BMW iX3 crowned World Car of the Year 2026 as EVs lead the way
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
- Industry News
- 2 April 2026
Rola Toyota Somerset West picked up the top award as Dealer of the Year at the manufacture’s awards held last under the theme, Challenge and Innovate.
The top dealership also received the President’s Award in the large category while the Rola Motor Group’s CEO, Marius Classen was awarded the prestigious President Award: Group MD Divisional.
Commenting on the significance of the awards, President and CEO of TSAM, Andrew Kirby says the Toyota Dealer of the Year Awards are a cornerstone on their calendar. “The awards are aimed at recognising our dealer network whose operational excellence and service innovation translate strategy into measurable growth and enduring customer trust.
President and CEO of TSAM, Andrew Kirby and Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at TSAM, Leon Theron, conferred the coveted 2025 National Dealer of the Year Awards to the following recipients:
2025 Toyota Dealer of the Year award: Rola Toyota Somerset West:
Rola Toyota Somerset West has reflected consistent dedication to delivering exceptional Toyota experiences, advancing professional standards and fostering continued growth in its market. The dealership was recognised for outstanding performance, excellence in customer service and exemplary operational leadership within the Toyota dealer network.
Under the guidance of the Dealer Principal Andries de Villiers, the team has upheld Toyota’s commitment to quality and guest satisfaction. The dealer achieved exceptional results to improve sales effectiveness and customer service, a reflection of their dedication to continuous improvement. Their operational excellence is supported by their state-of-the-art facility, which positions the dealership as a premier destination for Toyota guests.
2025 Independent Dealer of the Year: Upington Toyota:
On a second consecutive winning streak, Upington Toyota has established itself as a trusted partner within the community. For decades, the dealership has provided dependable mobility solutions for families, farmers and businesses alike.
Their influence extends beyond the showroom. The dealership actively contributes to local development and community well-being, from supporting agricultural initiatives to uplifting local organisations, embodying the town’s enduring ethos of mutual support and progress. It is this spirit of service, heart and purposeful engagement that sets this dealership apart.
President’s Award: Group MD Divisional:
From humble beginnings to becoming a President Award recipient, Marius Claasen has become a respected player in the automotive industry. Guided by his motto, “Services is your best Salesperson”, he inspires his team to consistently exceed expectations and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Marius’ unwavering dedication and commitment to service excellence has grown Rola Motors to greater heights. His forward-thinking leadership continues to drive investment into innovative initiatives that set the standard for what the Dealer of the Future should be.
President’s Award: Group MD:
Shane Grant from Halfway Toyota Group embodies leadership that delivers sustainable growth, operational excellence and a lasting positive impact on the Dealer Group including its stakeholders. Shane has spearheaded a culture of continuous improvement, customer-centric service standards and high-performance teams that consistently elevate the Group’s market position. Overall, Shane embodies consistent performance, strategic foresight and a principled leadership style.
President’s Award, Small: Lichtenburg Toyota:
Honoured for their exceptional commitment to customer service and community values, Lichtenburg Toyota has become a trusted pillar of progress. In 2025, the team achieved Platinum customer experience status - a demonstration of their continued outstanding performance in redefining excellence within automotive retail.
President’s Award, Medium: CFAO Mobility Toyota Welkom:
Celebrated for their exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence, CFAO Mobility Toyota Welkom stands as a pillar of service and community impact. Guided by integrity and driven by a passionate team, the dealership consistently elevates customer experience, strengthening local relationships and exemplifying the highest standards of achievement in the region.
President’s Award, Large: Rola Toyota Somerset West:
Rola Toyota Somerset West has become a landmark of excellence in their region. Their spirit of resilience, innovation and community cohesion mirrors the values that Toyota embodies. With a state‑of‑the‑art facility, exceptional leadership and a passionate team, the dealership consistently delivers outstanding performance and customer care - setting new benchmarks in automotive retail and strengthening its region’s proud heritage.
President’s Award, Mega: Halfway Toyota Honeydew:
Halfway Toyota Honeydew stands as a cornerstone of excellence. The dealership is celebrated for outstanding service, innovation, community upliftment and economic contribution. Guided by visionary leadership and a high‑performing team, the dealership has consistently set new benchmarks, achieving exceptional results, including 128% of sales targets.
Lifting above the currents, Orbit Commercial Vehicles Cape Town was once again named the overall 2025 Dealer of the Year and Elite Class winner for Southern Africa at Daimler Truck Southern Africa’s (DTSA) Dealer of the Year Awards.
Gerhard Moolman has stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer at LDV South Africa with a clear priority: strengthening the company’s dealer network.
Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) marked its 2026 Annual Dealer Awards in Gqeberha by recognising dealerships who consistently deliver the everyday dependability customers count on, before, during and long after the keys are handed over.