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
Suzuki set another new Guinness World Record for the most cars to close their doors at exactly the same time.
Hundreds of Jimny owners lined up side by side to create a reel-worthy spectacle that reflected both the playful essence of the vehicle and the strong sense of camaraderie it inspires among its faithful.
“Jimny Gathering is not just about celebrating the car we all love so much,” explains Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager at Suzuki Auto South Africa. “It’s about honouring and saying thanks to all the people who make the close-knit Jimny family such a special one to be part of. Though this passion was felt throughout the event, it truly peaked on Saturday morning when a huge number of Jimny, LJ, SJ and Samurai models from all over South Africa took part in the world’s biggest synchronised door slam.
“We had an official representative from Guinness World Records on site, and he confirmed there were 1 127 vehicles in attendance and that we broke the record when 1 838 doors closed simultaneously. This accolade adds to the one we set at the Jimny Gathering 2023 for the most vehicles to switch on their lights at the same time – quite a big deal for a small car.”
Suzuki Auto South Africa wrapped up the second-ever Jimny Gathering this past weekend at Louvain Guest Farm in the Western Cape. Over a thousand Jimny owners and fans came together for a jam-packed line-up of outdoor fun, live music and that unmistakable Suzuki spirit.
Over the course of four days, participants tackled purpose-built trails and explored the beautiful yet challenging terrain of the Outeniqua Mountains, putting their giant-slaying machines through their paces in true Jimny style.
Held in the nearby town of Oudtshoorn on Saturday, it kept crowds entertained late into the evening with performances from some of South Africa’s top artists, including Jeremy Loops, Spoegwolf, Karen Zoid, Early B and Rhino & The Rasta. Hosted by comedian and Jimny owner, Schalk Bezuidenhout, festivalgoers were also treated to a live screening of the Springboks’ match against Argentina in The Rugby Championship.
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.