The Car Guide

Based on Red Bull Racing’s championship-winning RB20, a limited number of RB20 show cars are up for sale for the first time.  Image: F1 Authentics A full-scale reproduction of the Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 car Max Verstappen piloted to victory in the 2024 F1 Drivers’ Championship is now up for sale through F1 Authentics . The replica is officially licensed by Oracle Red Bull Racing, created using Team design data. The F1 car with which Verstappen secured his fourth Drivers’ World Championship saw the Dutch driver achieve nine race wins, 18 podium finishes, eight pole positions and 589 points. For the first time, a collection of RB20 show cars has been authentically reproduced by Oracle Red Bull Racing partner Memento Exclusives, and is available for collectors to buy. Oracle Red Bull Racing first made its show cars available to be purchased last year, with only a limited number of RB18 and RB10 full-scale replicas offered to enthusiasts. Only 10 recreations of the RB20 will be p...

Revology has unveiled the Boss 429, which blends the classic style of a 1969 Ford Mustang with the underpinnings of a modern Mustang GT. Image: Revology Revology , a Florida-based company that builds modernised versions of 1960s Mustangs and Shelby GTs, has revealed the Revology Boss 429. Based on a 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429, the modernised muscle car retains the original’s classic aesthetic, while gaining several mechanical upgrades, sourced from modern Mustangs. The original 7.0-litre V8 that came as standard on the 1969 Mustang Boss 429 has been replaced with a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 Coyote engine that produces 659 kW and 827 N.m, and is mated to a Tremec T-56 Magnum XL six-speed manual as standard. A Ford 10R80 10-speed automatic ‘box is available as an option. The reimagined classic  Mustang is built on an all-new steel body, which was assembled using automated welding processes, as well as extensive seam-welding and structural adhesives. The result of rebuilding the...

Volkswagen Group Africa has confirmed what 2026 looks like for its popular Amarok double-cab package, including a potential Ranger Raptor rival. VW Amarok Dark Label. Image: Volkswagen Following the news that Ford will make significant changes to powertrain configurations on forthcoming updated versions of the Ranger and Everest , Volkswagen Group Africa has confirmed to us that these changes will, by default, be shared with its Ranger-based Amarok package. As a reminder, the modern Amarok is assembled as part of a technology-sharing agreement between these two brands on the same Silverton production line as the Ranger. While these changes mean the discontinuation of the 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel mill in favour of an upgraded version of the 125 kW/405 Nm 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel unit – now paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission – it also means the availability of a new 2.3-litre, four-cylinder turbopetrol engine in both the Ranger and Amarok, which, as has been report...

The Defender Dakar D7X-R has been unveiled in full competition livery ahead of its 2026 Dakar Rally debut. Image: Land Rover Scheduled to compete in the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), including the gruelling Dakar Rally, in 2026, the Defender Rally team has finally revealed the Defender Dakar D7X-R in full competition livery. Based on the Defender Octa , the Dakar D7X-R will compete in the ‘stock’ category of the 2026 W2RC. Although sharing the most potent series-production Land Rover Defender’s D7X architecture, eight-speed automatic transmission, and 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol motor, the British marque’s Dakar competitor gains several rally-ready modifications. The latter includes increased ground clearance, upgraded suspension, a 60 mm wider track, 35-inch tyres, extended underbody protection and wheel arches, enhanced cooling elements, and a 550-litre fuel tank (for the sustainable fuel on which this Defender runs). A competition-specification roll cage is a...

In partnership with distributor Salvador Caetano Auto South Africa, JMC has re-entered the SA market with the Vigus bakkie.  Image: JMC JMC has officially relaunched in South Africa, with the Chinese marque’s initial local product offering comprising its Vigus range of double- and single-cab bakkies. Along with the firm’s new partnership with distributor Salvador Caetano Auto South Africa, JMC intends to establish around 40 dealerships nationwide by 2026, while the current-generation Vigus will now be delivered to the brand’s first dealerships. The JMC Vigus will be available with the choice of two powertrain options – the single-cab with a 103 kW/310 N.m 2.4-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, and the double-cab with a 104 kW/350 N.m 2.0-litre turbodiesel with the same number of cylinders. Coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the latter unit delivers power to the road via either a 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain. Both models ...

Ulterio Motiv has showcased its Ford Ranger 6×4 in Cape Town. Pricing for this conversion below. Image: Ulterio Motiv Armoured vehicle specialist SVI Engineering’s Ulterio Motiv sister company recently showcased its 6×6 Toyota Land Cruiser bakkie conversion. However, that’s not all vehicle the South African company previewed to media. Ulterio Motive also demonstrated the prowess of its 6×4 Ford Ranger. Based on the 2.0 SiT Super Cab 4×4 automatic derivative, while a 6×6 conversion is also available for the single-cab 4×4 variant, the 6×4 model was designed for a wide variety of applications, including camping, commercial, emergency, and skip carrying. The conversion comprises extending the donor car’s chassis to accommodate the non-driven third axle, which gains a set of disc brakes and an electric handbrake. The aft suspension’s bogie system puts 40% of rear mass on the third axle and 60% of the load mass on the middle axle (driven wheels). The loading capacity has been increa...

Mitsubishi has whipped the wraps off the Triton Savana, a limited-edition Triton designed for off-roading. Image: Mitsubishi Mitsubishi has unveiled the Triton Savana, a special edition of the new-generation Triton double-cab, which we’ve evaluated for a road test in 2025. Exclusively available in South America, the Savana variant is based on the range-topping Triton model available in the latter market. The Savana adds off-road accessories and two new exterior colours – Rally Yellow and Forest Green – to the Triton package. The Savana edition features rock sliders, which serve a dual purpose as side steps; a roof rack; and a functional snorkel – the latter increasing water-wading depth. The Savana sits on 18-inch black alloy wheels, wrapped in off-road tyres. The Triton Savana’s 2.4-litre, four-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine churns out 150 kW and 470 N.m. Power is delivered to the road via an eight-speed automatic transmission and Mitsubishi’s Super Select II 4WD system. The ...

An entrepreneur from Thailand has handed the outgoing Toyota Hilux a fresh new face…in the shape of the new Hilux’s. Image: Pasit Reddevill/Facebook Scheduled to launch in South Africa in 2026, the new Toyota Hilux was officially revealed on 10 November 2025. However, if you’re not quite ready to part with your eighth-generation model, but want to “refresh” it with the ninth iteration’s face, an entrepreneur from Thailand offers such a conversion. Posted on Facebook by Pasit Reddevill , the images show that the conversion not only comprises fitting the new Hilux’s front end to the outgoing model’s, however. Indeed, the rear end receives a similar treatment, with taillamps similar to the next-generation Hilux’s replacing that of the outgoing, current iteration. And those with a keen eye will notice the ‘GR’ badge on the front grille. (A virtual artist recently released a render of how the next Hilux GR-Sport could look like.) As a reminder, the ninth-generation Hilux retains th...

For a limited time, Mazda South Africa is offering the entry-level Mazda2 with a R50 000 promotional price saving. Image: Mazda The entry-level Mazda2 is now available in South Africa at a reduced, promotional price for a limited time – the Japanese automaker’s local arm slashing R50 000 off the Active Edition variant’s original sticker price. The opening gambit to the four-strong lineup, the Active derivative ships with a traditional audio system, replete with Bluetooth connectivity, a four-speaker sound system, manual air conditioning, a multifunction steering, and cloth upholstery for the seats. Safety items include a quartet of airbags, Isofix child-seat anchorages, and ABS with EBD. Mazda2 Active Edition Price in SA For a limited time, Mazda South Africa is offering the Mazda2 Active Edition at a reduced price of R271 500. Included in the price are a three-year/unlimited km service plan and five-year/unlimited km warranty. Image: Mazda As a reminder, the Mazda2 exclusive...

South African company Ulterio Motiv has showcased its Toyota Land Cruiser 79 6×6 conversion in Cape Town. See pricing below. Image: Ulterio Motiv South African armoured-vehicle specialist SVI Engineering’s sister company, Ulterio Motiv, which specialises in six-wheel conversions for both commercial and recreational use, has showcased its six-wheeled Land Cruiser bakkie at a recent event in Cape Town. Built to represent the ultimate 70-series Land Cruiser, Ulterio Motiv’s Land Cruiser 79 6×6 was designed for as a bespoke vehicle for camping, off-roading, and emergency services. The six-wheel-drive Land Cruiser 79 features three differential locks – two standard and one on-demand for the third axle – to prevent wheel spin when going off the beaten track. To improve braking, an upgraded hydraulically-assisted brake booster can be specified as an (R18 950, excl. VAT) option. Suspension and components from Ironman 4×4 are also available at additional cost. The 6×6 conversion increase...

With Z4 production scheduled to come to an end in 2026, BMW is celebrating this nameplate’s history with the introduction of the Final Edition models. Image: BMW The successor to the BMW Z3, the Z4 was introduced in 2002. However, following 14 years and three generations, production will come to an end in 2026. And to celebrate the Z4’s heritage, the German marque has announced the Z4 Final Edition. So, what sets the special edition apart from its stablemates? Well, for starters, the Z4 Final Edition distinguishes itself with model-specific Frozen Matt Black paintwork. The package also includes M Gloss Shadowline exterior trim elements. The M Sport brake callipers are finished in red. The latter hue is carried over to the interior, for the contrast stitching on the M Alcantara steering wheel, Vernasca-upholstered seats, facia, centre console, and door trims. The Final Edition package will be available with all Z4 derivatives: 145 kW sDrive20i and 190 kW sDrive30i, and M40i. As a ...

The updated Audi S3 Sportback and Sedan have officially launched in South Africa. See pricing below. Image: Audi Boasting an increase in power and torque, along with several mechanical updates, the fresh-faced Audi S3 has launched in South Africa. Starting with the engine, the S3 is now endowed with the same power and torque outputs as its Mk8.5 Golf R cousin, which we sampled in Germany earlier in 2025. As a reminder, that’s 245 kW and 420 N.m – increases of 32 kW and 20 N.m over the pre-facelifted S3. The full complement of twisting force is available in a broad 2 100-5 500 r/min swathe of the rev band and is delivered to the German marque’s quattro all-wheel-drive system via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. According to the firm, the S tronic unit has been refined with a sharper shift pattern. Throttle response has also been optimised for improved acceleration, the automaker says. Audi claims the more powerful S3 completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.7 seconds, before to...

Following keen interest from customers, Isuzu Motors South Africa has added Onyx Black metallic to the colour palettes of D-Max V-Cross and Arctic Trucks AT35. Image: Isuzu Isuzu Motors South Africa has announced the introduction of a new colour option – Onyx Black – for the D-Max V-Cross and Arctic Trucks AT35 models. According to Isuzu SA, the decision to introduce Onyx Black metallic to the V-Cross and AT35 D-Max derivatives is based on the success of the MU-X Onyx , which we evaluated for a road test in 2025, and D-Max X-Rider Black , and following keen interest from customers, the automaker decided to make this hue available for the D-Max V-Cross and AT35 variants. As a reminder, the D-Max V-Cross is powered by Isuzu’s long-standing 3.0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which churns out 140 kW and 450 N.m of torque – the latter available from a mere 1 600 r/min. Power is transferred to either a 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain via a six-speed automatic transmission. The Japanes...

Ford South Africa has announced the updated Everest model lineup for 2026, with the revised range gaining a new engine option and Active derivative. Image: Ford Recently, Ford South Africa announced major changes for the 2026 Ranger lineup. However, the Ranger isn’t the only Blue Oval product that will receive revisions for 2026. Indeed, the Everest portfolio will also be updated for the new year. This includes the addition of a new engine option, specification updates, and the introduction of the Active derivative, which will replace the XLT as the new entry-level model in the local Everest range. Available with the choice of 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains, and exclusively coupled with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, Active models will employ the carmaker’s single-turbo (SiT) 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, which has been upgraded with the fitment of a new timing chain. The SiT unit produces 125 kW an 405 N.m of torque. As a reminder, Ford SA will discontinue the 154 k...

Sharpening up the current 911 GT3’s already astounding on-track capabilities, Porsche has unveiled a new Manthey Kit for its most focused 911.  Image: Porsche Porsche has unveiled a new Manthey Kit for the 992.2-generation 911 GT3, which we’ve sampled at the international launch event in Spain in 2025. Building on the Weissach Package, the Manthey Kit adds aerodynamic components for increased downforce, as well as modified suspension and upgraded brakes. Noteworthy, equipped with this package, the 911 GT3 completed a lap around the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 6:52.981 minutes; 2.76 seconds faster than the previous-generation (992.1) 911 GT3 fitted with a Manthey Kit. The underbody has been designed as a continuous aerodynamic component, complete with larger turning vanes (1.5 m) for additional downforce. Switched to Circuit mode, the 911 GT3 fitted with the Manthey Kit produces 540 kg of downforce at 285 km/h. The front lip has been extended by 12 mm, and diffuser fins and ...

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has announced major changes to its 2026 Ranger model lineup. We’ve rounded up what you can expect from the revised range. Image: Ford As we’ve reported earlier in November, for the 2026, Ford will discontinue the familiar 2.2-litre, four-cylinder twin-turbocharged diesel engine in the Ranger lineup. Instead, the manufacturer has upgraded the single-turbo (SiT) 2.0-litre oil-burner with a new timing chain. The six-speed automatic transmission coupled with this engine will also be discontinued and replaced by the 10-speed self-shifter. A six-speed manual will remain exclusively available with the 4×4 single-cab XL model. In addition, more models will gain the firm’s 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel unit. The company will also introduce the 2.3-litre, four-cylinder turbopetrol motor to select derivatives in the local Ranger portfolio. As a reminder, the 2.0-litre SiT unit produces 125 kW and 405 N.m of torque, while the most powerful oil-burner on offer...

Gordon Murray Special Vehicles’s S1 LM has set a new auction record for new cars at an RM Sotheby’s auction. Image: RM Sotheby’s Revealed in August 2025, Gordon Murray Special Vehicles’ (GMSV) S1 (Special One) LM pays homage to the McLaren F1 LMs of the 1990s. Only five examples – the same number of F1 LMs built – of this Le Mans-inspired GMSV supercar will be produced, and one of these units has recently set a new auction record at an RM Sotheby’s auction. Indeed, sold for an eye-widening $20 630 000, the S1 LM has become the most expensive new car (not including charity sales) ever sold at auction. At the current Rand-Dollar exchange rate, this figure translates to R356 million! The S1 LM is equipped with a bespoke 4.3-litre Cosworth V12 engine producing over 522 kW and 501 N.m of torque. Sited midships, the naturally aspirated unit howls to a 12 100 r/min redline. Power is exclusively delivered to the rear axle via a six-speed manual transmission. Image: RM Sotheby’s Wra...

Available in all-electric and plug-in hybrid guises, Geely has announced pricing and specifications for the E5. Image: Geely Earlier in November 2025, Geely announced it has partnered with WesBank to not only create a foothold in the South African market once the Chinese brand relaunches its SA operations by the end of 2025, but also make new-car ownership more accessible to South Africans. Now, as the Hangzhou automaker gears up to make its official return to SA, it has announced pricing for its E5 crossover/SUV. Available with battery-electric and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains – the latter indicated by the ‘EM-i’ denomination – the E5 lineup comprises four derivatives. The duo of all-electric model is equipped with a single electric motor producing 160 kW and 320 N.m of torque. According to the firm, the E5 EV offers an operating range of up to 410 km when its 60.22 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery pack is fully charged. The EM-i variants’ PHEV arrangement comprises a s...

Porsche has whipped the wraps off the first factory re-commissioned first-generation Cayenne. Image: Porsche Earlier in November 2025, Porsche revealed the Cayenne Electric , the first emissions-free series-production Cayenne produced by the German automaker. However, now, the Stuttgart-based brand has whipped the wraps off a reimagined first-generation GTS. The first factory-recommissioned Cayenne, the car you see here was restored and customised as part of Porsche’s Sonderwunsch (‘special request’) programme. The 2009 Cayenne GTS was commissioned by Phillip Sarofim, an American entrepreneur and car collector who drew inspiration from the 911 Spirit 70. The 16-year-old Cayenne has only clocked around 80 500 km on the odometer since new. Exterior upgrades include the fitment of a tow hitch and more off-road-focused tyres. The Cayenne is finished in Blackolive, a colour from the firm’s Paint to Sample programme, while matte black accents were added to the lower half of the body a...

Toyota South Africa Motors has revised the Rumion, handing the compact MPV safety and tech upgrades, and added practicality. See pricing below. Image: Toyota Earlier in 2025, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) introduced an array of upgrades to its Urban Cruiser and Starlet model ranges. Now TSAM has handed its Rumion portfolio a fresh round of updates, introducing upgraded safety and convenience items, while increasing the Suzuki Ertiga-based model’s exterior dimensions for enhanced practicality. Starting with the safety upgrades made to the Rumion, all models now ship with side and curtain airbags, in addition to the existing driver and front passenger items, and the second-row bench gains a third headrest and three-point seatbelt (as opposed to the previously fitted lap belt) for the middle occupant. To improve convenience, SX trim gains a USB-C charging port in the second row, while TX grade further adds a USB-C port in the rearmost seating compartment. The Rumion’s roof ha...

The Nissan Navara has been around since 2017, but should you consider it as a used buy on SA’s second-hand market in 2025? Image: Nissan The Nissan Navara (D23 generation) has been a prominent fixture in the South African market since its initial arrival as an import in 2017. Its defining characteristic upon introduction was the pioneering use of an SUV-like coil-spring rear suspension setup in the double-cab segment, a design choice intended to offer superior ride quality and refinement. This initial phase set the groundwork for a significant shift in June 2021, when a heavily updated version, featuring a substantial facelift and numerous technical improvements, began local production at Nissan’s facility in Rosslyn, South Africa. This strategic move positioned the Navara as “built in Africa for Africa”, tailoring it more specifically to local conditions and preferences. Related: New Nissan Navara Officially Revealed A rundown on the Nissan Navara The D23-series Navara in So...

The Chery Tiggo 7 CSH plug-in hybrid has been awarded the full complement of five stars at a recent Euro NCAP safety test. Image: Euro NCAP The Chery Tiggo 7 CSH (Chery Super Hybrid) recorded a strong showing at a recent Euro NCAP test, where it received the full complement of five stars for safety. The plug-in hybrid Tiggo 7 scored high in all four key safety categories, including Adult Occupant Protection, Child Occupant Protection, Vulnerable Road User Protection, and Safety Assist. The Tiggo 7 CSH scored 82% for Adult Occupant Protection, which Chery attributes to the vehicle’s 60% steel frame and steel-reinforced A- and B-pillars. In the Child Occupant category, the Tiggo 7 CSH scored 85% thanks to its i-Size-compliant child seat anchors, rated for six- and 10-year-old child occupants. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking contributed to the overall score of 80%  in the Vulnerable Road User Protection category. The Tiggo 7’s suite ...

Bowers & Wilkins has launched its latest McLaren Edition headphones in collaboration with McLaren Automotive and the McLaren Formula 1 Team. Image: McLaren Developed in collaboration with McLaren Automotive and the McLaren Formula 1 Team, Bowers & Wilkins has launched the Px8 S2 McLaren Edition wireless headphones. Following the Pi8 McLaren Edition, this is the third set of headphones created through the McLaren and Bowers & Wilkins partnership . The special-edition headphones are finished in Anthracite Grey and features McLaren-inspired Papaya accents, as well as Speedmark details on the headband and ear cups. The former is trimmed in cushioned Nappa leather. Diamond-cut edges can be found around the Bowers & Wilkins logo. Based on the Px8 S2 wireless headphones, the McLaren Edition adds improved performance through upgraded, bespoke 40 mm Carbon Cone drive units and more advanced noise-cancellation technology. Said Giles Pocock, Vice President of Brand Marketing...