The legend is back - VW introduces updated Golf GTI
Volkswagen will introduce the updated Golf GTI to the South African market in the last quarter of 2025. Well over 2.3 million GTIs have been sold worldwide.
- Product News
- 2 September 2025
What to see at the Festival of Motoring.
Volkswagen to showcase new Golf , Tayron and Polo GTI Black Style
Volkswagen’s return to the Festival of Motoring from 29 – 31 August 2025 at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit will see the introduction a range of new models and offer exclusive surprises for visitors.
The new Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI will be the star of the show. Alongside the new Golf GTI, Volkswagen will showcase the all-new Tayron, the bold Polo GTI Black Style, the limited-edition Polo Vivo 15 Edition, and the new Transporter, including the powerful 222kW Amarok. Step into the action at the Volkswagen stand and be in line to experience the adrenaline rush of a high-speed ride with Volkswagen Motorsport drivers in a SupaCup racing Polo.
Experience a range of family friendly activities from thrilling simulator competitions to fun art sessions for kids or explore the Volkswagen fan merchandise shop for exclusive Volkswagen memorabilia.
Two major debuts for Omoda and Jaecoo at this year’s FOM
Omoda en Jaecoo will see two major debuts at the Festival of Motoring (FOM), where the brands plan to share a unified presence, expanding across three adjacent bays in the Main Pit Area. Visitors can explore the two distinct brand zones, linked by an interactive experience that balances innovation with entertainment.
The most noteworthy attractions will include the debut of the JAECOO J5, marking its first public appearance, alongside the official reveal of the OMODA C7 ahead of its market launch in October. Complementing these milestones will be an energetic Sound Bar silent disco experience and the Recharge Bar pop-up coffee station, designed for quick breaks only on Saturday and Sunday, operating for one hour each day.
GWM planning on going big at this weekend’s event
GWM is celebrating 18 years in South Africa with a powerful presence at the 2025 Festival of Motoring.
GWM will activate across three key zones. In the main pits, visitors will be able to view a selection of vehicles and engage directly with the brand on and off the track. At the dedicated 4x4 stand, the P-Series and TANK models will showcase their capability and performance in true off-road conditions. The self-drive area will allow enthusiasts to get behind the wheel of the latest models GWM has on offer, including NEV models and the newly launched Haval H6 GT PHEV.
GWM invites media, car enthusiasts and families to experience the brand at the 2025 Festival of Motoring. From city ready hybrids to rugged 4x4s, there is something for everyone and plenty of opportunity to explore, test and engage with the vehicles shaping the future of mobility in South Africa.
LPG Autogas Ford Mustang to roar at Kyalami
The Festival of Motoring will make automotive history this year. MasterDrive, in association with the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) and Automotive Remanufacturers' Association (ARA), a constituent Association of the RMI, will debut the FOM Green – South Africa's first LPG Autogas-powered performance vehicle.
The specially converted Ford Mustang 5.0 GT is a first. CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, expands: “It is a fusion of environmental consciousness and high-performance driving. The retrofitted Mustang runs on LPG Autogas and is a tangible demonstration that sustainable motoring does not need to compromise on the thrill of performance vehicles.
It is a reimagining of alternative fuel vehicles. The Mustang retains its formidable 328kW V8 engine. It is still capable of launching from 0-100km/h in under five seconds and reaching a top speed of 250km/h.
Volkswagen will introduce the updated Golf GTI to the South African market in the last quarter of 2025. Well over 2.3 million GTIs have been sold worldwide.
Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles is back in the country and has just introduced its all-new Tiago.
The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) notes that August continued the positive trend for new-vehicle sales in South Africa, reflecting strong consumer demand and activity across the market.
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A light on my car’s dashboard came on, and instead of fixing the problem, I waited for the bulb to burn out. Crisis solved.
Jarod Kintz
The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) notes that August continued the positive trend for new-vehicle sales in South Africa, reflecting strong consumer demand and activity across the market.
Although the tariff clouds are gathering over the South African economy with serious implications for the local automotive export industry, local sales of new vehicles are soldiering on at a decent pace.
Automechanika Johannesburg successfully hosted its final CEO Breakfast for 2025 at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, bringing together senior automotive industry leaders for strategic discussions as the co-located Festival of Motoring roared into life.