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
Mazda has unveiled its EZ-60, an electric crossover SUV, the result of a joint venture between Mazda and Changan Automobile. It is the second electric vehicle (NEV) manufactured by Changan Mazda.
It will go on sale in China during this year, and this new model will expand Mazda's electric vehicle line-up in the Chinese market together with EZ-6 launched last year.
The Mazda EZ-60 will be available in electric vehicle (BEV) and the plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) models.
Masahiro Moro, President and CEO of Mazda Motor Corporation, said: "We are very pleased to unveil our second new electric vehicle that brings together the strengths of Mazda and Changan Automobile this year, which marks the 20th anniversary of Changan Mazda, and we feel truly grateful for the support of our customers in China.
A first-class driving experience is predicted with its 50:50 front/rear weight distribution, strut suspension at the front and multi-link suspension at the rear, and electronically controlled dampers that can respond to a variety of driving situations.
The driving range is expected to be around 600km for the BEV model and more than 1 000km per refuelling for the PHEV model.
Some smart features include a smart cabin that can be operated by voice, touch or gesture; the intelligent drive to help the driver avoid an accident or reduce damage; and the intelligent parking that can be operated by voice even from outside the vehicle.
Inside is a 26.45-inch 5K integrated flat-panel centre display and a virtual 3D head-up display. Information and visuals displayed prominently in front of the driver support safety and security while providing a futuristic driving experience.
A powerful and realistic sound experience is delivered through 23 speakers and a 3D sound system. In addition, the headrest speakers allow the driver and front passenger to listen to different music.
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.
Retail new vehicle sales continue to surge in South Africa despite global and regional conflicts, local floods and droughts.
South Africa’s new vehicle market delivered a standout performance in March 2026, extending its domestic growth trajectory to the strongest level seen in nearly two decades.
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While rising fuel prices often trigger spikes in interest around electric vehicles, Volvo Car South Africa believes the real reasons South Africans are starting to consider EVs go far beyond the petrol pump.
MG has opened a new engineering centre in Frankfurt as part of its “in Europe, for Europe” approach. The facility will focus on developing vehicles suited to European conditions, including climate, roads and driving habits. It will work alongside existing teams in the United Kingdom (UK) and London design hub.
Europe’s used electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing a notable surge as the Iran conflict drives up global oil prices and pushes petrol costs sharply higher across the continent.