The Car Guide

CAR Editor Ian McLaren reports back from the GWM stand at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, which kicked off on 24 April 2026. Baoding-based Great Wall Motors (GWM) had a suitably impressive showing at the 2026 Beijing International Auto Show, including showcasing each of its sub-brands. Here’s a summary of what stood out, as well as what’s been confirmed for South Africa. Showstopper Image: GWM An undoubted showstopper on the GWM stand was the new Tank 700, which, together with a suitably standout body kit complete with massive alloy wheels, spoilers and a roof-mounted rear wing, features this brand’s new Hi4-Z powertrain. This pairs a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) setup for a combined power output of 635 kW. This allows the flagship Tank 700 to launch from 0-100 km/h in a claimed 5.6 seconds, while being able to travel in all-electric mode for up to 190 km. GWM South Africa says the Tank 700 will be under consideration for local introducti...

JAC South Africa has introduced a new entry-level derivative to its T8 double-cab bakkie portfolio. See pricing below… Image: JAC The newly introduced T8 double-cab employs a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which produces 104 kW and 320 N.m of torque – the former and latter available from 3 600 and a low 1 600 r/min, respectively. The four-cylinder unit is exclusively coupled with a six-speed manual transmission. Power is delivered to the road via the rear wheels. In the press material, JAC claims a fuel consumption of 6.5 L/100 km. Matching the firm’s claim translates to a range of over 1 000 km from a full, 76-litre tank of fuel. The T8 double-cab measures 5 325 mm in length and 1 880 mm in width – dimensions comparable to that of the Toyota Hilux . The T8’s wheelbase spans 3 090 mm. The ground clearance is rated at 210 mm. The T8’s load bed measures 1 520 mm long, 1 520 mm wide, and 470 mm deep. The T8 offers a payload capacity of 900 kg and a braked towing capacity of 2 ...

Geely has announced when its new-energy bakkie sub-brand, Riddara, will launch in SA. Image: Geely The Riddara RD6 measures 5 260 mm in length, 1 900 mm in width, and 1 880 mm in height. The wheelbase spans 3 120 mm. The Riddara’s load bed is 1 525 mm long, 1 450 mm wide, and 540 mm deep. The RD6 sports a 225 mm ground clearance. The local lineup will initially comprise two models, 4WD Air and 4WD Pro – both of which offering a braked towing capacity of 3 000 kg and payload capacity of 1 030 kg. The maximum water-fording depth is rated at 815 mm. The 4WD Air and 4WD Pro’s dual electric-motor powertrain produces combined system outputs of 315 kW and 595 N.m of torque. According to the firm, these figures allow the all-paw all-electric double-cab to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds, before topping out at 190 km/h. 4WD models feature seven driving modes: Comfort, Economy, Sport, Off-road, Mud, Snow, and Wading. Also read: 9 most powerful bakkies in SA in 2026 Ridda...

From new models to updated lineups, we highlight every bakkie that’s been confirmed to launch in South Africa in 2026. New Toyota Hilux Image: Toyota In February 2026, the ninth-generation Hilux was spotted in SA . However, despite being spotted on our shores, at the time, an official launch date for the new Hilux, which we detail in our Come the Hour: New Toyota Hilux feature, had yet to be announced. Well, fast forward to April 2026, and the local launch date for the ninth iteration of SA’s best-selling bakkie has been confirmed – June 2026. Based on an updated version of the Japanese automaker’s IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle) platform – the latter also underpinning the SA-bound new Land Cruiser FJ , which will cost less than the top-of-the-range Hilux – the box-fresh Hilux retains the outgoing, eighth-generation model’s trusted GD-6 powertrain, available in “standard” and 48 V mild-hybrid format. The 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine will be a...

We’ve unearthed pricing for the Ferrari Amalfi Spider. See pricing below… Image: Ferrari Replacing the Roma in Ferrari’s model lineup, in July 2025, the Italian marque whipped the wraps off the Amalfi . As we noted upon the reveal of the latter model, a Spider (convertible) version of this new Ferrari could follow in due course…and it did, with the Maranello manufacturer revealing the Amalfi Spider in March 2026. We can now confirm how much the Amalfi Spider costs in South Africa. As a reminder, the drop-top version of Ferrari’s “entry-level” offering employs a 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 470 kW and 760 N.m of torque – the latter available in a broad 3 000-5 750 r/min swathe of the rev band. Peak power output is available from 7 500 r/min. The front-mounted petrol unit delivers drive to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Despite weighing 86 kg more than its (1 470 kg, claimed) fixed-roof sibling, the Amalfi Spider dispatches the obli...

Scheduled to launch in SA in 2026, Chery has revealed fresh details of its Tiggo V ‘transformable’ SUV/bakkie. Image: Chery In 2025, Chery unveiled a prototype version (codenamed ‘T1TP’) of its then-upcoming “transformable” (to a bakkie!) SUV at its International User Summit in Wuhu, China. However, at the time, the Chinese automaker remained tight-lipped as to whether the production version of this convertible SUV/bakkie will make its way to South Africa in the future. Well, Chery has now confirmed that we can expect this model to arrive on our shores towards the end of 2026. Revealed as the Tiggo V at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, the production model is touted as “one vehicle for all scenarios”; taking the shape of a seven-seater SUV or double-cab bakkie to meet “evolving” family and lifestyle needs. Indeed, according to the firm, the Tiggo V “delivers a flexible, multipurpose design that adapts effortlessly to different use cases, whether for everyday driving, family road trip...

Isuzu South Africa has revealed the updated D-Max bakkie is ‘coming soon’ to our market. Image: Isuzu Unveiled in 2023, the facelifted current-generation Isuzu D-Max is scheduled to arrive in South Africa “soon”, as revealed by the Japanese automaker on its local website. However, on a dedicated page, where customers can enter their details to remain updated on the fresh-faced model’s official launch, the firm states that the revised third generation “is not just a facelift”, with the updates signifying “more than a new look”. Indeed, the company says the upcoming variant is “a smarter, tougher drive that stays true to its roots, while moving forward where it counts” – an “evolution of proven capability”. As a reminder, in September 2025, Isuzu announced the introduction of a 120 kW/400 N.m 2.2-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine option – the latter replacing the 110 kW/350 N.m 1.9-litre turbodiesel unit in select overseas markets – to its D-Max and MU-X portfolios. ...

Chery SA has revealed to CAR magazine that the brand is ‘pushing hard’ to launch its new double-cab bakkie, codenamed ‘KP31’, in our market in 2026. Image: Chery In February 2026, Chery officially unveiled a prototype version of its upcoming new bakkie, codenamed ‘KP31’, and along with the reveal, the Chinese automaker’s South African arm announced the production version of this box-fresh double-cab has been confirmed for SA – the local launch penned in for the fourth quarter of 2026, or first quarter of 2027. However, a local representative of Chery has now told CAR magazine that the brand is “pushing hard” to launch the yet-to-be-named production model, which employs a “world-first” plug-in hybrid (PHEV) diesel powertrain, in our market in 2026. Also read: SA-bound Chery KP31 bakkie interior revealed So, if the ‘KP31’ does arrive in our market in 2026, it will form part of the several new bakkies that’s still penned in to launch in our country this year – the latter includ...

Revealed in November 2025, the new Toyota Hilux is scheduled to make its official local debut this year. Here is when it will launch in South Africa… Image: Toyota 2026 is set to be a big year for Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), with the local arm of the Japanese automotive giant having confirmed an array of new models for our market – the latter including the box-fresh Land Cruiser FJ and new RAV4 . Locally built, the ninth-generation Hilux will also make its SA debut in 2026…and we can confirm when it will launch in our market. The new Hilux was revealed with the automaker’s trusted 2.8GD-6 powertrain, available in either “standard” or 48 V mild-hybrid configurations – the latter of which incorporates an 8.4 kW/65 N.m electric motor generator and DC-DC converter. Carried over from the eighth-generation model, the 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine produces 150 kW and 500 N.m of torque when paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, or 420 N.m in six-speed manu...

GMW has confirmed the Haval H7 Plus for SA, with the Chinese automaker announcing when the seven-seater SUV will launch in our market. Here’s what we know so far… Image: CarNewsChina Showcased at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, which runs from 24 April to 3 May, we got a closer at GWM’s SA-bound Haval H7 Plus — known as the Menglong Plus in its home market, where the Big Dog (or H7) Plus is essentially an updated version of the “standard” H7 available in our market. Available as a seven-seater, the H7 Plus measures 4 912 mm in length, 1 950 mm in width, and 1 905 mm in height — dimensions comparable to that of the Ford Everest and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. The H7 Plus’ wheelbase spans 2 850 mm. GWM quotes a ground clearance of 221 mm and a water-fording depth of 580 mm. The H7 Plus is powered by a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol internal combustion engine (ICE) paired with dual electric motors — sited on the front and rear axles, respectively. The Hi4 (Hybrid Intelligen...

GWM has confirmed the Haval Jolion Max for the SA market. We detail the Jolion Pro’s larger sibling… Image: GWM GWM has announced the Haval Jolion Pro’s larger sibling, the Jolion Max, is en route to South Africa, with the Chinese automaker’s local arm confirming when this model will launch in our market. In terms of exterior dimensions, the Jolion Max slots in between the Jolion Pro and H6 in GWM’s Haval product portfolio. The Jolion Max measures 4 590 mm in length; making it 120 mm longer than the Jolion Pro and 113 mm shorter than the H6. The Jolion Max’s bodywork is 1 877 mm wide. Compared to its Jolion Pro sibling, the Max sports a 10 mm-longer wheelbase, at 2 710 mm. Although the local model lineup and specifications have yet to be announced, the example pictured here is equipped with automatic LED headlamps and 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior plays host to 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment, 7.0-inch digital instrumentation, a wireless smartphone charging tray, and a p...

BMW South Africa has announced the SA-only M2 RR Edition, a new limited-run model developed alongside the M 1000 RR/S 1000 RR M2 Edition special-edition superbikes.  Image: BMW In a bid to showcase their familial connections, for the first time, BMW South Africa and BMW Motorrad SA have teamed up to develop new special editions based on a vehicle and a duo of superbikes – the former and latter coming in the shape of the M2, and M 1000 RR and S 1000 RR. Distinguishing the M2 RR Edition from its “standard” M2 stablemate, the limited-run model’s bodywork is finished in Black Sapphire Metallic. It also features unique front and rear splitters, replete with black and red inserts, and a large rear wing. The M2 RR Edition sports a specially customised Akrapovič exhaust system. Stepping inside, the M2 RR Edition’s black and red seat upholstery is complemented by red contrast stitching. A sunroof is fitted as standard. Also read: BMW M2 333i Homage Edition unveiled for SA BMW M2 ...

Mazda South Africa has introduced the 2026 model-year Mazda2. We detail what’s new on the updated model lineup. See pricing below… Image: Mazda Featuring subtle exterior enhancements and the inclusion of fresh tech, Mazda South Africa has announced the 2026 model-year Mazda2 is now available in our market. However, according to the Japanese automaker’s local arm, a key highlight of the update is a “more comprehensively equipped” Active edition — the latter serving as the opening gambit to the lineup. So, let’s start with what’s new on this model… With the update, the Mazda2 Active has gained a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Mazda’s MZD Connect setup, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone screen mirroring. Electrically folding wing mirrors are also present. Active spec further features fresh two-tone 15-inch steel wheels and subtle yellow exterior accents, front and rear. The mid-spec, Dynamic derivative rolls on 15-inch Silver Metallic alloy wheels. Stepping insi...

We have rounded up the five best-selling compact SUVs priced from under R300k in SA in March 2026. See the list below… In a budget-conscious market such as South Africa, the sub-R300k segment is booming, especially vehicles falling into the value-oriented crossover/SUV category. So, if you are in the market for a vehicle of this ilk and wondering which was the most popular in March 2026, we’ve taken a closer look at the latest naamsa sales stats to bring you the five best-selling compact SUVs priced from under R300 000 in SA in the third month of the year. 5. Nissan Magnite – 953 units Image: Nissan The fifth best-selling compact SUV in SA in March 2026 comes in the shape of the Nissan Magnite, which is priced from R252 200. The Magnite, which scored an upgraded safety rating in 2025, is available with the choice of two powertrain options: a 53 kW/96 N.m 1.0-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol and a 74 kW/160 N.m turbo-triple of similar capacity. The former unit can...

Rolls-Royce has whipped the wraps off the Project Nightingale, the first model in the British luxury marque’s new Coachbuild Collection. Image: Rolls-Royce Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Project Nightingale, the first model developed through the British luxury automaker’s new Coachbuild Collection programme. Derived from Le Rossignol, this Rolls-Royce’s name originates from co-founder Sir Henry Royce’s French Riviera estate, translating to “the nightingale”. These bespoke cars are inspired by the Art Deco-styled ‘EX’ (experimental) Rolls-Royce models from the 1920s, the 16EX and 17EX. The Project Nightingale takes the form of a two-door, two-seater convertible. At 5 760 mm long, it is approximately the same length as the Phantom . Running the full length of the car, from the vertical headlamps to the twin diagonal taillamp arrays, the polished bands serve as a statement piece. Referencing the red badges fitted to the 1920s EX Rolls-Royces, subtle red flakes are infused into the Côte...

To celebrate the upcoming new Hilux, Toyota South Africa has announced it’s aiming to make history with a series of Guinness World Records attempts at NAMPO 2026. Image: Toyota South Africa Toyota South Africa has its sights set on making history through multiple Guinness World Records attempts at NAMPO 2026, which takes place on 13 May in Bothaville … and the vehicle with which the Japanese automaker’s local arm is aiming to do it is none other than the Hilux. Indeed, in celebration of the upcoming new Hilux , which is among the array of bakkies confirmed for SA in 2026 , thousands of Hilux bakkies, spanning several generations, are expected to participate in breaking four Guinness World Records. It is worth noting that, to participate, the vehicle must be roadworthy. “Hilux owners of all generations and derivatives are invited to participate and are encouraged to bring their bakkies in every body shape, including Single Cabs, Xtra Cabs and Double Cabs. Mileage is no barrier; all...

The Geely E2 has launched in South Africa, with the Chinese automaker’s new all-electric compact hatchback becoming the most affordable EV in SA. See pricing and specs below… Image: Geely Geely has introduced the E2 all-electric compact hatchback to South Africa, with the latest member in the Chinese automaker’s local model portfolio now positioned as the most affordable EV in SA – a title previously held by the BYD Dolphin Surf , which is priced from R341 900. The E2 is available with the choice of two trim grades: Aspire and Apex. Both models employ a single electric motor, which produces 85 kW and 150 N.m of torque. Power is delivered to the road via the rear wheels. The e-motor is coupled with a 39.4 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, which can receive up to 70 kW at a DC fast-charging facility. According to the brand, the LFP unit provides an operating range of up to 325 km (WLTP) when fully charged. The E2 has a claimed energy consumption of 15.2 kWh/100 km. Geel...