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
Public entries for The Cape 1000, 2026, South Africa’s most prestigious regularity rally, is officially open with registrations to be done at www.cape1000.com.
Launched in 2022 and inspired by legendary tribute races around the world, The Cape 1000 offers a unique blend of classic motoring, competitive driving and scenic exploration over a four-day, 1000-mile (1 600km) adventure through the Western Cape.
Participants compete in four distinctive categories:
* Pre-1976 (Classic).
* 1977–1996 (Modern Classic).
* 1997–current (Sports).
* Restomod / Recreation.
“Although we have a limited supercar category, The Cape 1000 aims to showcase older and rarer vehicles,” says event director Vanessa Crichton. Past entries have included an ultra-rare 1935 Bentley Derby Special, a 1958 Corvette Stingray SWC, a 1966 Sunbeam Tiger, and a 1973 Ferrari Dino.
The rally kicks off with our flagship Show and Shine at the Cape Town Hotel School on Sunday, 15 March 2026. The first day will see us traversing the Cape Peninsula followed by scenic routes through to Fancourt and Hermanus before returning to the Mother City for the iconic finish at The Silo Precinct at The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront on Thursday, 19 March 2026.
While much of the journey is dedicated to grand touring, organisers are placing an increased emphasis on the regularity rallying component for 2026 — combining the thrill of precision driving with the joy of exploring breathtaking landscapes.
Event beneficiaries include:
Spaces are limited and demand is high — interested entrants are strongly encouraged to register as early as possible.
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.
Nissan South Africa has agreed to sell its Rosslyn production facility after 60 years of operation. The plant, which produced models such as the 1400 ‘Champ’ bakkie, NP200 and Navara, was acquired by Chery SA. The Chinese automaker has sold over 80,000 vehicles locally since 2021 and is now strengthening its African presence.
Following an intense national selection process that pushed participants to the limit, South Africa’s representatives for the 2026 Defender Trophy global final have been decided.