category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are considered as future mobility solutions in an evolving motoring landscape. While they are expensive in our market, due to high material costs and additional taxes levied by the Government, demand for these types of vehicles is increasing gradually. Plus, as brands increase the number of EVs in their line-ups, consumers have an ever-growing number of models to choose from.
What do we look for in an electric vehicle?
The 2024 Best Electric Vehicle must represent the best value EVs in this rarefied segment, with enough range to confidently complete the average daily commute, while providing a blend of modern design, interior practicality, adequate performance and up-to-date tech and connectivity features.
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price below R1 300 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). Eligible vehicles must be all-electric (which is to say battery-electric vehicles) and offer a minimum range of 300 km when fully charged. This category excludes hybrids and plug-in EVs.
Pillars of success for this category include power and range, luxury and technology, value for money, design and quality appeal.
2024 Best Electric Vehicle: CarsAwards Winner
BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport
Like most legacy premium brands, BMW offers a blend of internal-combustion engine-based models, which are adapted to utilise all-electric drivetrains, and all-electric cars built on dedicated EV platforms.
The Munich-based brand has family-friendly SUVs and performance sedans in its electric vehicle line-up, but the iX1 appears to be the “Goldilocks model” for an all-electric raised-body city slicker. It’s competitively priced, boasts impressive levels of tech and its range is adequate for the daily commute. BMW SA has an extensive dealership footprint as well as a reputation for strong after-sales support.
Chinese brand Ora (which, like Haval, is a sub-brand of Great Wall Motor) offers one of SA’s most affordable electric cars with its cute-looking 300 (which is named the Cat in other markets). Photos don’t do it justice – it’s actually a larger vehicle than it looks, and can easily accommodate four adults.
The claimed range and performance figures are good, plus the standard specification and build quality are impressive for a vehicle at this price point. Who said electric cars all have to cost over R1 million?
Volvo is forging ahead with its electric-car strategy (it plans to offer only EVs by 2030) and its line-up of battery-electric compact SUVs – including the C40- and XC40 Recharge derivatives are very impressive.
With the Twin Motor setup, the XC40 Recharge is one of the quickest offerings in Volvo’s line-up and its claimed range (500 km) is admirable, considering its punchy performance. Inside, you get that typically classy cabin that looks and feels premium, and let’s not forget Volvo’s stellar safety credentials either.
Find out which cars were winners in the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title).
Finding a hardcore performance car priced under R1 million is increasingly tough, but these three CarsAwards finalists certainly get the blood pumping. In the end, it was Toyota’s GR Yaris that took the chequered flag in the Performance Car category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa.
While owning supercars and other “exotics” is bound to remain a pipedream for most car buyers, there are new cars that are priced under the R1-million mark that offer near-supercar thrills and performance.
The Performance Car category
In this category, we are not only looking for sizzling performance but also driver engagement, whether driven on the track or on the road. This category is guided by eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for the 2024 Best Performance Car title include a list price below R1 000 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). As in previous #CarsAwards programmes, we institute a price cap to ensure the category doesn’t become dominated by extravagant and unattainable exotics.
Pillars of success for this category include drivetrain engagement, handling, sensory appeal and standard features.
2024 Best Performance Car: CarsAwards WINNER
Toyota GR Yaris Rally
The GR Yaris is the result of Toyota’s Gazoo Racing arm developing a car for motorsport homologation and, if you were to enter a racing series, you wouldn’t have to do much to convert this mighty mite into a championship-winning race car. All the elements are there: a revvy turbocharged 3-pot motor, all-wheel drive and a sweet-shifting 6-speed manual ‘box. If ever a car epitomises this category, it is this one.
The Honda Civic Type R is a revered hot hatch. Every iteration of the Type R has delivered driving thrills and performance in abundance, and this new-gen model is no different. It may lack the outrageous styling of the predecessor, but it makes up for it with an even more focused driving experience.
The Japanese hatchback’s grip levels are staggering; its 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol develops a stonking 235 kW/420 Nm and the sheer level of driver engagement it offers serves as a reminder that rip-snorting front-wheel-drive hot hatches such as these won’t be around for all that much longer.
Toyota’s GR division took its learnings from the world rally championship-inspired GR Yaris, applied them to the Corolla and turned up the wick. The 1.6-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol motor now delivers 221 kW and 370 Nm, combined with all-wheel-drive grip that feels out of this world. With a notable feel-good factor and head-turning looks, there’s nothing quite like the GR Corolla.
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
The Premium SUV segment features some of the most sophisticated and luxurious cars in the new vehicle market. This category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards has been dominated by German luxury brands, but in the 2023/24 #CarsAwards, it had a surprise winner… The all-electric BMW iX defeated its traditional ICE rivals!
Premium SUVs may primarily appeal for irrational and emotional reasons such as design and status, but at their core, they are some of the most sophisticated and capable vehicles on the market. Apart from sheer desirability, the 2024 Best Premium SUV must be spacious, have a high-tech all-wheel drivetrain, a powerful engine and a luxuriously trimmed cabin (let alone with a prestigious badge on the grille).
The Best Premium SUV category
This category is guided by eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors include a list price between R1 300 000 and R1 800 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). It must be a large SUV of the BMW X5/Mercedes GLE category (coupe-inspired variants are also considered). It goes without saying that all-wheel-drive capability is a must.
Pillars of success for this category include powertrain technology, luxury, brand strength, design and quality appeal, driving dynamics, as well as space and practicality.
2024 Best Premium SUV: CarsAwards WINNER
BMW iX xDrive40
For the first time, an all-electric model was selected as a finalist in a category that’s not focused on EVs, and it won! The new BMW iX has been quite the revelation, with its polarising design, impressive levels of tech and superb build quality. Because the iX is based on a dedicated electric-vehicle platform – not that of a conventionally engined model – it’s very spacious, too!
The recently revised BMW X5 makes yet another appearance in one of the most established categories of the CarsAwards, but it’s easy to understand why this vehicle is an almost permanent fixture… With a potent 3.0-litre inline-6 turbodiesel powerplant that balances impressive on-road performance with good fuel economy, the xDrive30d M Sport also offers generous passenger room and cargo-carrying capacity.
Although it’s a far cry from its utilitarian progenitor, the new Defender is a kingpin in Jaguar Land Rover’s stable. In terms of sheer versatility, it blows the opposition away – that’s why there’s a waiting list for the Landy. The Defender 110 blends luxury, practicality and off-road ability in an eye-catching package and the D250 SE County derivative is powered by a 3.0-litre inline-6 turbodiesel that makes 183 kW/570 Nm.
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
Mercedes-Benz’s popular GLC scooped the Executive SUV trophy in the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa, by the smallest of margins. But a win is a win. This is an excellent all-round luxury SUV with a smooth diesel engine.
Most premium brands now offer road-biased SUVs that combine prestige and practicality in packages that are renowned for superior refinement. The 2024 Best Executive SUV needs to have refined drivetrain performance and -road manners, while its cabin must be comfortable, trimmed in upmarket materials and feature the most up-to-date technology.
The Executive SUV category
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price between R1 000 000 and R1 300 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023) to ensure both exclusivity and status. Eligible vehicles in this category must be medium-sized (Audi Q5/Mercedes-Benz GLC size), including their “coupe” variants.
Pillars of success for this category include powertrain technology, luxury, brand strength, design and quality appeal, driving dynamics, as well as space and practicality.
2024 Best Executive SUV: CarsAwards WINNER
Mercedes-Benz GLC220d 4Matic Avantgarde
Mercedes-Benz went to great lengths to ensure that the 2nd-gen GLC would regain its place at the top of the Executive SUV segment. Fresh looks give it standout kerb appeal, while its interior looks futuristic. There’s a great turbodiesel engine under the bonnet, giving the Benz ample performance that doesn’t come at the expense of fuel consumption. Overall, the GLC is a solid offering that deserves high praise.
With the current (recently facelifted) X3, it appears BMW can’t put a “wheel” wrong: it has well-resolved underpinnings, an acclaimed powertrain and a luxurious cabin laced with comfort features and tech. The turbodiesel engine offers a great blend of performance and economy, so it won’t surprise many to learn that the X3 is BMW SA’s best-selling model. It narrowly lost out to the Mercedes-Benz GLC this time round, however.
The new-gen Lexus NX represents a leap forward from its quirky predecessor. Sharp looks, impeccable build quality and a comprehensive list of standard features make the new NX a compelling prospect. The NX 350h F Sport’s hybrid powertrain is paired with a relaxed ride and drive, and its claimed fuel economy figure is one of the lowest in the segment. Backed by legendary reliability, this Lexus has a lot going for it.
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
At a time when household budgets are stretched tighter than ever before, the “affordable” end of the market is where you will find some of the most popular cars in South Africa. Suzuki has dominated the Entry-Level Hatch category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards for many years, and continues to do so with the Swift 1.2 GLX.
The entry-level hatch segment is highly competitive and, even though budgets are tight and fuel prices keep rising, buying an affordable car doesn’t have to mean that you should compromise on safety, tech and quality. The 2024 Best Entry-Level Hatch represents “as much good car as possible for the money”.
The Entry-Level Hatch category
Value is very important, as are running costs and all other pertinent “common sense” considerations. The price cap for this category is set at R250 000.
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors include a list price not exceeding R250 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023), an anti-lock braking system (ABS), dual front airbags and a service plan.
Pillars of success for this category include fuel economy, value for money (the standard features the better), practicality and brand strength.
2024 Best Entry-Level Hatch: CarsAwards WINNER
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX
The Suzuki Swift is the Japanese firm’s most popular model in the new-vehicle market and the brand has notably won the Budget Car category of the #CarsAwards 5 times (4 times with a Swift derivative). Plus, in the 2021/21 programme, the Swift 1.2 GL was named the winner of the Entry-Level Car category.
The Swift is technically a B-segment hatchback (which makes it a more substantial car than most entry-level offerings) and in 1.2 GLX guise, the Swift offers a good spread of standard features while delivering a pleasing driving experience, nippy performance and miserly fuel consumption. The Swift represents excellent value; its 2-year service plan is a plus, but the 5-year/200 000 km warranty is the clincher.
Renault SA has shifted its product focus to crossovers, which has seen the Indian-made Kiger achieve remarkable sales success in the new-vehicle market. The keenly-priced Kiger offers attractive crossover-inspired looks, combined with a modern cabin and a healthy dose of practicality. The 1.0 Zen derivative is powered by a 1.0-litre petrol engine that delivers a good balance of performance and economy.
Budget-car specialist Suzuki has 2 finalists in this category, the first of which is the Celerio. It ticks the boxes for a value-for-money model with surprising cabin spaciousness, a relatively long spec list and a fuel-efficient petrol engine. However, could it be positioned too close to its Swift sibling? The Celerio is backed by 2-time #CarsAwards Brand of the Year winner Suzuki SA’s excellent after-sales support.
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
Winners: 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa
Cars.co.za is proud to announce the 13 category winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa, as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title. See the complete list of trophy winners below.
Entry-level Hatch
Winner: Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX
Runners up: Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GL, Renault Kiger 1.0 Zen
Budget Hatch
Winner: Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX
Runners up: Toyota Starlet 1.5 XR, Renault Clio 1.0 Turbo Zen
Compact Hatch
Winner: Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI 85kW R-Line
Runners up: Honda Fit 1.5 Elegance, Opel Corsa 1.2T Elegance
Entry-level Crossover
Winner: Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GLX
Runners up: Haval Jolion 1.5T Premium Auto, Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5 Elite Auto
Compact Family Car
Winner: Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XR
Runners up: Haval Jolion S Super Luxury, Renault Duster 1.5dCi Intens
Family Car
Winner: Kia Sportage 1.6CRDi EX
Runners up: Haval H6 1.5T HEV Ultra Luxury, Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max 2.0TGDi 390 Executive
Premium Crossover
Winner: BMW X1 sDrive18d M Sport
Runners up: Volvo XC40 B4 Ultimate Dark, Audi Q3 Sportback 40TFSI quattro S Line
Executive SUV
Winner: Mercedes-Benz GLC220d 4Matic Avantgarde
Runners up: BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport, Lexus NX 350h F Sport
Premium SUV
Winner: BMW iX xDrive40
Runners up: BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport, Land Rover Defender 110 D250 SE County
Runners up: Volvo XC40 Twin Motor Ultimate, GWM Ora 03 Super Lux
Brand of the Year
Winner: Toyota/Lexus
Runners up: Suzuki, BMW/Mini
Suzuki Auto SA collected 3 trophies at the 2023/24 #CarsAwards gala; their total haul of category wins is 10.
Highlights of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards programme
BMW and Suzuki took the most category wins (3 apiece) in the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa. BMW has the 2nd most category wins in #CarsAwards history (12), followed by Toyota (11) and Suzuki (10), but Volkswagen (20) comfortably leads the category trophies tally.
Nothing could stop the Ford Ranger Raptor from climbing to the top in the Leisure Double Cab category.
By winning the Adventure SUV and Leisure Double Cab categories, Ford returned to the #CarsAwards winners list for the first time since 2016/17.
While Ford did have a strong chance of clinching the Leisure Double Cab trophy (with 2 out of the 3 category finalists), which it did – with the Ranger 3.0 V6 EcoBoost Raptor 4WD, the Everest 3.0 V6 Wildtrak ended the Toyota Fortuner’s run of 4 consecutive category wins that began in 2017/18.
Ford was thrilled with its pair of category wins in the 2023/24 CarsAwards.
BMW, the first manufacturer to win #CarsAwards trophies with a fully-electric vehicle – with the i3 model in the inaugural 2015/16 programme – duly won the new Electric Vehicle (EV) category in the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa with the iX1 xDrive30 M Sport.
BMW SA bagged a trio of trophies for their 3 category wins in the 2023/24 #CarsAwards programme.
In another notable achievement for BMW, one of the German marque’s EV models defeated a pair of internal combustion engined (ICE) rivals at the very first attempt when the iX xDrive40 took the spoils in the Premium SUV category ahead of its X5 sibling and Land Rover Defender.
Two variants of the BMW X1 (the sDrive18d and all-electric iX1) were victorious in the 2023/24 CarsAwards.
Suzuki won the Budget category for the 5th time out of 7 iterations of the #CarsAwards programme. The Baleno 1.5 GLX avenged its predecessor’s 2020/21 defeat to the Toyota Starlet 1.4 XR, while a Swift derivative (this time, the 1.2 GLX) won the Entry-level Hatch trophy for a second consecutive time. A Swift variant has won a #CarsAwards category 4 times in the history of the #CarsAwards.
Volkswagen won the Compact Hatch category of the #CarsAwards for the 4th consecutive time with a 1.0-litre turbopetrol Polo derivative (the 1.0 TSI 85kW R-Line).
Kia won a #CarsAwards category for the first time courtesy of the Sportage 1.6CRDi EX.
Kia took its first win in the history of the programme courtesy of the Sportage 1.6CRDi EX in the Family Car category. Kia is the first Korean brand to win a #CarsAwards trophy.
The Sportage was also the finalist vehicle with the highest individual score (81.9%). The narrowest margin of victory (0.1%) was in the Premium SUV category and the widest (6.4%) in Entry-Level Hatch. Meanwhile, Executive SUV had the smallest gap between the first and third places (1.2% – the category was fiercely contested) and Entry Level Hatch the biggest (18%).
All 39 finalist vehicles were compared back-to-back at the Gerotek proving grounds in November 2023.
By winning the Brand of the Year consecutively, Toyota now leads the total #CarsAwards Brand of the Year wins tally with 4 trophies, followed by Suzuki (2) and Volkswagen (1).
About the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards
The winners of the 7th iteration of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – newly sponsored by Absa and endorsed by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) – were revealed at a black-tie gala in Sandton City Mall on 29 February 2024. The glamorous event was attended by hundreds of guests, hosted by comedian Nik Rabinowitz and radio personality (and former #CarsAwards guest judge) Khutso Theledi and featured entertainment by the Ndlovu Youth Choir.
The glamorous 2023/24 #CarsAwards gala was hosted at Sandton City Mall Rooftop 8.
The Cars.co.za Consumer Awards (now widely known as the #CarsAwards) was established in 2015 to be South Africa’s definitive automotive awards programme – it plays a pivotal role in the company’s mission to help consumers make the best-informed purchasing decisions.
Cars.co.za Managing Director Amasi Mwela announced the return of the #CarsAwards programme, which was paused in 2021, last year. As before, vehicles would be judged against their peers in distinct categories, of which each had its own requirements. What’s more, 50% of the final scores would be based on brand-specific data incorporating direct feedback from South African car owners.
Cars.co.za managing director Amasi Mwela, who resumed the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards in 2023.
“The #CarsAwards underlines our commitment to helping our users understand the best way to spend their hard-earned Rands when purchasing new vehicles,” says Mwela. “As new-car prices escalate, it emphasises the need to make educated and informed buying decisions.”
The rejuvenated seventh #CarsAwards has turned out to be the most elaborate iteration of the programme. Not only did it attract sponsorship from leading bank Absa (a relationship that will take #CarsAwards into the future) – it attained significant gravitas by being officially endorsed by the Naamsa, which has represented, and advanced the cause of, the local motor industry for approximately 89 years.
The 2023/24 #CarsAwards incorporated public experiences in the forms of the Mall of Africa and Sandton City roadshows.
“The Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa and galvanised by the endorsement from Naamsa, allows Cars.co.za to take a leadership position in our industry,” Mwela adds.
“Partnering with theCars.co.za Consumer Awards strongly resonates with our objective of endorsing innovative initiatives that bridge the gap between consumers, trusted dealers and manufacturers,” says Charl Potgieter, Managing Executive of Absa Vehicle and Asset Finance.
An electric car (the BMW iX) defeated its ICE rivals in the Premium SUV category of the 2023/24 #CarsAwards.
“This highly respected awards programme is not just about celebrating the automotive industry’s finest, it’s about strengthening the dynamic space in which the industry operates,” he adds.
“We continue to work very closely with all our partners to take the South African automotive industry to greater heights,” says Naamsa chief executive officer Mikel Mabasa.
Naama chief executive officer Mikel Mabasa addresses the audience at the 2023/24 #CarsAwards gala.
“Business leaders and organisations involved in the motor industry can play a progressive role in turning the negative sentiment in the automotive market into positivity. (Naamsa believes that) the #CarsAwards represents a number of things that should be going right in the country.
“Naamsa is now associating itself with products, brands and partners that can help to bring this ‘mood’ back up because that’s what South Africa needs. South Africans are exhausted from hearing negativity and I think Cars.co.za can play a very important role in lifting that mood.”
The multi-faceted judging process
The 2023/24 CarsAwards was adjudged by a panel of 20 judges from the motoring media and various fields of expertise.
The Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa utilises a unique scoring system that involves extensive testing by a panel of 20 judges, inputs from vehicle owners (based on their product quality-, reliability- and after-sales experiences of vehicles serviced through franchised outlets and less than four years old), as well as extra data provided by Lightstone Consumer.
Cars.co.za’s extended editorial team chose the 39 finalist vehicles, which included model derivatives from no fewer than 18 brands, out of a list of 65 semi-finalists. To be eligible for the #CarsAwards, vehicles had to be available on the new-vehicle market on 1 September 2023.
#CarsAwards judge Rebaneilwe Semakane.
The combined judging panel (including 14 respected guest judges from various fields of expertise) compiled the finalist vehicles’ scores after they evaluated the cars back-to-back during an intensive two-day test at the Gerotek testing facility on 2 and 3 November 2023.
However, the judges’ scores for the 39 finalists only counted 50% of the final standings, The other 50% was based on rankings that the respective vehicle brands represented by the finalists achieved in the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey.
#CarsAwards judge Bongani from MrHowMuch tests the Volkswagen Amarok at Gerotek.
How the Brand of the Year title was decided
As opposed to the category winners, the recipient of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards Brand of the Year title was determined solely by market data, as well as the findings of the Cars.co.za Ownership Satisfaction Survey (brands’ sales and after-sales service ratings are particularly impactful, as are the percentages of purchase-price value the brands’ finalists retained after three years of ownership).
Toyota South Africa Motors has now won the #CarsAwards Brand of the Year title 4 times!
Although Toyota failed to win a category during the first two iterations of the #CarsAwards, the Prospecton-based manufacturer won the programme’s first Brand of the Year title in 2015/16 and 2018/19. Then, having finished well behind Volkswagen in 2019/20, South Africa’s top-selling new-vehicle brand rallied back to win the Brand of the Year title in 2020/21 and this year – 2023/24. The trophy was presented to Toyota SA Motors by Naamsa Chief Executive Officer Mikel Mabasa.
Toyota and its Lexus premium sub-brand achieved a score of 88.3%, which was a significant 9.2% ahead of the 2016/17 and 2017/18 Brand of the Year winner Suzuki, which finished in second place with 79.1%. BMW and its sister brand Mini finished third with 78.2%.
2023/24 Performace Car category winner Toyota GR Yaris proved its mettle at Gerotek.
“The Brand of the Year trophy is the ultimate accolade in the local automotive industry and represents validation from the people who matter most: car owners,” says Cars.co.za Consumer Experience Manager Hannes Oosthuizen, who has led the #CarsAwards project since 2015.
“By providing consistently superior after-sales support through the most extensive dealer network in the country, Toyota has put South African consumers first and – based on the feedback by thousands of vehicle owners – they evidently appreciate that,” he adds.
The Consumer Awards Roadshow at Sandton City Mall
The 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa incorporates an all-new consumer experience element. Having hosted the inaugural Awards Roadshow at the Mall of Africa late in 2023, where consumers could view and experience all 39 of the finalist vehicles, as well as interact with car salespeople and various #CarsAwards judges, Cars.co.za and Absa will present another, more sophisticated roadshow at Sandton City Mall from 1 to 3 March 2024.
After the #CarsAwards gala, Cars.co.za and Absa will take over the Sandton City Mall for three days. The motoring public will again be welcome to inspect, experience and possibly test drive the 39 finalist vehicles (13 #CarsAwards winners and 26 runners up), engage with Cars.co.za advisers and dealers’ sales representatives, plus stand chances to win cool prizes. However, Absa will also host a lounge and pop-up bank so that buyers can purchase carsat the mall.
#CarsAwards judges MrHowMuch, Muzi Sambo, Rebaneilwe Semakane, Kumbi Mtshakazi, Juliet Maguire, Jacob Moshokoa and Ciro De Siena will be in attendance to interact with the public and, during the roadshow, Absa will award a grand prize of R500 000 to an eligible mall visitor – the winner will be able to spend that sum on buying a new or used car (Ts & Cs apply).
CarsAwards judges Jacob Moshokoa and Juliet McGuire will be at the Consumer Awards Roadshow at Sandton City Mall.
Ciro De Siena will help the winner make their decision and accompany them to one of Cars.co.za’s dealer partners, where they will be able to use the R500 000 to purchase the vehicle of their choice. Thereafter, the lucky winner will drive home in their new purchase!
Toyota’s ever-popular Fortuner finally met its match when the new Ford Everest was announced as the Adventure SUV category winner in the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa.
The 2024 Best Adventure SUV needs to be the ultimate recreational vehicle with which to transport a family and all their holiday and lifestyle gear in comfort to almost any destination, on- and/or off-road. Off-road ability is emphasised, in combination with practicality, comfort and long-distance cruising.
The Adventure SUV category
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price between R800 000 and R1 200 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). Eligible vehicles must be equipped with an electronic stability programme (ESP), a minimum of 6 airbags, split-folding rear seats, all-wheel-drive capability (of course), as well as a minimum ground clearance of 200 mm.
Pillars of success for this category include performance, space & practicality, in-car entertainment, comfort and all-surface ability.
Best Adventure SUV: CarsAwards WINNER
Ford Everest 3.0 V6 Wildtrak
The 3rd-generation Ford Everest has brought new levels of space, comfort and technology to the bakkie-based 7-seater segment. With the most powerful engine in the segment, the 3.0-litre V6-powered Everest provides epic performance, both for driving and towing. The cabin is a plush place to be, providing luxury and comfort in abundance. All of this goodness comes at a steep price, however.
The Isuzu MU-X feels indestructible and could drive to any part of the planet (well, virtually). This new-generation model sees the introduction of new infotainment- and semi-autonomous safety technology, plus upgraded trim. The 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine may sound like it’s lumbering, but you get the feeling that the dogged MU-X is built to last. Inside, it offers impressive levels of comfort and cabin space.
Even though it’s the longest-serving finalist in this category, the Toyota Fortuner continues to be a top-selling Adventure SUV in Mzansi and it’s easy to understand why. It has an enviable reputation for build quality and reliability, backed by a substantial dealership footprint and excellent after-sales service.
The 2.8-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine does a great job of balancing performance with economy, and the updated VX trim ensures several creature comforts, gadgets and gizmos are present and correct.
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
If your new-car budget allows you to shop in the R250 000 to R350 000 segment, any of the 3 finalists in the Budget Hatch category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa, should be on your shortlist. But Suzuki really knows how to build impressive, affordable cars and that’s why the Baleno took the top spot.
In these cash-strapped times, almost everyone is on a tight budget. Does buying an affordable new car therefore mean that you have to compromise on safety, technology and quality? No, not necessarily.
The 2024 Best Budget Hatch must represent “as much new car as you can get for your money”. Value for money is important, as are running costs and other “common sense” considerations.
The Budget Hatch category
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price between R250 000 and R350 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023). What’s more, eligible vehicles in this category must have an anti-lock braking system (ABS), dual front (or more) airbags and a service plan.
Pillars of success for this category include fuel economy, value for money, practicality and brand strength.
Best Budget Hatch: CarsAwards WINNER
Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX
It’s a delight to find a spacious, well-thought-out and generously equipped budget hatchback that doesn’t cost a fortune to buy or own. Although it still utilises the underpinnings of its predecessor, the 2nd-gen Baleno remains one of very few “oversized” small hatchbacks that offer good rear legroom; it’s well-made, suitably comfortable, has a proven, fuel-frugal powertrain and is renowned for its reliability.
The latest iteration of the Renault Clio took its time to get to South Africa and while some suggest the B-segment hatch segment is no longer that relevant, the Clio (and the other finalists) represent great value. The Clio is powered by a small-yet-punchy turbopetrol engine, boasts a modern cabin and has all the “bells and whistles” considered essential at this price point. Luggage space is surprisingly generous too.
While it may be a clone of the Suzuki Baleno, the Starlet has a few tricks up its sleeve, such as Toyota’s renowned after-sales backup, a strong resale proposition and the support of the widest vehicle dealer network in Mzansi. The latest iteration of the model incorporates more obvious aesthetic differences to the Baleno, but the Toyota also impresses with its abundant cabin space, great engine and good value.
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
Looking for a spacious, reasonably affordable hold-all for the family? Toyota’s locally-manufactured Corolla Cross is the 2024 Best Compact Family Car in the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa. However, the 2 runners-up in this category are also well worth considering…
With household budgets stretched to breaking point, a reasonably affordable family car needs to wear many hats. The 2024 Compact Family Car has to excel at being a compact urban runabout, a sufficiently spacious school-run vehicle and, on occasion, a source of transport for weekend getaways.
Practicality and spaciousness are important considerations, but so are safety, technology, fuel efficiency and load-carrying flexibility.
The Compact Family category
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors include a list price between R400 000 to R500 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023), an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC), a minimum of 4 airbags, split-folding rear seats, air conditioning and a service plan.
Pillars of success for this category include powertrain flexibility, fuel economy, space and practicality, design and quality appeal, comfort and safety.
Best Compact Family Car: CarsAwards WINNER
Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 XR
Toyota took its time to enter the small crossover market but now offers several models in that segment. The locally-assembled Corolla Cross is the crowning achievement in that line-up; by going the raised body route with the Corolla platform, the nameplate has captured a new audience. The Corolla Cross offers the best of Toyota: spaciousness and comfort, allied with excellent reliability, service and backup.
Haval has rapidly become one of the most popular brands in the South African new-vehicle market and the primary reason for the Chinese brand’s success is the Jolion, which ticks nearly all the boxes for a modern, connected, practical and resolved compact family car. At this price point, the Jolion comes with a long list of standard features, a cabin that feels upmarket, a 5-year warranty and a 5-year service plan.
The Renault Duster looks rugged and, fittingly, ready to take some of Mzansi’s less-than-well-maintained roads in its stride. It boasts commendable cabin space, a large load bay, and several in-car entertainment features. The ace in its deck is its turbodiesel motor, which offers excellent fuel economy to complement a pliant ride quality. What’s more, the raised ride height makes it quite capable of traversing gravel roads.
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
