
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
Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) has appointed Grant Locke (photo) as its new Managing Director (MD), succeeding Tarcísio Triviño, who served as MD since October 2024.
Grant previously served as Global Head of Financial Services at Volvo Cars, leading a 60-person team and playing a key role in evolving the brand’s global financial services strategy. Before that, he was Head of Commercial for Volvo’s Mobility and Financial Services division.
“We are pleased to welcome Grant to Volvo Car South Africa. His blend of commercial acumen and leadership in digital transformation will strengthen the business as we continue to accelerate our growth locally,” commented Marishka Govender, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at VCSA.
Grant’s task is to lead VCSA’s operations, driving strategic growth, refining the customer experience and advancing the company’s electrification ambitions in South Africa. His appointment comes at a time of rapid change in the local automotive sector, where evolving mobility trends and digital innovation are reshaping how consumers and automakers engage.
He brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in commercial business, with a focus on financial services. Before joining Volvo, he worked in South Africa’s financial services sector with OUTvest, an investment service platform developed within OUTsurance.
VCSA is entering the next phase of its network restructuring, focusing on strengthening its national dealer network by rebuilding service coverage for existing clients and establishing a robust distribution and service network nationwide, the company says.
“This renewed approach underscores the brand’s commitment to give South African customers convenient access to first-rate service and support. As Volvo continues to expand its electrified product portfolio, this investment in the local retail footprint forms a critical part of its long-term growth strategy in the country, balancing innovation and sustainability with a customer-centric approach,” the statement continues.
“I am delighted to be joining Volvo Car South Africa at such a pivotal moment for the brand and the broader industry. I look forward to working with the talented team at VCSA to build on the company’s strong foundation and to help shape the future of mobility,” says Grant.
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.