The Car Guide

Honda has handed a selection of updates to the Japanese-market HR-V. With the revisions, the automaker aims to refine the compact SUV’s exterior aesthetic, while introducing more standard features to lower-specced models. Image: Honda For the 2027 model year, the Honda HR-V adopts subtle updates – the latter previewed by the Vezel, as the compact SUV is known in the Japanese market.  The most prominent exterior revisions come in the shape of dark headlamp inner lenses, and body-coloured bumper garnishes and wheel arches. Higher-tier models feature dark clear 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, lower grades gain rear air vents and two additional USB-C charging ports. Mid-spec variants add heated front seats. The overall mechanical setup remains unchanged, with the powertrain lineup comprising the existing petrol and hybrid (e:HEV) powertrains. Also read: 2026 Honda CR-V e:HEV: South African pricing and specs How the updated Honda CR-V differs from current South African mod...

The Mitsubishi Outlander Diamond Trail debuts for SEMA 2026 as an off-road-inspired package for the midsize SUV… Image: Mitsubishi Mitsubishi Motors North America marked a major comeback at the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, US, with the Japanese carmaker returning to the world-famous automotive aftermarket event for the first time since 2012. Taking centre stage at Mitsubishi’s exhibit was the 2028 Outlander Diamond Trail Edition. T his debut drives the next phase of the company’s ‘Momentum 2030’ business strategy, which focuses on expanding vehicle capability and building models for more adventurous clientele. Six vehicles grace the stand, ranging from factory adventure-focused models to customised off-road builds. This release follows the global reveal of the new Pajero, which has been confirmed for South Africa , and reinforces the brand’s commitment to four-wheel-drive technology. Off-Road capability and technology Image: Mitsubishi The O...

Grootman Chief Product Manager Mark Qi has told Australian media that Chery ‘already considered an SUV’ when the Chinese automaker designed the double-cab bakkie’s platform.   AI-generated render of a Chery Grootman-based SUV As reported by CarExpert , Grootman Chief Product Manager Mark Qi said Chery “already considered an SUV” when it designed the double-cab bakkie’s ‘Kaitan’ ladder-frame architecture. However, while Qi noted the Wuhu brand knowns “this platform has the capability to develop an SUV”, development of a Grootman-based rival to the Toyota Fortuner , Ford Everest, and Isuzu MU-X — the latter of which recently received a new Bi-Turbo engine — remains unconfirmed. While Qi said such a project is “easy”, there are several aspects to consider, with pricing noted as being among the latter.   Watch: Chery Grootman driven in China ahead of 2027 South African launch While Chery has yet to announce local pricing for the Grootman, as we noted in our 2027 Chery Grootman vs BY...

Toyota South Africa has confirmed the next Hilux GR-Sport will make its debut in 2027. But what can we expect from the new pinnacle model? Render of the new Toyota Hilux GR-Sport. Image: Theottle/YouTube Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has confirmed to CAR magazine that the new Hilux GR-Sport (GR-S) will make local landfall in 2027. While details remain thin on the ground, the next Hilux GR-S , seen here as a render by digital artist Theottle , will likely follow a similar formula as its predecessor — more imposing front grille, widebody kit wrapping around wider front and rear tracks, upgraded suspension, and bespoke design elements. The latter includes GR exterior decals, ‘GR’ branding inside and out, and red contrast stitching in the cabin, to name but a few items. Details surrounding the apex Hilux’s powertrain also remain under wraps. However, it seems likely that, similar to its predecessor, the new GR-S could employ an uprated version of the Japanese automaker’s tried-and-t...

Featuring a selection of adventure-minded items, Volkswagen has revealed the new Grand California camper van with the Dune Special Edition. Image: Volkswagen Based on the Crafter, Volkswagen has revealed the new Grand California camper van. This adventure-minded model’s interior features a fold-out dining area, compact kitchen, and a built-in shower. Hard-wearing Atami Bamboo surfaces and matching wood-effect flooring complete the cabin trim. Available as an option, the Off-Grid Package includes solar panels and two 40 Ah lithium-iron phosphate batteries. Specified with the latter kit, usable battery capacity is increased by 40%. In addition, VW also introduced a Dune Special Edition, which features Ascot Grey exterior paintwork, black bumpers and 17-inch Lismore alloy wheels, and ‘Dune’ decals. Automatic LED headlamps with daytime-running lights improve visibility. Interior upgrades include Climatronic air conditioning and ambient lighting. Also read: New VW Ca...

Commemorating 75 years in the UK, Porsche has revealed a market exclusive 911 GT3 Touring, dubbed Earls Court 51 Edition. Image: Porsche The 911 GT3 Touring Earls Court Edition was designed to celebrate Porsche Cars GB’s 75th anniversary of official UK market presence. This follows a list of market exclusives commemorating the German automaker’s presence in countries like Kuwait and Australia. The Earls Court 51 Edition is based on a 992.2-generation 911 GT3 Touring. Developed in collaboration with the firm’s Exclusive Manufaktur division at the company’s factory in Stuttgart, the exclusive model is finished in bespoke Earls Court Green metallic paint. The colour is lifted directly from the original 356 shown at London’s Earls Court Motor Show in October 1951, harking back to the German marque’s UK beginnings. To be sold in Britain, 51 units of the Earls Court Edition GT3 Touring will be produced, priced from 251 951 GBP (approximately R5 598 326,02). Included in the price are...