Not only is the day all about out-in-the-sun fun, music and food, it also affords customers the chance to interact with the people behind the brand and experience some of the latest products, some that are yet to come and even see Jetour’s full customization powers in play. It really is a unique experience for customers.

While the festival was our main reason for the invitation, Jetour has some cheeky plans up their sleeve. I was part of the media and content creators cohort joining them from Johannesburg.

So they flew us in on the early hours to Durban, where we made our way to Zimbali for all the check-in formalities. Once all of that was handled, we were given the keys to the brand new Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus models to experience. For the duration of the day, I grabbed my picnic basket, the route card, my driving partner Gugu and we settled in a Dashing.  

At first look new Dashing doesn’t look like much has changed, until you get to the rear and notice the imposing quad exhaust pipe setup. And unlike the X70 Plus of yesteryear, the pipes on this refreshed Dashing have clear exhaust pipes visible, which is a welcomed affair.

Little can be noted from a noise perspective. Fortunately for us Jetour had their product specialist on hand, who graciously gave us a walk-around of the vehicle and pointed out a few other updates to the exterior.

In front, you now get distinctive red styling accents on the front nose and flanks and it features parking sensors in front too that enable Level 2 ADAS, Intelligent High and Low beams, a 540-degree panoramic view camera system.

There’s a host of new paint colour choices for the Dashing to choose from such as Onyx Black, Slate Grey, Forest Green, Ash Grey, Crimson Red and Glacier White.

When you step inside, the Dashing now features an eight-speaker Sony audio system, privacy glass, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic glass sunroof and heated and ventilated seats on the Prime version we experienced.

The X70 Plus also receives noticeable improvements including, a redesigned front grille with exterior accents in brushed aluminium, new 19-inch alloy wheels, heated and ventilated front seats (on the Prime version), dual-zone climate control and engine start/stop technologies. And the same advanced safety enhancements as the new Dashing.

Now that we’ve got all the good stuff out of the way, Jetour planned for us to explore a bit of Durban coastal living before we make our way to the main event. Once we settled into our vehicles, we made our way to The Pearls Mall in Umhlanga for sightseeing (fellow content creators appreciated this), followed by a Coffee stop at Plato.

We skipped the coffee stop part as we wanted to capture content with the vehicles, and then we made our way to the event venue, The Manor House. The long stretch from Umhlanga to the event venue allowed us to get a proper feel of the updated 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that delivers 125kW and 270Nm of torque.

According to Jetour, the new engine is engineered to be far more responsive, result in stronger performance, improved efficiency and a more refined driving experience. During our time the drive was certainly more refined, and a tad responsive. But some of the nuances when parking or maneuvering at incredibly low speeds that came through in the previous iteration were still there. We’ll have to see how it does when we have it for longer.

The left turn out of all of this was the good news of the new product introductions and the fact that pricing for each model is about R10 000 cheaper than the pre-improvement versions.

Once we reached the event venue we submerged ourselves in the Jetour experience. Jetour took the opportunity to introduce the very same models we were sampling today to their customers and dealers. This was followed up by a reveal of a few custom models that Jetour has spent some considerable time customizing. On display and at work was the two i-DM models, the T1 and T2 PHEVs.

The T1 PHEV caught my attention as it was powering a coffee machine that was on service for the day. This perfectly showcased the V2L technology of the vehicle and what it can do.

The music was incredible, the hospitality for the books and food was pure festival goodness.

The Jetour Dashing is priced from R429 900.

The Jetour X70Plus is priced from R444 900

Getting that SMS saying your vehicle finance has been approved is a massive relief. For a moment, the stress evaporates, and you can practically smell that new-car scent. But as any seasoned driver will tell you, getting the green light from the bank is actually where the real work begins.

Approval doesn’t mean a deal is right for your wallet; it just means you passed the bank’s minimum test. In today’s tough economic climate, with the cost of living putting the squeeze on household budgets, it is incredibly easy to overcommit.

Too many South Africans fall into the trap of looking only at the monthly instalment. It’s a dangerous way to shop, because the total cost of that contract often tells a completely different, and much more expensive, story.

“For many South African’s purchasing a car is one of the most important financial commitments they will make. It’s therefore important that you go in fully aware of what you are committing to. From the monthly instalment to insurance and all points in between,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank.

Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you can answer these five important questions.

1. Is the interest rate fixed or variable?

This choice will determine how exposed your repayments are to future interest rate changes. A fixed rate stays the same for the whole loan term, meaning your budget is predictable. A variable rate moves up and down with the prime lending rate. If rates fall, your pocket gets some relief; if they rise, your monthly repayments get more expensive. Neither option is automatically better…

2. Does this deal include a balloon payment, and do I have a plan to settle it?

A balloon payment can reduce your monthly instalment by deferring a portion of the vehicle’s cost to the end of the agreement. While this can improve affordability in the short term, buyers need a clear plan for settling the amount when it becomes due. However, when the contract ends, that massive lump sum is suddenly due all at once. If you don’t have the cash sitting in the bank to pay it off, you’ll be forced to refinance it. That means taking out a whole new loan, with new interest, for a car that is already five or six years old.

3. What is the total repayment amount over the full loan term?

Loan terms usually stretch between 60 and 72 months. A longer loan term may reduce your monthly instalment, but it can significantly increase the total amount of interest paid over the life of the agreement. That’s why it’s important to compare the total repayment amount, not just the monthly figure. Even a relatively small reduction in your monthly instalment can result in thousands of rand in additional interest over the life of the agreement.

4. What are the early settlement terms?

Life changes fast. You might win the lottery, get a major promotion, or need to sell the car unexpectedly. If you want to pay off your loan early, you need to know what it will cost you. Some agreements carry specific fees or notice periods for early settlement. On the flip side, you also need to know the consequences of falling behind. Missing a payment does more than just trigger penalty fees; it can damage your credit record and make it harder to access credit in future.

5. Have I budgeted for insurance, fuel, and running costs?

This is where many first-time buyers get caught out. The car payment is just one piece of the puzzle.

“Too often, consumers focus on whether they can afford the monthly repayment rather than whether they can afford the vehicle,” says Gaoaketse. “The instalment is one line item. Insurance, fuel, maintenance, and tyres are not optional extras, they are part of the true cost of ownership, and they need to feature in your budget from day one.”

Conclusion

Don’t let the excitement of a new ride cloud your financial judgment. If you are sitting with a vehicle finance agreement in front of you, take a breath, step back, and make sure you have the answers to these five critical questions.

The best vehicle finance agreement is not the one with the lowest monthly instalment, but the one you fully understand before signing. Asking these questions upfront can help ensure your next vehicle fits both your lifestyle and your long-term budget.

Visit www.wesbank.co.za to learn more about vehicle finance solutions and make a more informed purchasing decision.

The primary engineering challenge in building for electric trucks lies in balancing structural durability with weight. Serco utilised specialised lightweight construction techniques to ensure that the added weight of the truck bodies does not significantly detract from the vehicle’s usable payload or its operating range.

By maximising efficiency through materials and design, these builds help fleet operators mitigate “range anxiety” while maintaining the heavy-duty performance required for local logistics and specialized transport operations.

SANY Trucks currently offers one of South Africa’s most comprehensive lineups of electric heavy-duty trucks. According to Avinash Singh, Director of Sales and Marketing for EVs at SANY Trucks, Serco was selected following a rigorous evaluation process to ensure the body quality matched the high-tech nature of the chassis.

The local EV truck market is currently seeing a surge in interest as charging infrastructure improves and fleet owners begin to recognize the total cost of ownership (TCO) benefits associated with electric drivetrains compared to traditional diesel equivalents.

The completed vehicles are equipped with a suite of modern accessories designed to improve day-to-day operational efficiency. These include LED interior strip lighting for better visibility during loading and rear doors fitted with Delta locking handles for enhanced security and ergonomics.

Serco’s EV-focused catalog also features fast-opening curtain mechanisms for tautliners and eco-friendly internal wear strips for van bodies. These components are selected to reduce physical effort for operators and extend the life of the vehicle body while lowering its overall environmental impact.

To support the adoption of these new technologies, Serco has emphasized its national after-sales network, with dedicated facilities in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Gqeberha. This infrastructure is intended to reduce downtime for fleet operators transitioning to electric mobility, providing consistent support throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle. .

To truly put a car through its paces, you can’t just drive it around a leafy suburb for a week. You need to live with it, push it, and take it on an adventure. That’s exactly what we did, covering significant mileage across provinces to see if Volvo’s new flagship truly makes sense for the South African context. All with one purpose in mind; to find South Africa’s fastest charging station.

My time with the ES90 reaffirmed why Volvo currently leads the conversation in modern luxury. Electrified at that. It began the moment I saw it in the metal, resting in its striking Mulberry Red paint. If the deep, wine-hued red is too bold for your taste, Volvo offers a sophisticated spectrum including Aurora Silver, Crystal White (with a stunning pearlescent effect), Onyx Black, Vapour Grey, Denim Blue, or the earthier Sand Dune.

All colours work great on the Volvo ES90.

It doesn’t shout for attention; it commands it through sheer restraint. The exterior is a five-meter-long titanic of grace, featuring a body-coloured shield in place of a traditional grille to optimise aerodynamics.

The stars of the show are the HD Pixel LED headlights, retaining the “Thor’s Hammer” signature but with 20 000 pixel modules that wink at you upon approach. Our test unit stood tall on massive 21-inch 5-spoke Aero alloys, where glossy black inserts contrast perfectly against the red bodywork.

But the real emotional connection hit when I pulled the flush door handle and stepped inside. There’s that unmistakable “new Volvo” scent – a mix of high-end sustainable materials and fresh tech. Catching that first whiff of the interior and feeling the cool, tactile surfaces reminded me that luxury is best applied by perfect execution of a simple idea. Nothing flashy or loud here.

Back to the point. The cabin is less of a car interior and more of a rolling Zen studio. At least in my world. The level of craftsmanship is immediately evident in the wood finishes. Here you get the contemporary natural Birch wood inlays that feel incredible to the touch.

The driver is treated to a 9-inch instrumental display behind the steering wheel, supplemented by a massive 13.2-inch Head-Up Display. One would think the instrumental display is too small for its intended purposes, but that is not the case. It fits the vehicle perfectly and displays all the necessary information the driver needs.

You even get the option to change its layout to suit your needs and information you prefer. As part of the most recent updates to Volvo’s UI, you can have your navigation (regardless on whether its via Waze, Apple Maps or Google Maps) projected on this very same instrumental display. The Heads-Up Display is able to project the directions too.

For the audiophiles, the 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity system is a masterpiece, featuring speakers built directly into the headrests to create an immersive 1610-watt soundstage. It even features an Abbey Road mode to help you setup the sound to your preference and musical taste.

Look up, and you’ll find the electrochromatic panoramic roof. In a departure from tradition, there is no physical blind; instead, a simple tap on the screen tints the glass electronically to keep the sun away. When it comes to practicality, the fastback design allows for a massive boot opening with 446 litres of space, while the 27-litre “frunk” up front is the perfect home for your charging cables or anything else you don’t have space for in your boot.

I jokingly share with Gift, our media manager, on a regular that one could get away with hiding things you don’t want people to see in there.

Rear passengers aren’t treated as an afterthought. Step through the power-release, soft-close doors and you’ll find a genuine sanctuary. The rear seats feature an electric recline function, and while the battery placement means under-thigh support is slightly less than a traditional petrol sedan, the clever seat contouring means you honestly don’t feel it once you’re settled in. It’s more plush and comfortable than ever.

The centrepiece back here is the Rear Lounge Armrest. Finished in gorgeous natural wood, it features cupholders that lift out with a damped, premium action and a dedicated spot for your phone. It’s the perfect environment for a chauffeured run through Sandton or a quick airport drop-off.

On the road, the first thing you notice – or rather, the first thing you don’t – is noise. It is deathly quiet. Between the laminated glass and extensive insulation, it feels like you’re driving a Swedish S-Class. As much as I hate comparisons, this is the best way to put it.

Our Ultra trim features adaptive air suspension, which provides a twofold experience. It has that classic flagship “waft,” gliding over rolling speed humps like a cloud. However, on those jittery, corrugated surfaces we often see here in SA, the 21-inch wheels do let a hint of vibration through, keeping the ride “honest” without ever feeling harsh. It’s not a Volvo issue, but more about the state of our roads.

The rear-wheel-drive setup delivers 245 kW, propelling the ES90 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds. The power delivery is rather polite. A surge of torque rather than a kick. My favourite touch? The accelerator pedal gives you a subtle haptic “nudge” to let you know you’re hitting the speed limit, rather than annoying you with constant beeps. The Chinese need to take notes.

When it comes to charging, the 800V architecture is the real hero here. In a country where range anxiety is the first exhaustive topic at every dinner table, the ES90’s 755 km (WLTP) claim is a game-changer. In our real-world testing while cruising at 120 km/h we found a realistic range of over 600 km is easily achievable. Stopping at a Zero Carbon Charge station like the one in Wolmaransstad, we went from 10% to 80% in about 22 minutes. That’s barely enough time to grab a coffee and a snack before you’re ready for another 500+ km.

The ES90 enters a ring with established heavy hitters, but the contrast is unmistakable. The BMW i5 eDrive40 remains the athlete of the group, offering sharper handling but trailing the Volvo significantly on range.

The Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ is a tech-fest that leans heavily into screens, yet its “pebble-like” design can feel polarising against the Volvo’s classic, strong lines. Even the Audi Q8 e-tron 55, with its legendary build quality, struggles to match the Volvo’s sheer distance and accessible starting price. Against these, the ES90 stands as the champion of comfort and range confidence. It’s up to Volvo now to position and market this product properly.

The 2026 Volvo ES90 is the ultimate quiet achiever. It proves that luxury in the electric age doesn’t have to be about aggressive styling or gimmicky tech. It’s a sophisticated, long-range cruiser perfectly suited for those who want to travel in total silence. If you want a car that makes the world slow down while you’re moving fast, this Mulberry Red sanctuary is the one to beat.

At a starting price of R1,590,000 for the Core, and R1,795,000 for this Ultra, Volvo has found a sweet spot. Volvo is including a GridCars wallbox, installation, and two years of free public charging with each purchase.

Configure and purchase yours here.

The crunch of a slowing economy is hitting South African doorsteps hard. When household budgets are stretched to the breaking point, it’s easy to panic and make a choice that feels like a quick fix, like skipping a car payment to cover another bill. But that one missed payment can set off a chain reaction that ends with a tow truck in your driveway.

For most of us, a car isn’t just a way to get from A to B; it’s a lifeline to work, a way to get the kids to school, and a hard-earned badge of independence. The good news? The bank actually wants you to keep your keys.

“We understand the true value of a vehicle and how it can represent so much more than a mode of transport to so many people, it is a symbol of their success and a means to mobility freedom to come and go as you please. As such, having one’s car repossessed is a traumatic experience,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank.

The Power of Picking Up the Phone

If you’re struggling to make ends meet, the worst thing you can do is go quiet. While it’s tempting to hide, honesty is your best defense. Finance houses view repossession as the absolute last resort, it’s a lose-lose situation for everyone involved.

According to Gaoaketse, the door is always open for a conversation. “Customers who can’t meet their vehicle repayment obligations due to financial challenges are encouraged to contact the bank as soon as possible to discuss potential alternative payment arrangements. Defaults on payments will always result in a consultation between the bank and the customer,” he explains.

Restructuring your debt or finding a new payment plan is often the first step in keeping your car right where it belongs.

Protecting Your Financial Future

It’s not just about the car; it’s about your reputation. Missing payments leaves a mark on your credit score that can haunt you for years, making it much harder to get a house or even a cell phone contract later on.

To stay in the clear, WesBank suggests a few practical moves:

• Prioritize the essentials: If money is tight, pay for your roof, your lights, and your transport first.
• Automate your life: Set up debit orders so you don’t accidentally forget a payment date.
• Look at refinancing: You might be able to lower your monthly installments or find a better interest rate to give your budget some breathing room.
• Consider a ‘downgrade’: If the math just doesn’t work anymore, selling the car yourself or switching to a more affordable model is a much better outcome than a forced repossession.

The Last Resort

Repossession only happens when every other bridge has been burned. The goal is to find a solution long before the legal teams get involved.

As Gaoaketse concludes: “It is important for customers to understand that creditors will only repossess a vehicle as a last resort if no other payment arrangement can be made. We always investigate and discuss all options available to our customers so they can make the repayments. It really is in everyone’s favour, at the end of the day, to keep the car in the customer’s garage, rather than on our auction floor”.

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.