Starting from R549 000, the new derivative arrives just as the A1 enters its final production phase, ensuring the model remains a highly competitive entry point into the Audi brand.

Buyers can now choose from three distinct trim levels:

• Advanced (R530,900): The foundation of the range. It focuses on digital essentials, featuring the Audi virtual cockpit, smartphone interface, Audi sound system, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
• S line (R549,000): The new mid-tier hero. It adds a dynamic edge with sport seats, full LED headlights with “rear lights Plus,” an auto-dimming mirror, and a unique 17-inch wheel design exclusive to this trim.
• Black Edition (R593,390): The range-topper. This trim emphasizes a “stealth” aesthetic with the Black Styling Package Plus, alongside added convenience features like park assist.

According to Markus Schuster, Head of Audi South Africa, the introduction of the S line is a direct response to local market demand for high-specification compact cars at a more accessible price point.

Every model in the range – including the new S line – is sold with a 5-year/100,000 km Audi Freeway Plan. This comprehensive service and maintenance plan is standard, covering all routine servicing and wear-and-tear items, which significantly reduces the total cost of ownership for the first five years.

The central highlight of the update is the introduction of BMW Operating System X and the BMW Panoramic iDrive. Making its luxury segment debut, the system replaces traditional instrument clusters with a display that spans the full width of the windscreen, projecting key data directly into the driver’s field of vision.

This is paired with a new BMW Passenger Screen, a 14.6-inch dedicated display that allows front-seat passengers to manage entertainment and navigation independently.

Rear-seat passengers continue to have access to the 31.3-inch 8K BMW Theatre Screen, which has been upgraded to support full-surface touch operation and integrated video conferencing via a new built-in camera.

The fully electric BMW i7 undergoes a significant technical transformation with the adoption of Gen6 cylindrical battery cells. This new battery architecture, featuring a usable energy content of 112.5 kWh, increases the WLTP driving range to over 720 km.

Charging performance has also been optimised. Peak DC fast-charging capacity has risen from 195 kW to 250 kW, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in approximately 28 minutes. Under maximum charging rates, the i7 50 xDrive can now add up to 235 km of range in just 10 minutes of charging.

Powertrain Lineup and Local Specifications

BMW continues by offering a diverse range of drive systems, including 48V mild-hybrid combustion engines and high-performance plug-in hybrids.

Standard equipment for the South African market has been bolstered to include the M Sport package, 21-inch wheels with run-flat technology (with 22-inch items available for the first time), and the Bowers & Wilkins sound system with Dolby Atmos support.

The exterior of the new 7 adopts a monolithic design language defined by minimalist surfaces and a vertical front fascia.

The new Iconic Glow kidney grille is flanked by crystal headlights that utilise Swarovski elements for a distinct lighting signature. For the first time, BMW Individual is offering Dual-Finish paintwork, a two-tone concept where the lower body features a matte finish and the upper section is hand-applied metallic – a process that takes over 75 hours to complete.

The new BMW 7 Series is produced on a single line at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. While the global market launch is set for July 2026, the new flagship is expected to arrive in South Africa during the fourth quarter of 2026. Final pricing and local derivative confirmation will be released closer to the launch date.

With global order books for the mid-size SUV already exceeding internal forecasts, Volvo has increased its 2026 production targets and will keep the Torslanda facility operational for an additional week over the European summer to meet the surge in demand.

Performance and Class-Leading Range

The EX60 serves as the all-electric successor to the popular XC60 and introduces the new SPA3 (Scalable Product Architecture 3) platform. This architecture allows the flagship P12 AWD variant to achieve a class-leading range of up to 810 km (WLTP) on a single charge, facilitated by a 117 kWh battery.

The lineup also includes the P10 AWD with a 660 km range and the entry-level P6 RWD, which offers 620 km. In terms of raw performance, the top-tier P12 AWD produces 500 kW and 790 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 3.9 seconds – making it the most powerful production car in Volvo’s history.

Next-Generation Charging and Architecture

A big highlight of the EX60 is its 800-volt electrical system, which is a first for the brand.

This allows for ultra-fast DC charging speeds of up to 400 kW, enabling the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 16 to 18 minutes. Under optimal conditions, the SUV can add 340 km of range in just 10 minutes.

The vehicle also makes use of megacasting technology, a process that replaces hundreds of individual parts with a single high-precision aluminum casting to reduce weight and improve structural rigidity, further contributing to its efficiency and handling dynamics.

The start of production follows a SEK 10 billion (approximately R24 billion) investment into the Torslanda plant. The upgrades include a new battery assembly facility, a fully refurbished paint shop, and the integration of megacasting equipment.

South African Availability

Volvo South Africa has confirmed that the EX60 is scheduled to arrive in the local market during the third quarter of 2026.

Positioned specifically for entrepreneurs and fleet operators, the T8 Comfort aims to provide a balance of multi-passenger capacity and rugged utility while maintaining a low total cost of ownership.

Performance and Verified Efficiency

The T8 Comfort is powered by a 2.0-litre common-rail turbo-diesel engine equipped with an Electric Variable Geometry Turbocharger (EVGT). The powerplant produces 104 kW at 3 600 rpm and 320 Nm of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

In recent internal testing conducted at the Gerotek facility outside Pretoria, the T8 demonstrated high levels of fuel efficiency. During an economy run on the oval track, the T8 achieved a consumption figure of 6.1 L/100 km while maintaining a steady speed of 115 km/h. With an average combined fuel consumption of 6.5 L/100 km and a 76-litre tank, the bakkie offers an estimated driving range of approximately 1,100 km.

Chassis and Load Capability

The T8 features a double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs to manage body roll and a leaf-spring rear suspension for durability under load. The vehicle offers a 900 kg payload and a braked towing capacity of 2000 kg. The load box itself is double-skinned and corrosion-resistant, measuring 1520 mm by 1520 mm, and is equipped with four tie-down hooks for securing cargo.

Safety and Standard Specification

Active safety features consist of Traction Control (TCS), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hill-start Hold Control (HHC). The braking system uses discs on both the front and rear axles, supported by a 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA).

Pricing and Warranty

The T8 2.0L CTi Comfort is available through JAC Motors’ network of over 70 dealers across Southern Africa. The R349 900 retail price includes a 5-year/100,000 km warranty and 24-hour roadside assistance.

The latest fuel price hikes are hitting South Africans where it hurts most, right in the pocket. For many of us, watching the digits fly by at the petrol station has become a source of genuine monthly dread. While we can’t do much about global oil prices or the exchange rate of the rand, we don’t have to just sit back and take it.

It’s about shifting your mindset from feeling stuck to finding the gaps where you can save.

Understanding the Ripple Effect

It’s easy to think of fuel as just the cost of getting from point A to point B, but it’s more than that. Because we import most of our fuel, the price is at the mercy of global markets. When the price at the pump goes up, everything else follows, from the taxi fare to the price of a loaf of bread on the shelf.

“Fuel price increases can feel overwhelming, especially when they happen frequently,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communications at WesBank. “But understanding what’s driving those changes helps shift your focus to what you can actually control”.

Read next: Proven Ways to Cut Your Fuel Costs and Boost Efficiency

Small Habits, Big Savings

You don’t need to trade your car in for a bicycle or stop visiting family to see a difference. Real savings usually come from the small, boring habits that we often overlook.

Driving a bit more smoothly, not slamming on the accelerator, making sure your tyres are pumped up correctly, and combining three errands into one trip can significantly cut down how much petrol you burn.

“These are not complicated changes,” Lebogang explains. “But when you apply them consistently, they can have a real impact on how much you spend each month”.

Treat Fuel Like a Bill, Not an Afterthought

For a long time, many of us treated petrol as an unpredictable “extra” expense. Those days are over. To keep your head above water, you need to plan your fuel spend just like you’d plan your bond, rent or your groceries.

Start by looking at how many kilometres you drive in a month and what your car’s fuel consumption looks like. Once you have that number, you can build a budget that reflects reality.

“Once you start tracking your fuel usage, you begin to see patterns,” says Lebogang. “That awareness makes it easier to adjust your behaviour early, instead of being surprised at the end of the month”. It also forces you to ask: “Do I really need to take the car for this trip?”.

Rethinking the Daily Commute

It’s worth looking at your routine with fresh eyes. Can you carpool with a colleague? Can you leave thirty minutes earlier to avoid the stop-and-go crawl of peak traffic?

“It is not just about what a car costs to buy,” Gaoaketse says. “It is about what it costs to run every single month, especially in a high fuel price environment”. Whether it’s changing how you drive or eventually looking for a more fuel-efficient model, thinking long-term is what will save you the most.

Read next: Your Daily Commute – Are You Paying More in Time or Money?

The Bottom Line

The price at the pump is going to keep changing, that’s just the world we live in. But while you can’t control the global economy, you can control your own habits.

As Lebogang puts it: “You may not be able to control the price at the pump, but you can control how efficiently you use your fuel and how you plan around it”. In an expensive world, those small, intentional choices are what keep you moving forward.

Need a hand staying on top of your vehicle’s health? You can find more advice and tools to manage your car and finances over at WesBank’s website.

Limited Edition M2 Coupé RR Edition

The BMW M2 Coupé RR Edition is mechanically consistent with the standard M2, here you’ll find the 353 kW six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. However, its visual and aerodynamic profile is significantly enhanced. Finished in Black Sapphire Metallic, the RR Edition features M Performance suspension that lowers the vehicle by 20mm and rides on Jet Black M Performance wheels – 20-inch at the front and 21-inch at the rear.

Aerodynamic upgrades include black front and rear splitters with red inserts, a black roof spoiler, and a flow-through boot spoiler accented with a red stripe.

A custom-developed Akrapovič exhaust system provides a unique sound. Inside, the cabin receives a bespoke treatment with black seats featuring red bolsters and contrast stitching, a steering wheel with a red 12 o’clock marker, and a sunroof—a feature exclusive to this edition.

Only 10 units will be produced: five equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox and five with the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission.

The BMW Motorrad M2 Editions

On the two-wheeled side, the BMW S 1000 RR M2 Edition and the flagship M 1000 RR M2 Edition carry the same aesthetic theme. Both motorcycles are finished in Black Storm Metallic and feature striking red accents.

The S 1000 RR M2 Edition, which is South Africa’s top-selling sports motorcycle, gains red highlights on the front fairing and passenger seat cover, alongside a tinted windscreen and red-accented Design Option Wheels.

The more track-focused M 1000 RR M2 Edition features red accents on its M carbon wheel rims, fuel tank, and front fairings, while its distinctive M winglets bear the RR insignia in red. Both bikes come equipped with Akrapovič exhaust systems and remain technically identical to their standard counterparts.

Local Pricing and Availability

While the motorcycles are available for immediate purchase, the M2 Coupé RR Edition is scheduled to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Building on the established popularity of the previous model, this refresh introduces sharper design language, upgraded in-car technology, and a more mature presence on the road.

Ford has structured the new Territory lineup into three distinct grades.

The entry-level Ambiente model starts the range at R534 900. Moving up the ladder, the mid-tier Trend model is positioned at R584 900. At the pinnacle of the lineup sits the Titanium variant, priced at R643 900.

A New Look And Feel

The visual update is immediately apparent, with Ford adopting a more confident and mature design language for the 2026 model. The front end has undergone a significant transformation, featuring a chiseled hood and a redesigned grille that emphasises the vehicle’s width for a more muscular, imposing silhouette.

The signature L-shaped laser headlights now feature ultra-compact LED lens modules, which not only improve night-time visibility but also provide a modern, technical aesthetic.

These exterior changes are complemented by two fresh paint options, Cactus Grey and Oasis Green.

Tech-Focused Cabin

Inside, the dashboard is now dominated by a redesigned dual 12.3-inch infotainment display that brings the Territory’s user interface up to date with modern expectations.

Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard with the inclusion of Arkamys 3D audio software. Ford has also introduced app connectivity for this model, allowing owners to remotely lock, unlock, and monitor their vehicle status directly from their smartphone.

Performance And Practicality

Under the bonnet, Ford has retained the proven 1.8-litre turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine. It produces 138 kW of power and 318 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that utilises a rotary e-shifter on the centre console.

Performance Hardware and Bespoke Styling

The TWENTY Edition distinguishes itself with a mechanical and aesthetic package that pulls heavily from the Range Rover Sport SV. The cabin is anchored by lightweight, motorsport-inspired Ebony Windsor performance seats, similar to our recent Defender 110, which offer improved ergonomics for high-speed cornering.

All of these are complemented by forged carbon veneers and a black suedecloth headlining to create a darkened, driver-focused atmosphere. On the exterior, the edition pays homage to the original “Range Stormer” concept with an ultra-metallic Sanguinello Orange paint option – a signature colour that has appeared on every generation of the Sport.

The stealthy silhouette is rounded out by 23-inch Gloss Sparkle Silver wheels and bespoke “TWENTY” etching on the treadplates and center console.

Powertrains: V8 Might and Hybrid Efficiency

Reflecting the model’s history of engine innovation, the TWENTY Edition offers two distinct flagship powertrains.

When it comes to performance, the 4.4-litre Twin Turbo V8 mild hybrid produces a formidable 397kW. Conversely, the P550e Plug-in Electric Hybrid represents the brand’s shift toward electrification, pairing a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a 105kW electric motor and a 38.2kWh battery.

This hybrid setup produces a combined 405kW and offers a pure-electric range of up to 115km, effectively allowing for zero-emission urban commuting without sacrificing the its performance pedigree.

Market Availability

Despite the global excitement surrounding this celebration of Range Rover’s best-selling performance model, the Range Rover Sport TWENTY Edition is not currently confirmed for the South African market.

The Gqeberha-based manufacturer recorded a massive 21% year-on-year increase in total production volumes, rolling over 27 400 D-MAX bakkies and 3800 trucks off the assembly line.

A Decade of Dominance in Commercial Logistics

This financial year marks the 13th consecutive year that Isuzu has held the title of South Africa’s number-one brand in both the medium- and heavy-commercial vehicle segments.

According to Dominic Rimmer, Executive Vice President for Manufacturing and Product Engineering, the surge was the result of a deliberate, multi-year strategy rather than an accidental spike in orders. By aligning production cycles more closely with actual market needs across Africa, IMSAf was able to scale its operations responsibly.

This execution ensured that the increased assembly speed did not impact the build quality or the “workhorse” durability for which the D-MAX and Isuzu Truck ranges are known. It is a measured response to a growing market that demands vehicles capable of supporting essential economic activity in challenging environments.

Positioned as a premium entry-level electric vehicle (EV), the E2 is a compact five-door hatchback designed to solve the affordability gap that has historically kept South African motorists tied to internal combustion engines. Entering the market with a starting price under R340 000.

Performance and the 11-in-1 Drive System

Mechanically, the E2 is built on a dedicated electric architecture that utilises an integrated 11-in-1 electric drive system. This setup combines the motor, gearbox, and control systems into a single, high-efficiency unit to maximise responsiveness. The rear-wheel-drive configuration produces 85 kW of power and 150 Nm of torque, allowing for a 0–50 km/h sprint in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 130 km/h.

Range, Charging, and Battery Tech

The E2 uses a 39.4 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, a chemistry favoured for its longevity and safety. On the WLTP cycle, the hatchback offers a driving range of up to 325 km, which is more than sufficient for the average South African daily commute.

Efficiency is rated at 15.2 kWh/100 km, and the vehicle supports DC fast charging up to 70 kW, enabling a 30% to 80% charge in approximately 25 minutes.

A standout technical inclusion is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing the car to act as a mobile power bank to run external appliances.

Interior Tech and Practicality

Despite its compact 4135 mm length, the dedicated EV platform allows for a flat cabin floor and a generous 2650 mm wheelbase, optimising legroom for both front and rear passengers.

The digital-first cabin is centered around a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen running Geely’s Flyme Auto Smart System, complemented by an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and full smartphone integration.

Practicality is a major focus, with 375 litres of boot space that expands to 1,320 liters with the seats down, further supplemented by a 70-litrd front trunk (frunk) for charging cables and smaller items.

Model Range and Safety

Geely is offering the E2 in two distinct grades. The entry-level Aspire focuses on essential mobility with 15-inch wheels and fabric seats, while the range-topping Apex adds a 360-degree panoramic camera with a “transparent chassis” view, vegan leather upholstery, and wireless charging.

The Apex also upgrades the safety suite with a full Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning.

Pricing and Local Impact

The Geely E2 is priced at R339,900 for the Aspire and R389,900 for the Apex. These figures include a 4-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and a substantial 8-year/200,000 km battery warranty. To further lower the barrier to entry, all models include a wall box home charger.

The technical foundation of the S/C is the celebrated 4.0-litre naturally aspirated boxer engine. Porsche has updated the cylinder heads and utilised the aggressive camshafts from the 911 GT3 RS to ensure the engine remains responsive at the top of its 9000-rpm limit. Output remains a stout 375 kW and 450 Nm of torque.

In a move that clarifies its position as a “driver’s car,” the GT3 S/C is available exclusively with a short-ratio six-speed manual transmission. This setup allows the S/C to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 313 km/h. By omitting the PDK (dual-clutch) option, Porsche is clearly prioritising mechanical engagement over lap-time optimisation.

Engineering the Lightweight Cabriolet

The primary engineering challenge of an open-top GT car is weight management. Despite the addition of the hydraulic roof motors, Porsche has kept the S/C’s weight down to just 1497 kg.

This aggressive weight saving is achieved through a comprehensive use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the bonnet, wings, doors, anti-roll bars, and rear shear plate. The unsprung mass is further reduced by forged magnesium centre-lock wheels, while the braking system utilises Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) as standard to shave off another 20 kg. Even the electrical system is optimised with a lightweight 40 Ah lithium-ion battery, ensuring the S/C remains agile despite its convertible hardware.

Visually, the S/C is a hybrid of the 911’s most iconic silhouettes. It borrows the distinctive wings and “flyline” of the 911 S/T but adds a black-finished windscreen frame that gives it a lower, sleeker profile when the roof is down. Unlike the manual “fiddly” roof of the 2019 Speedster, the S/C’s magnesium-ribbed top operates fully automatically in 12 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h.

The interior is a focused, two-seater cockpit. It features lightweight door panels with carbon pull handles, lightweight carpets, and a rotary ignition switch to the left of the steering wheel. For those focused on the track, the “Track Screen” mode strips the digital displays down to the bare essentials: tire pressure, oil temp, and a centred 9,000-rpm tachometer.

For buyers looking to move away from the “stealth” look, Porsche is offering the Street Style Package. This includes Pyro Red decorative graphics, Victory Gold brake calipers, and an intricate four-tone braided leather interior. Owners can even spec a matching 10 kg leather-trimmed storage box for the rear cabin, as the S/C dispenses with rear seats entirely to save weight.

South African Pricing

The 911 GT3 S/C is officially available for order in the South African market from R6,138,000

The i-DM System

The “i-DM” in the name stands for intelligent Dual Mode, Jetour’s proprietary hybrid architecture. Unlike traditional hybrids that only use electric power for low-speed crawling, this system is a performance-oriented PHEV. The powertrain delivers a combined output of 265 kW, providing the kind of immediate torque and acceleration typically associated with battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), but with a significant safety net.

For the South African driver, the headline figure is the range. Jetour claims a total combined driving range of over 1200 km. This allows for zero-emission electric commuting during the week, while maintaining the fuel-powered confidence required for long-distance holiday travels where charging infrastructure might be scarce.

Charging and Efficiency Metrics

The T-Series i-DM is engineered to bridge the gap between internal combustion and full electrification with a focus on high-speed replenishment. The system supports DC rapid charging capable of a 30% to 80% state-of-charge in under 30 minutes, drastically reducing the downtime usually associated with electrified platforms.

When the battery and petrol engine work in tandem, Jetour claims fuel consumption figures as low as 1.1L/100 km, while the pure electric mode allows the vehicle to operate as a zero-emission BEV for daily urban school runs and office commutes.

Rugged Design Meets a “Travel+” Cabin

Visually, the i-DM models retain the bold, “boxy” aesthetic that made the petrol T-series a sales success. It’s a silhouette that leans into the current global trend for rugged, adventure-ready SUVs, featuring distinctive signature lighting and a panoramic glass sunroof.

Inside, the cabin is a tech-heavy environment dominated by a dual-screen display setup. The “Travel+” philosophy which the brand describes as a strategy to connect products with lifestyle is evident in the interior appointments. Expect wireless charging, ambient lighting, and a high-end audio system as standard, all integrated via a high-speed infotainment processor that ensures seamless smartphone connectivity.

Market Positioning and Pricing

The T-Series i-DM is now available at over 55 dealerships nationwide, with the T1 i-DM priced from R689,900 and the T2 i-DM starting at R779,900.