The Car Guide

Paying tribute to the Patrol’s desert racing history, Nissan has introduced the Dune Patrol Concept. Image: Nissan Nissan’s US arm has whipped the wraps off the Dune Patrol Concept ahead of its public debut at the 2025 SEMA Show, which will take place from 4-8 November in Las Vegas. Based on the Armada Pro-4X, the Dune Patrol Concept is equipped with the same motor as the SA-bound new Nissan Patrol , which sports a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 endowed with a healthy 317 kW and 700 N·m of torque. Power is sent to all four corners via a nine-speed automatic transmission. A nod to the Patrol’s desert racing legacy, the concept car is finished in a desert-inspired hue and features ‘Dune Patrol’ livery. However, the most noteworthy revisions featured on this concept are its several off-road-focused modifications. The latter includes bespoke long-travel racing suspension, wider wheel arches, and prototype NISMO 18-inch AXIS beadlock wheels, shod in 37-inch Yokohama tyres. In addition...

Sharing its underpinnings with the Hilux, how could the new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ look as a double-cab bakkie? Image: Theottle Earlier in October 2025, Toyota officially revealed the highly-anticipated new FJ-badged Land Cruiser. Now, with the box-fresh Land Cruiser FJ sharing its IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) underpinnings with the Hilux , automotive virtual tuner Theottle has decided to hand the Japanese automaker’s most compact Land Cruiser the “bakkie” treatment; releasing a video, which you can watch below, showcasing just how they transformed the “baby” Land Cruiser into a double-cab. Confirmed for SA in 2026, the Land Cruiser FJ is equipped with Toyota’s proven 2.7-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, which is currently available in select current-generation Hilux models. In the latter application, the 2TR-FE unit is coupled with a five-speed manual gearbox, which delivers 122 kW and 245 N.m to the road via a rear-wheel drivetra...

Subaru has whipped the wraps off the Performance-B STI concept at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show…and it has all the makings of a thoroughbred STI model. Image: Subaru Since Subaru discontinued the WRX STI in 2021, we’ve heard very little from the Japanese automaker whether this lauded nameplate will make a return to its products. However, the firm’s latest concept, showcased at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, suggests that the STI moniker may make a comeback as an internal combustion-powered model…and in the shape of a hot hatch, no less. Fingers crossed! Named Performance-B STI, the concept car sticks to the formula enthusiasts have come to know and adore of the brand’s STI models. Based on the second-generation WRX, which has been converted into a five-door hatchback with a full STI bodykit, the show car sports reworked fore and aft bumpers, widened wheel arches, front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, a bonnet scoop and vents, and a massive rear wing. While engine sp...

Displayed at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, the Suzuki Victoris is currently under consideration for the South African market. Here’s what we know about this product… Image: Suzuki 1. It’s built in India Sharing its Suzuki Group C underpinnings with the modern Grand Vitara and its Toyota Urban Cruiser clone, the Victoris is assembled at Maruti Suzuki’s Kharkhoda Plant in Haryana, India. The new model has the same 2 600 mm wheelbase as its relations, yet is slightly longer from bumper to bumper. In the Indian market, Maruti lists the Hyundai Creta as a rival to the Victoris. 2. This is a so-called global product Suzuki has stated that the Victoris is a global model and is planned for export to over 100 countries across Asia, the Middle East, South and Central America, and Africa. 3. Differences between the Victoris and the Grand Vitara While they share underpinnings and a wheelbase length, as Suzuki’s new flagship SUV product, the Victoris distinguishes itself via a modern desi...

Changan has officially entered South Africa, with the Deepal S07 all-electric SUV spearheading the Chinese automaker’s local product portfolio. See Pricing below. Image: Changan Changan has officially launched in South Africa with a five-strong model lineup comprising the Alsvin sedan, CS75 Pro midsize SUV, the turbodiesel Hunter bakkie, Hunter REEV (range-extended electric vehicle) double-cab, and the all-electric SUV you see here, the S07, which falls under the automaker’s Deepal sub-brand. Exclusively available in L spec, the S07 employs a single electric motor, which produces 160 kW and 320 N.m of torque. According to the brand, these figures all0w for a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 7.9 seconds. Equipped with an 80 kWh battery pack, the S07 L offers a claimed operating range of up to 560 km when fully charged. The firm says a 30-80% DC fast charge takes 35 minutes. 2025 Deepal S07 Price in SA The Deepal S07 L is priced from R995 900, which includes a five-year/150 000km ve...

Changan has officially entered the South African market, with the Alsvin sedan serving as the entry point into this Chinese automaker’s local product porfolio. See pricing below. Image: Changan Changan’s entry into the local market comes with an initial five-model local product portfolio – Alsvin sedan, CS75 Pro midsize SUV, which we sampled in an exclusive first local drive, Hunter 2.0 turbodiesel bakkie, Hunter REEV (range-extended electric vehicle), and the Deepal S07 all-electric flagship SUV. The Chinese automaker’s most affordable model locally, the Alsvin is available in two flavours: CS and CE. The former employs a 1.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine producing 74 kW and 135 N.m, sent to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The CS derivative is equipped with a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol mill delivering 78 kW and 145 N.m to the road via a five-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Changan claims average fuel consumption figures of 5.8 and 6.9 L/100 km for ...

The first all-electric Alfa Romeo has landed in South Africa, with the Italian automaker’s local arm announcing pricing and specs for the Junior lineup. See pricing below… Image: Alfa Romeo The Alfa Romeo Junior has officially launched in South Africa, with the Italian marque’s first all-electric vehicle available in two flavours in our market: Elettrica and Elettrica Veloce. The Elettrica and Elettrica Veloce are equipped with a single front-mounted electric motor, delivering power to the road via the front wheels. The Elettrica produces 118 kW and 260 N.m of torque, which allows for a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 9.0 seconds, the Turin brand says. The “standard” Elettrica tops out at 152 km/h. Spearheading the range, the Veloce model is endowed with 207 kW and 345 N.m – good for a claimed 0-100 km/h sprint time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h. 2025 Alfa Romeo Junior Price in SA The two-strong local Junior Elettrica lineup is priced from R799 900. Included in the packa...

BYD has announced the Sealion 5 is en route to South Africa, with the Chinese automaker revealing when it will arrive in our market.  Image: BYD Positioned below the Sealion 6 in BYD’s model portfolio, the Sealion 5 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has been confirmed for South Africa, with the Chinese automaker’s local arm announcing when it will launch in our market. Built on the firm’s DM-i (Dual Mode intelligence) platform, the Sealion 5’s PHEV powertrain pairs a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with a single electric motor for a combined system output of 145 kW and 300 N.m of torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Overseas, the Sealion 5 is available with the choice of two battery options: 12 kWh and an 18.3 kWh – the former and latter offering emissions-free operating ranges of 61 km and 94 km when fully charged, respectively. The Shenzhen brand claims a combined average fuel consumption of 1.4 L/100 km when ...

Scheduled to make its public debut at the 2025 SEMA Show, Toyota has unveiled the Turbo Trail Cruiser, a reimagined Land Cruiser FJ60 sporting a twin-turbocharged V6 engine.  Image: Toyota Billed as a “performance-inspired” build, Toyota has whipped the wraps off the Turbo Trail Cruiser ahead of its public debut at the 2025 SEMA Show, which takes place from 4-8 November in Las Vegas, US. Reimagined for the modern age, the 1985 Land Cruiser FJ60-based model retains the original’s exterior styling, though gains a significant under-the-bonnet upgrade. Indeed, the Japanese automaker has ditched the original 4.2-litre inline-six mill in favour of a 3.4-litre twin-turbocharged V6. Sourced from the Tundra bakkie, the i-Force motor produces 290 kW and 649 N.m of torque, making it over two times more powerful than the unit it replaces. However, although boasting more power and twisting force, the manufacturer says the modern powerplant offers improved efficiency and refinement, and red...

Changan has introduced the Hunter REEV to South Africa, with the Chinese automaker’s local arm announcing pricing and specs for its electrified double-cab bakkie. Image: Changan Changan has officially launched its local operations, with the Chinese automaker’s South African portfolio comprising five model lineups: Alsvin sedan, CS75 Pro midsize SUV, which we sampled in an exclusive first SA drive, turbodiesel Hunter bakkie, Deepal S07 all-electric SUV, and the double-cab you see here, the Hunter REEV (range-extended electric vehicle). The Hunter REEV’s powertrain pairs a duo of electric motors, fed by a 31.18 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, which essentially acts as a generator for the electric setup. The REEV arrangement produces a total system output of 200 kW and 470 N.m. The company claims an electric-only operating range of up to 145 km and a combined driving range of 1 000 km. The Hunter REEV is equipped ...

As the Touareg is entering its final year of production, Volkswagen is saying farewell to its flagship SUV with a Final Edition model. Image: Volkswagen Following a 25-year lifespan, and over 1.2 million units sold over three generations, Volkswagen will end Touareg production in 2027. Now, the celebrate its flagship SUV, the German automaker has announced a Final Edition model. The Touareg Final Edition features a host of cosmetic enhancements, including ‘Final Edition’ lettering, laser-engraved onto the window trim of the rear doors and embossed on the leather gear lever. The ‘Final Edition’ insignia is illuminated on the dashboard and the tread plates. Ambient lighting is also present. The special edition rolls on a set of black alloy wheels. As a reminder, in South Africa, the Touareg, which we sampled in Cape Town in February 2025, is exclusively available with the Wolfsburg brand’s 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine, which churns out 190 kW and 600 N.m of torque – the forme...

Billed as the world’s first digital hypercar, Ferrari has unveiled the F76, a non-fungible token (NFT) commemorating the Italian marque’s success in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. Image: Ferrari Ferrari has unveiled the F76, the Italian marque’s first “digital hypercar”. The F76 celebrates the 76 years the Maranello-based manufacturer has been competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the success the Prancing Horse brand has achieved in this lauded motorsport event. The F76 wasn’t designed to be a production car, however; instead, it is the only digital asset of its kind – created for clients who belong to Ferrari’s exclusive Hyperclub programme. The F76 is an initiative that will help fund the 499P race car in the FIA International Endurance Championship. Designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, headed by Flavio Manzoni, the F76 doubles as a design manifesto for future Ferraris. The carmaker states that the concept is inspired by biomimetics, architectural principles, en...

The third-generation Mitsubishi Outlander left our market a few years ago, but is it worth considering as a used buy? Image: CAR Magazine The Mitsubishi Outlander is somewhat of an under-the-radar player in South Africa’s midsize-SUV segment. However, it still offers seven-seat versatility and a reputation for durability that suits our diverse roads. Built in Okazaki, Japan, the third-generation model (ZJ/ZK) launched locally in 2014 and was phased when the fourth generation arrived in 2023 – the latter ushering in sharper styling and improved efficiency to the Outlander package. For buyers in the second-hand market, it’s a value-packed choice – spacious and capable of towing, and later models should still be under Mitsubishi’s five-year/100 000 km warranty. Introduced to South Africa in 2014, the third-gen Outlander replaced the second iteration with a sleeker, coupé-like roofline and a monocoque platform shared with the Nissan Rogue. The Outlander sported a usable 215 mm ground ...

The Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary Private Collection marks 100 years of the iconic Phantom nameplate. Only 25 examples will be produced.  Image: Rolls-Royce Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Phantom Centenary Private Collection, a limited-edition model celebrating 100 years of the Phantom nameplate. Based on the Phantom VIII, the bespoke creation pays tribute to the people, places, and milestones that have shaped this model’s century-long legacy. Production is limited to just 25 examples. The exterior features a two-tone, Super Champagne Crystal and Black finish. The paintwork’s shimmering effect was achieved by infusing iridescent crushed-glass particles into the clear coat, with standard metallic flakes replaced by champagne-coloured items, and the quantity doubled for greater depth and brilliance. The Spirit of Ecstasy is crafted from solid 18-carat gold, using the original 1925 casting from the first Phantom. It is then plated in 24-carat gold, before being tested and certifie...

As we near the local launch of the BAIC B30 in November 2025, the Chinese automaker’s local arm has announced indicative pricing for its compact adventure-focused crossover/SUV.  BAIC B30 Scheduled to launch in November 2025, Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation ( BAIC ) is gearing up for the local introduction of the B30. Positioned below the B40 Plus in the Chinese automaker’s SA lineup, the B30 measures 4 730 mm long, front to rear, and 1 910 mm wide – dimensions comparable to that of the recently launched Jetour T1 and T2 . The B30 sports a 2 820 mm wheelbase and 215 mm of ground clearance. The B30 lineup will be offered with the choice of petrol-only and hybrid powertrain options. The ICE variant employs a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbopetrol producing 138 kW and 305 N.m of torque, while the 1.5-litre hybrid unit is available in single and dual electric-motor guise. Equipped with a single electric motor, the hybrid setup delivers 246 kW and 550 N.m to the road via the...

On 25 and 26 October 2025, the Mother City played host to the inaugural Speed Classic Cape Town, where nearly 15 000 spectators lined Philip Kgosana Drive to witness the first Cape Town-based hillclimb event in 60 years. We recap the highlights. Image: Speed Classic Cape Town The inaugural Speed Classic Cape Town took place at the foot of Table Mountain on 25 and 26 October. The Philip Kgosana Drive-based 1.8 km hillclimb featured two events: Classic Car Saturday and King of the Mountain Sunday. The former showcased around 70 classics, modified road cars, and vintage single-seaters, while the latter featured nearly 80 supercars, track specials, modified saloon cars and modern single-seaters. Each day included practice and qualifying sessions, followed by class finals in which the quickest drivers went head-to-head for the title of fastest in class. Classic Champion Day 1 of Speed Classic Cape Town concluded with the class finals, where 24 competitors battled for the fastest tim...

Sporting fresh exterior and interior design language, and upgraded tech, Hyundai has whipped the wraps off the new Venue. Image: Hyundai The first-generation Hyundai Venue made its global debut in 2019, with a mid-cycle facelift following three years later. Now, following a lifespan of six years, the original Venue will soon bow out to make way for the second generation. Front to rear, the box-fresh Venue’s bodywork measures 3 995 mm long. However, although it is similar in length than the outgoing model, the new iteration is both wider (up 30 mm to 1 800 mm) and taller (up 48 mm to 1 665 mm). The wheelbase has also been stretched, by 20 mm to 2 520 mm. The revamped Venue was unveiled with the choice of 1.2-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbopetrol, and 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engines. Although the local introduction of the new Venue has yet to be announced, we expect the South African lineup will exclusively be offered with the 1.2- an...

The Jetour T1 and T2 have made local landfall, with the Chinese automaker’s South African arm announcing pricing and specs for the duo of T-Series crossover/SUVs. See pricing below. T1. Image: Jetour The most compact T-Series in the Chinese carmaker’s local portfolio, the T1 measures 4 705 mm in length, 1 967 mm in width, and 1 843 mm in height. The ground clearance is rated at 190 mm. The T2 stands 1 880 mm tall, with a ground clearance of 220 mm, and measures 4 785 mm front to rear and 2 006 mm wide. Both models’ wheelbases span 2 800 mm. Underpinned by monocoque chassis, both the T1 and T2 are available with two four-cylinder turbocharged petrol powertrains: 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre – the former and latter producing 125 kW/270 N.m and 180 kW/375 N.m, respectively. While both engines are coupled with seven-speed dual-clutch transmissions, the 1.5-litre unit exclusively sends drive to the front wheels, with the 2.0-litre delivering power to the road via a four-wheel drivetrain. J...

BMW South Africa has revealed the Gary Player Signature 7 Series, a bespoke M760e model inspired by the SA golf legend it was named for.  Image: BMW Through the firm’s Individual Manufaktur service, BMW South Africa has produced a personalised M760e xDrive inspired by SA golf icon Gary Player. The luxury saloon features exclusive finishes and materials, and intricate detailing that reflect both Player’s legacy and BMW’s dedication to customisation. The exterior is finished in two-tone, Black Sapphire Metallic and BMW Individual Dravit Grey Metallic to exude what the automaker calls “understated elegance”. Player’s signature logo is laser-engraved in the C-pillars, while the handcrafted interior showcases embroidered upholstery, engraved trim pieces, and subtle golf-inspired elements. Complementing the design are Parsons Xtreme Golf (PXG) accessories, a Montblanc key box, and a bespoke writing instrument. In July 2025, Player visited the BMW Group Plant in Dingolfing, Germany ...

Speed Classic Cape Town has announced former F1 driver and 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Jan Lammers will compete in this event’s Classic Car Saturday on 25 October 2025.  Set to take place on Philip Kgosana Drive from 25 to 26 October 2025, Speed Classic Cape Town will feature a 1.8 km hillclimb where Lammers will compete behind the wheel of a green and white 1984 Jaguar TWR XJS during the Classic Car Saturday event, before the King of the Mountain showdown on Sunday. The car was previously raced by British driver Tom Walkinshaw, who achieved numerous victories with it. The drive holds personal significance for Lammers, who raced under the Tom Walkinshaw Racing banner – including during his 1988 Le Mans victory. Born in Zandvoort, Netherlands, home of the Dutch Grand Prix, Lammers began his motorsport journey at a local skid school, run by the legendary Rob Slotemaker. After winning the 1978 European Formula 3 Championship, he made his F1 debut in 1979, competing in 41 Grands Pri...

South African motorists might breathe a sigh of relief in the coming month, with fuel prices expected to drop in November 2025. We detail the projected fuel price cuts. With the pricing of Brent crude having dropped below $62 per barrel and strengthening of the Rand against the US Dollar, South African motorists could expect some relief at the fuel pumps in the coming month. According to local publication BusinessTech , the price of unleaded and diesel is expected to drop in November 2025. Expected Fuel Price Cuts for November 2025 Although the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has yet to confirm the projected figures, the expected price cuts for unleaded 93 and 95 are 63 and 59 cents per litre, respectively, while the cost of diesel 500 ppm and 50 ppm is expected to drop by 35 and 34 cents per litre, respectively. The price of illuminating paraffin is expected to decrease by 16 cents per litre. Unleaded 93 – decrease of 63 cents per litre Unleaded 95 – decrease of 59...

Priced from below R550 000, Changan has entered the hotly-contested local double-cab bakkie segment with the turbodiesel Hunter. Image: Changan Changan has entered the South African market, with this Chinese automaker’s initial local product portfolio comprising five models: the Alsvin sedan, CS75 Pro midsize SUV, which we sampled in an exclusive first SA drive, Deepal S07 all-electric SUV, and a duo of Hunter bakkie model lines — the Hunter 2.0L and Hunter REEV (range-extended electric vehicle). Now, while the firm has yet to reveal pricing for the REEV derivative, it has listed the 2.0L lineup on its SA website. 2025 Changan Hunter Price in SA Currently comprising two derivatives, Changan’s local Hunter 2.0L lineup is priced from R449 900 for the 2WD manual variant, with the 4WD auto model costing R569 900. Included with the pricing is a five-year/150 000 km warranty (the company has yet to announce whether a service/maintenance plan is included with the package). Changan H...

Buoyed by the imminent reveal of the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux, the local bakkie market is expected to see several key updates and introductions in 2026. We unpack what’s coming, as well as what we think is on the horizon. New Toyota Hilux Render of 2026 Toyota Hilux. Image: BestCar Set for a 2025 Tokyo Mobility Show reveal , while mystery surrounds whether the long-awaited ninth-generation Toyota Hilux will indeed be all-new or a heavily revised version of the venerable current offering, what’s likely is that the upcoming Hilux will gain an interior and switchgear broadly mimicking that of the modern Land Cruiser Prado. The new Hilux is also set to continue with modern versions of Toyota’s 2.4 and 2.8 GD-6 turbodiesel powertrains, the latter incorporating 48 V mild-hybrid technology. Updated Ford Ranger No doubt scheduled to coincide with the arrival of the new Toyota Hilux, Ford is expected to give its modern Ranger (and Everest) packages a relatively significant update...