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.

Running on the latest One UI 8.5, these devices introduce “Awesome Intelligence” which is a suite of AI-powered tools previously reserved for flagship models. The tools are designed to simplify productivity, photo editing, and search.

With a focus on longevity, Samsung is promising up to six generations of OS upgrades and six years of security support.

The new A-series leverages AI to streamline daily workflows. A standout addition is Voice Transcription within the Voice Recorder app, which can now transcribe and translate meetings or turn voicemails into text.

Productivity is further enhanced by AI Select, accessible via the Edge Panel, which allows users to extract text or images directly from the screen and move them into Samsung Notes or the Photo Editor using a drag-and-drop interface. Additionally, the popular Circle to Search with Google now supports multi-object recognition, allowing users to identify multiple items within a single image simultaneously.

Both the Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G feature a versatile triple-camera system led by a 50MP main sensor. Supported by an improved Image Signal Processor (ISP), the hardware delivers sharper details and better colour balance in varied lighting. Samsung’s Nightography has also been refined, reducing noise and sharpening details in low-light environments.

In terms of styling, the Galaxy A57 5G features a refined, slimmer design while improving sustained performance through a 13% larger vapor chamber to manage heat during gaming or intensive recording sessions.

It is equipped with a bright Super AMOLED+ display with Vision Booster technology for better outdoor visibility. Both devices house a 5000mAh battery capable of up to two days of use, and with Super-Fast Charging 2.0, users can reach a 60% charge in approximately 30 minutes.

The phones also carry an IP68 rating, providing high-level water and dust resistance for real-world durability.

Security remains a pillar of the A-series experience. For the first time in this segment, Samsung is emphasising Knox Vault, a hardware-based, tamper-resistant solution that protects sensitive data. New features include Private Album for locking away personal media and Privacy Alerts, which proactively notify users of potential risks regarding location permissions or suspicious data monitoring.

The Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G are available in several colour ways, including Awesome Navy, Grey, Lavender, and Dark Green.

Launch promotions include bundle savings on the Galaxy Fit3 and Galaxy Buds Core when purchased from Samsung stores, Incredible Connection, or Takealot. Owners can also opt for Samsung Care+ for comprehensive device protection.

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.

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.

The data suggests this “seasonal dip” isn’t necessarily due to a change in criminal intent, but rather a change in operational patterns. With the closure of schools, offices, and commercial hubs, the sheer volume of targets on the road, and where they are parked, shifts fundamentally at year-end.

The Business vs. Personal Risk Profile

The primary driver behind the December decline was a significant 35% reduction in the theft of business-owned vehicles. This aligns with the slowdown of corporate fleets and logistics operations during the holidays.

However, the risk profile between business and personal vehicles remains distinct:

• Business Vehicles: These are twice as likely to be hijacked than stolen, representing a high-risk “active” threat for commercial operators.
• Personal Vehicles: The split is nearly even, with a slight tilt toward theft (52%) over hijacking (48%).

Regional Anomalies: The Western Cape Outlier

While Gauteng followed the national downward trend, the Western Cape presented a localised spike in crime involving business-owned vehicles. During December, the province recorded its highest levels of both hijacking and theft in the commercial sector.

Analysts attribute this to the Western Cape’s high hospitality and tourism activity during the summer. As deliveries surge to keep up with tourist demand in hotspots, opportunistic criminals pivot their focus toward these active commercial veins, a trend corroborated by recent SAPS quarterly statistics.

Timing the Threat: Peak Hours for Theft and Hijacking

The Tracker Index provides a specific breakdown of when vehicles are most at risk, revealing that criminals operate on highly structured schedules:

The data indicates that hijackings are largely a weekday phenomenon, peaking during the late afternoon and evening “commute” windows. Conversely, vehicle theft peaks during the weekend for personal vehicles and at the close of the business week for commercial fleets.

Recovery and Arrest Metrics

Despite the seasonal fluctuations, the high-volume nature of vehicle crime in Mzansi remains a constant. Tracker reported that in the final six months of 2025 alone, the company recovered 3590 vehicles, leading to 127 arrests and the recovery of 12 firearms.

Duma Ngcobo, Chief Operating Officer at Tracker, warned that while the numbers might dip periodically, vigilance shouldn’t. “While schools and workplaces close, crime hasn’t stopped,” Ngcobo noted. The shift in routine – such as parking in unfamiliar holiday locations or altered driving times – can often create new vulnerabilities that criminals are quick to exploit.