Dakar 2026 tough on South African participants
The 2026 Dakar Rally delivered one of the most thrilling and competitive editions of the world’s toughest off‑road endurance race.
- Industry News
- 19 January 2026
Volkswagen has introduced a comprehensive service and maintenance programme called EasyDrive Vehicle Plans.
According to the manufacturer, the plans will give customers peace-of-mind motoring and benefits like protection against inflation as prices are fixed at today’s rates for future servicing and maintenance costs, transferability from the current owner to a new owner and enhanced resale value with a full service-history, says Steffen Knapp, Head of the Volkswagen Passenger Car Brand.
Customers have the option of extending the EasyDrive Maintenance and Service Plans up to 10 years/ 300 000 km.
The comprehensive EasyDrive Maintenance Plan covers all costs (parts and labour) associated with scheduled vehicle services, repairs of defective components and wear and tear items (excluding tyres) that need to be replaced as well as 24/7 Roadside Assistance.
The EasyDrive Service Plan covers all manufacturer-specific scheduled service requirements, including parts and labour costs.
Included in the EasyDrive Maintenance and Service Plans is access to the technical expertise of the 109-strong Dealer Network in Southern Africa, over 40 000 genuine Volkswagen vehicle parts, which are available in the country as well as customer care in the form of 24-hour Roadside Assistance.
Using the WeConnect Go App, Volkswagen drivers can book a vehicle service on the app. Using the digital Service Cam feature, a first and an innovation for the dealer network in South Africa, a technician can diagnose an issue on the car and show this to the customer via video, the customer is then able to give approval before repairs are made on the vehicle.
The 2026 Dakar Rally delivered one of the most thrilling and competitive editions of the world’s toughest off‑road endurance race.
Volvo Cars has partnered with type specialists Dalton Maag to develop Centum, a bespoke typeface crafted specifically for the in‑car environment.
Time to enter is running out for prospective participants in the 16th Simola Hillclimb, which will be held in the Knysna region later this year from 30 April to 3 May.