Cars.co.za report offers interesting insights
Cars.co.za recently launched Industry Report 2026 at its DealerCon summit, offers insight into the forces shaping South Africa’s vehicle market.
- Dealer News
- 22 September 2026
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) returns as sponsor of the Absa Cape Epic for the fourth consecutive year, standing alongside Absa, which celebrates 20 years as title sponsor of the world’s toughest mountain bike stage race.
From 15 to 22 March 2026, elite riders and passionate amateurs will face eight days of brutal climbs, technical descents and unforgiving terrain in South Africa’s Western Cape.
A defining feature of the event remains the Toyota Tough sections, designed to challenge even the strongest riders and often decisive in shaping stage outcomes. Toyota’s support fleet, led by the Land Cruiser Prado, will traverse remote passes and rugged trails to ensure the race runs seamlessly, while also showcasing the vehicle’s legendary off-road capability.
At the centre of Toyota’s presence are its riders. The Toyota Specialized Inbuko team features three-time champion Matt Beers alongside Tristan Nortje, while Marco Joubert and Travis Stedman form a second experienced pairing with several other riders in Toyota colours.
In the women’s field, Candice Lill, backed by Rola Toyota, partners Swiss world champion Alessandra Keller in the Thömus Maxon Sabi-Sabi team. The Toyota Gazoo Racing mixed team of Sarah Maré (Hill) and Riaan Weideman will aim for podium success, with Toyota once again sponsoring the mixed category and its green leader jersey.
Absa’s role extends beyond sponsorship. For two decades, the bank has been integral to the race’s identity and continues to field Team Absa, whose riders train intensively for the event and embody the values of resilience and teamwork that define the Cape Epic.
As Glenn Crompton, Vice President: Marketing at TSAM, explains: “Our continued partnership with the Absa Cape Epic reflects Toyota’s belief in pushing boundaries and embracing challenges. For the fourth year running, Toyota is proud to support a race that demands the very best from riders and vehicles alike.”
Cars.co.za recently launched Industry Report 2026 at its DealerCon summit, offers insight into the forces shaping South Africa’s vehicle market.
Nissan has introduced the Tekton, a new compact SUV for the South African market. The model is built on the Renault‑Nissan alliance’s CMF‑B platform and is closely related to the Renault Duster, sharing engines and mechanical components.
At the recent DealerCon 2026, hosted by Cars.co.za automotive excellence was celebrated by honouring top executives in the automotive retails industry.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Car recalls often raise concern among owners, but the National Automobile Dealers' Association (NADA) says recall campaigns show that manufacturers are accountable and committed to quality, safety and customer care.
Affordability is driving a structural shift in South Africa’s vehicle market, with SUVs gaining significant ground as consumers increasingly seek competitively priced, well-equipped vehicles.
South Africa’s used car market continued to grow during the first half of 2026, despite pressure on household budgets and a 25 basis point interest rate increase in May.