The Car Guide

Looking for a budget-friendly compact SUV but don’t want to row cogs yourself? Well, we have compiled a list of the most affordable compact crossovers equipped with automatic transmissions in South Africa.  12=. Jaecoo J5 1.5T Core – from R339 900 Image: Jaecoo The Jaecoo J5, which we sampled over the 2025/2026 festive season, employs a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 115 kW and 230 N.m. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a CVT transmission. This drivetrain is employed across the four-strong local J5 model range, which is priced from R339 900 for the entry-level Core model . 12=. Omoda C5 1.5T 230T Street + – from R339 900 Image: Omoda The Omoda C5 is powered by a 115kW/230 N.m 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which, in Street + spec is paired with a CVT transmission. However, unlike its Jaecoo J5 sibling, the C5 can also be had with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (from C5 X guise). It is worth noting that the models equip...

The Ineos Grenadier Station Wagon and Quartermaster bakkie have been handed key updates for the 2026 model year. Image: INEOS Ineos has handed the Grenadier Station Wagon and Grenadier Quartermaster bakkie a few key updates to improve everyday usability and off-roading prowess. The revisions include a upgrades to the climate control system and ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems), and, perhaps most noteworthy, reworked steering setup, which features a variable ratio for the first time. According to the British marque, the lower ratio around the central steering position provides a “firmer” feel to deliver “more precision” and “greater” responsiveness. The ratio at each end of the steering gear remains unchanged to ensure the rugged off-roader remains capable off the beaten track. The turning circle has also been reduced, by around 5%, to ensure improved manoeuvrability round town and in tight off-road settings.  “We’ve continuously enhanced and upgraded the Grenadier sin...

A report has suggested that Chery and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) are in talks about the Chinese automaker using the extra capacity of JLR’s UK factories to produce Chery and Omoda & Jaecoo models. Image: Chery Recently, Chery South Africa has announced that, come mid-2026, it will purchase Nissan SA’s Rosslyn production plant . As we reported on 23 January 2026, “This shift comes amid mounting pressure on Chinese manufacturers, with new Chinese State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) guidelines prohibiting below-cost vehicle pricing, alongside tighter export rules taking effect in 2026.” However, it seems that there may be more in the Wuhu-based brand’s future regarding the manufacturing of its vehicles. Indeed, according to a report from Financial Times , the Chinese marque and Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) are currently in discussion regarding the production of Chery and Omoda & Jaecoo vehicles at one of JLR’s assembly facilities in the UK. The negotiations – which are ...

Mercedes-Benz has lifted the veil off the thoroughly revised S-Class, with the updated model sporting fresh exterior design elements, upgraded tech, and, perhaps the most noteworthy, a new V8 engine option. Image: Mercedes-Benz S-Class Mercedes-Benz has handed the S-Class a round of thorough updates, including a new V8 engine option. So, let’s first take a look at the powertrain lineup… The S350d 4Matic employs a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six incorporating 48 V mild-hybrid tech – the latter of which providing a 17 kW/205 N.m boost for short durations. The S350d 4Matic produces 230 kW and 650 N.m. The full complement of torque is available from a low 1 200 r/min. According to the firm, these figures allow the S350d 4Matic to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint in 5.4 seconds, before topping out at 250 km/h. The average fuel consumption is rated at 6.2 L/100 km. The S450d 4Matic employs the same 3.0-litre, six-cylinder oil-burner as the S350d 4Matic, though gains a boost in power ...

We have rounded up the eight most powerful bakkies available in South Africa in SA. See the full list below… In the highly competitive local bakkie segment, there are several double-cabs producing significant power outputs. But who takes the crown as most powerful in South Africa? Well, we have compiled a list comprising the eight most powerful bakkies in SA in 2026. 7=. Ford Ranger 3.0TD V6 4WD – 184 kW Image: Ford SA The 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 employed by the Ranger 3.0TD V6 4WD (seen here in Platinum guise) produces 184 kW, which is transferred to all four corners via a ten-speed automatic transmission. 7=. Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 TDI V6 4Motion – 184 kW Image: Volkswagen Sharing the Ford’s 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel, the Amarok (seen here in Aventura spec) is also endowed with 184 kW, making it the second-most powerful model in VW’s local Amarok lineup. 6. Jeep Gladiator 3.6 Rubicon – 209 kW Image: Jeep The Jeep Gladiator is powered by a naturally-aspirated V6 petrol...

Based on a 964-generation Porsche 911, Singer has whipped the wraps off its first 911 DLS Turbo, dubbed ‘Sorcerer’.   Image: Singer In 2023, Singer announced the 911 DLS Turbo, a reimagined 964-generation Porsche 911 sporting a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six, coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, carbon-fibre bodywork, and a massive rear wing. Now, the first in the California-based company’s Dynamic & Lightweighting Study (DLS) series of 911 recreations has been delivered to its owner. Named ‘Sorcerer’ by the commissioning client, this model’s bodywork is finished in Fantasia Blue and sits atop forged magnesium, 19-inch front/20-inch rear centre-locking wheels specified in a Champagne finish. The wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres and house CCM-R carbon-ceramic brake discs. A nose-lift system has also been fitted to this model. The 3.8-litre horizontally-opposed six-pot produces 522 kW and 750 N.m of torque, delivered to the road v...

Confirmed for South Africa, Renault has whipped the wraps off the updated, India-built Duster. Image: Renault The updated Renault Duster will be assembled in India, at Renault’s Chennai production facility, where the SA-bound Nissan Tekton , which shares its underpinnings with the Duster, will also be built. Based on the Renault-Nissan Alliance CMF-B platform, in India, the refreshed Duster will be available with the choice of three powertrain options, spearheaded by the E-Tech 160 unit. The latter, petrol-electric powertrain pairs a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol internal combustion engine (ICE) with two electric motors, fed by a 1.4 kWh battery pack. Coupled with a ‘multimode’ automatic transmission, the hybrid setup produces 118 kW (the automaker has yet to release the torque output). Renault claims a combined driving range of “approximately” 998 km. Image: Renault The remaining two engine options are internal combustion-only. This includes a 1.0-litre turbo...

While we wait for BMW to officially reveal the next-generation 3 Series, a render has previewed what the upcoming model could look like. Image: NYMammoth/Instagram Following the new BMW iX3, which we sampled for a first drive at the international launch event in Spain towards the end of 2025, the second model in the German marque’s portfolio destined to receive the brand’s latest design language is the next 3 Series sedan, which will launch in 2027. Now, while the eighth iteration remains in development, a render by designer Kyoungsoo Kim, aka NYMammoth , has shown what the upcoming generation could look like. The render’s headlamps are similar to the iX3, though flank a decidedly sleeker interpretation of BMW’s kidney grille (the iX3’s closed-off front grille features a vertical design). NYMammoth also took inspiration from the E46 and E90 generations’ purposeful stances; interpreting it for a cleaner, more futuristic look. The lower bumper design is familiar to the current...

Hyundai Automotive South Africa has announced a strategic partnership with 2007 Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok skipper John Smit. Image: Hyundai Hyundai Automotive South Africa, the fourth best-selling car brand in South Africa in 2025 , has partnered with John Smit, who captained the Springboks to their 2007 Rugby World Cup win. Smit, who has represented the Springboks on 111 occasions, was handed the keys to the new Santa Fe , which we evaluated for a road test in 2025. “John Smit is not only one of South Africa’s most respected sporting figures, but also a proven leader whose journey from elite sport to business leadership resonates strongly with our brand. This is not a sponsorship. It is a strategic partnership built on shared principles, trust and a long-term vision,” said Stanley Anderson, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa. Smit added, “From our very first conversations, it was clear that Hyundai is a brand driven by quality, innovation and progress. The values t...

The third-generation Tucson roamed SA roads from 2016 to 2021. Should you consider it as a used buy in 2026? Image: Hyundai SA The third-generation Hyundai Tucson was introduced to South Africa in 2016 and moved away from the “ix35” nomenclature to claim the globally recognised ‘Tucson’ nameplate. This model arrived at a time when Hyundai was positioning itself as a premium alternative to established Japanese and European rivals. Lauded for its blend of high-end aesthetics, generous standard specification, and one of the most comprehensive warranty packages in the country, the TL generation quickly became a strong player in the local C-SUV segment. By the time the fourth-generation model took over in 2021, the third-gen Tucson had solidified its reputation as a reliable family transporter, consistently appearing at the top of South Africa’s best-seller lists. The third iteration’s success was further bolstered by the introduction of the locally-developed Tucson Sport derivatives. ...

Chery South Africa is set to acquire Nissan’s local manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, South Africa, in 2026. Image: Nissan Nissan opened its Rosslyn production plant, where the Japanese automaker has produced new vehicles for six decades, in 1966. Now, this historic assembly facility is set to change hands, with Chery and Nissan having reached an agreement on the Chinese automaker its acquiring the South African-based plant. This shift comes amid mounting pressure on Chinese manufacturers, with new Chinese State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) guidelines prohibiting below-cost vehicle pricing, alongside tighter export rules taking effect in 2026. While these measures limit the ability of brands to offer deep discounts in markets such as South Africa, they have also intensified discussions around localised production as a strategic response to potential import duty increases being considered by the South African government. While certain conditions are yet to be agr...

The local arm of Mercedes-Benz has announced the introduction of the GLC 200 4Matic. Here’s what you can expect from the upcoming model. Image: Mercedes-Benz Following Mercedes-Benz South Africa releasing revised pricing for its GLC SUV portfolio, the local arm of the German marque announced the introduction a new derivative to the lineup – the GLC 200 4Matic. Joining the diesel-powered models (220d and 300d) in the GLC SUV range, the GLC 200 employs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine incorporating 48 V mild-hybrid tech. The four-cylinder unit produces 150 kW and 320 N.m of torque, delivered to all four corners via the Stuttgart automaker’s 9G-tronic nine-speed automatic transmission. Stepping inside, the GLC 200’s interior plays host to a portrait-oriented, 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto screen mirroring, and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. A wireless smartphone charging tray is also present. Further included as...

Volkswagen has unveiled a prototype version of the SA-bound Amarok Walkinshaw edition.  Image: Volkswagen Developed in collaboration with Australian tuning company Walkinshaw Automotive Group, Volkswagen has revealed the Amarok Walkinshaw double-cab bakkie. While the Amarok Walkinshaw, also referred to as the W600 (a nod to its maximum torque figure), has mostly been unveiled, the German marque has yet to whip the camouflage off this edition’s (model-specific) front fascia. The Amarok Walkinshaw features 3D-printed Walkinshaw badging, black wheelarch cladding, wider mud flaps, and 20-inch alloy wheels – the latter shod in Michelin Sport 4 SUV road tyres. Electrically actuated side steps are fitted as standard. The package also gains dual side-exit exhaust outlets, positioned behind the right rear wheel. Upgraded suspension comes in the form of new Koni shock absorbers, front and rear, which has been tuned by Walkinshaw. A 22 mm rear sway bar has also been fitted for improve...

Mercedes-Benz has updated the pricing of the GLC SUV model lineup for 2025. See pricing below. Image: Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz South Africa has announced it has restructured its GLC product lineup, with the local arm of the German marque releasing revised pricing for its popular premium midsize SUV. Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV price in SA The GLC 220d Avantgarde and GLC 220d AMG-Line are now priced from R1 184 474 and R1 269 175, respectively; R53 447 less than the previously. The GLC 300d Avantgarde and GLC 300d AMG-Line are now priced from R1 334 474 (previously R 1 474 718 ) and R1 419 175 (previously R1 559 419), respectively. Included in the price is a two-year/unlimited km warranty and a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d Avantgarde – R1 184 474 Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d AMG-Line – R1 269 175 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d Avantgarde – R1 334 474 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300d AMG-Line – R1 419 175 As a reminder, the GLC SUV lineup employs 2.0-litre, four-c...

Lamborghini has noted 2025 was its most successful customer car delivery year to date.  Image: Lamborghini Automobili Lamborghini achieved a successful year for customer car deliveries in 2025. The Sant’Agata Bolognese-based automaker delivered 10 747 cars worldwide. The goal was 10 000 cars and this surpasses the number of deliveries in 2024. Lamborghini provides for three main world macro-regions. Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) was the leading market with 4 650 cars delivered. Then, not far behind,  3 347 units were delivered in the Americas. Lastly, a total of 2 750 cars were delivered in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. “2025 was marked by significant geopolitical and macroeconomic turbulence, resulting in differing dynamics across the markets in which we operate […] the offering of highly competitive products and a distribution approach designed to preserve the exclusivity of the range, Lamborghini was able to achieve strong results,” said Federico Foschin...