Kia’s Tasman bakkie arrives in South Africa
Kia has taken a bold step into one of South Africa’s most competitive automotive segments with the launch of the Tasman, its first-ever double cab bakkie.
- Product News
- 9 April 2026
"I can still remember back in the days when one of the worst experiences was to take your vehicle for a service. I was 18 years old and getting up early, waiting in queues and being exposed to the elements became a “outing” I dreaded."
That outcome and the fact that they required a totally different experience were what was really needed, stuck with Imtiaz Laher, owner and Dealer Principal of Freeway Toyota in Ormonde, Johannesburg.
Over the years, he always aimed to give a better service at his family-owned dealership, but his dream was to have a dealership that stood out from the rest in every aspect of the business.
After visits to the USA and Middle Eastern Toyota dealerships, where mega facilities offering different customer comforts are well-known, he knew exactly what he had to do, he tells Dealerfloor.
Freeway Toyota now
“The project to make Freeway Toyota one of a kind in South Africa began in all earnest about a year and a half ago. Not only did we triple the size of our premises, but we totally transformed the facility and what we had to offer,” he tells us.
“In a pioneering move for the South African automotive industry, Freeway Toyota has launched the country's first original online parts store. Customers can easily purchase online with quick and convenient delivery nationwide.
“The new pre-owned inventory of 150 vehicles caters to a wide range of price categories.
“At the heart of the new offerings is an ultra-luxury restaurant, equipped with Wi-Fi and power points, providing a comfortable and luxurious environment for customers. Clients can book a 60-minute express service and enjoy a complimentary waffle and coffee while they wait, making vehicle maintenance a pleasant and convenient experience.
Freeway Toyota then
“The restaurant will also be open over weekends, allowing visitors to indulge in culinary delights while exploring and purchasing their next dream vehicle. The restaurant, YML, is the initials of his father who passed away last year,” Imtiaz says.
Freeway Toyota is still a family-owned Toyota dealership established in 1982 with the Laher-family buying the dealership in 1997.
He says this expansion extends Freeway Toyota's commitment to high volume and fair profits, a principle that has defined their outlook on vehicle sales.
“This innovation aims to transform the often stressful experience of vehicle servicing. Customers can now enjoy a seamless service booking process and benefit from a host of new amenities designed to enhance their visit,” he concludes.
Located near Gold Reef City, Freeway Toyota continues to set new standards in the automotive industry with these exciting developments. The dealership invites everyone to experience the future of automotive service and sales.
Freeway Toyota YML Eatery
Kia has taken a bold step into one of South Africa’s most competitive automotive segments with the launch of the Tasman, its first-ever double cab bakkie.
Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has reached another major milestone with the production of the 500 000th unit of the current Polo for the export market.
OMODA has expanded its South African lineup with the arrival of the C5 SHS hybrid, a new addition to the C5 range.
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