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
Volkswagen acknowledged its top performers from the dealer network at its annual Grand Prix Awards where the top award as Dealer of the Year went to Conrad Gresse of Upington Volkswagen.
Lemmy Dolezal of the Lowveld Group has once again clinched the title of Micro Dealer Group of the Year, repeating his success from last year. The award, which requires a minimum of two dealerships contributing at least 2% towards the overall Volkswagen Dealer sales result, serves as a testament to Dolezal's outstanding leadership and dedication.
A significant milestone achievement, the Macro Dealer Group of the Year award was won by Michael Kaftel of the Hatfield Group for the seventh consecutive year. The Hatfield Group exhibited genuine commitment to excellence by contributing a minimum of 8% to the overall Volkswagen Dealer Sales result.
The awards ceremony also recognised other noteworthy accomplishments within the Volkswagen dealer network. Williem Fourie of Lindsay Saker Alberton was named Service Manager of the Year while André Kramer of McCarthy VW Parow was named New Vehicle Sales Manager of the Year.
A Lifetime Achievement award was also presented to Hendrick Vermaak of McCarthy Group. The Lifetime Achievement award honours individuals who have dedicated their lives to making significant contributions and have left a lasting legacy of the Volkswagen Brand, their community and the automotive industry.
At the ceremony, 86 members of the Volkswagen dealer network were recognised across 20 different award categories.
“The Volkswagen Grand Prix Awards stand as a testament to the unwavering dedication, tireless effort and exceptional service consistently provided by our dealer network. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, expressing profound gratitude for their invaluable contributions to the continued success and reputation of the Volkswagen brand,” says Niels Wichmann, Head of Brand Volkswagen Passenger Cars.
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.
To be the top dealership out of more than 200 from a manufacturer, holding the top sales spot for the last 46 years, is no small feat. In fact, it requires dedication, effort, skill, ingenuity and leadership.