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Top 10 most dependable car brands according to J.D. Power 2026 study

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We have rounded up the top ten most dependable car brands based on a recent study by J.D. Power, ranking vehicle reliability based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles. Image: Lexus Global market research and consumer insights company J.D. Power has recently released its 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, which identifies the most dependable vehicles based on overall problems per 100 vehicles during the first 90 days of ownership over nine problem categories. The 2026 results show a two-point increase in problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), resulting in an industry average of 204 PP100. In other words, A score of 204 PP100 means that, on average, owners reported 2.04 issues per car. A lower score indicates better vehicle quality, and vice versa. The 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study covers 184 specific problem areas throughout nine vehicle categories: climate, driving assistance, driving experience, exterior, features/controls/displays, infotainment, interior, powertr...
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Track-focused Ferrari 296 spotted in camouflage

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New spy shots suggest Ferrari is developing a track-focused 296 Challenge Stradale. Image: Derek Photography As we anticipate the full reveal of the all-electric Ferrari Luce , a camouflaged 296, believed to be a Challenge Stradale prototype, has been spotted being tested on public roads. The spy shots suggest a new limited-edition, track-focused Ferrari is set to be unveiled this year. The vehicle sports revised front and rear bumpers, a more pronounced front splitter, a large rear wing and a set of new wheels. A full interior and standard windows, as opposed to a stripped-out cabin and polycarbonate side windows, likely rule out the possibility of the prototype being a 296 Challenge Evo, a track-only variant of the road-going Ferrari 296. Unlike the 296 Speciale , which was unveiled in 2025, the 296 Challenge Stradale could employ a non-hybridised version of the Italian firm’s 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine. However, whether this model will be powered by a non-electrifie...
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Ultra-limited SA-only Range Rover SV Platinum Edition: price & specs

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Land Rover South Africa has unveiled the Range Rover SV Platinum Edition, an ultra-limited version of the firm’s flagship SUV exclusively available in SA. Image: Range Rover Land Rover South Africa has unveiled the Range Rover SV Platinum Edition, a limited-run P615 SV exclusive to our market. Only five examples will be available. The Platinum Edition’s exterior is finished in bespoke Platinum Satin paintwork, replete with Silver Chrome and Graphite Atlas detailing. The contrast roof’s gold-coloured hue matches that of the badging, while the set of 23-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels feature Satin Gold inserts. The cabin is upholstered in Perlino and earth-toned Caraway leather, complemented by silver noble chrome accents and a natural cream Ash Burr veneer. The seats and scatter cushions feature satin stitching and unique geometric pattern embroidery – the latter inspired by traditional wooden block-printing techniques originating from the Limpopo province. A similar motif can be ...
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iCAUR details engineering behind SA-bound T03 all-electric SUV

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Scheduled to launch in South Africa in 2026, iCAUR has detailed the ‘high-tech’ engineering behind the T03 all-electric SUV. Image: iCAUR As we highlighted in Every Chinese car confirmed for SA in 2026 , the iCAUR 30T is scheduled to launch in South Africa this year. Now, Chery’s new-energy sub-brand has detailed the engineering, testing, and manufacturing processes used in developing this all-electric off-roader. Assembled at Chery’s South Smart Factory – which uses 100% automation in key processes, while all 105 critical welding points and 436 dimensional measurement points are inspected using an AI-based visual inspection system – the T03 undergoes several quality testing programmes, including in cold and heat, humidity, dust, and on uneven terrain to evaluate corrosion resistance, powertrain performance, sealing integrity, body rigidity, and long-term material stability. The T03’s body structure is made of 6-series aluminium and is constructed using a combination of MIG arch...
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Nissan Gravite revealed: Renault Triber-based compact MPV for SA?

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Based on the Renault Triber, the Nissan Gravite has made its debut … and it appears likely that it could make its way to SA. Image: Nissan India In December 2025, Nissan released teaser images of its Gravite compact MPV. Now, the Japanese automaker’s Indian arm has finally whipped the wraps off its Renault Triber-based model offering. Produced at Renault-Nissan Alliance’s Chennai plant in India, the Gravite is distinguished from its Renault step-sibling via subtle exterior design elements, with the most notable coming in the shape of a new front grille. ‘Gravite’ badging can be found on the bonnet and tailgate. In India, the Gravite is available with the choice of seven trim grades, ranging from manual-only Visia to range-topping Tekna Launch Edition EZ-Shift. Based on local model denominations, if the Gravite were to make its way to our market, it will likely be offered in Visia, Acenta and Acenta Plus levels of specification. The Gravite is powered by a 52 kW/96 N.m 1.0-litre...
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Suzuki Across ‘coming soon’ to SA

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Suzuki South Africa has announced the Across compact SUV is ‘coming soon’ to our market. Image: Suzuki In 2026, Suzuki SA is set to expand its local SUV portfolio with the introduction of the Across. Now, while the exact launch date remains unconfirmed, the local arm of the Japanese automaker has announced that the compact SUV is “coming soon”. The Across, also known as the Victoris in the Indian market, is produced at Maruti Suzuki’s Kharkhoda, Haryana factory in India. Locally, the Across will be positioned above the Grand Vitara as the firm’s flagship model offering. The Across measures 4 360 mm in length and 1 655 mm in height, making it longer and taller than the Grand Vitara. However, it shares the latter model’s width and wheelbase measurements – 1 795 mm and 2 600 mm, respectively. While local specification has yet to be confirmed, the Across is available with the choice of two trim grades in other markets, such as the UK. This includes GL and GLX. Sounds familiar? Well, ...
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New Toyota Land Cruiser FJ to get Hilux’s diesel engine – report

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A report from Japan has suggested that the new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will get the same diesel engine employed by the Hilux and Land Cruiser Prado in the future. Image: Toyota Scheduled to launch in South Africa in the second quarter of 2026, the new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will be exclusively powered by the Japanese automaker’s long-standing (2TR-FE) 2.7-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, tuned to produce 120 kW and 246 N.m of torque. However, a report from Japan has now suggested the latest FJ-badged Land Cruiser will gain a diesel engine option in the future. Indeed, according to Japanese publication Best Car , the Land Cruiser FJ could get the firm’s tried-and-trusted 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel – the same unit employed by the Hilux and Land Cruiser Prado. As a reminder, in the former and latter applications, the 1GD-FTV motor produces 150 kW and 500 N.m. Also read: New Toyota Land Cruiser FJ to cost less than top-of-the-range Hilux Sharing ...
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