BMW iX3 crowned World Car of the Year 2026 as EVs lead the way
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
- Industry News
- 2 April 2026
Renault launched the new Mégane R.S. 300 Trophy in South Africa with 221 kW, which tops the Cup’s 205 kW from the same 1800 turbo-charged petrol engine. The ‘300’ in the name refers to the amount of horsepower (300) delivered by the engine.
On the exterior, the R.S. 300 Trophy boasts unique side panel Trophy insignia, a distinctive Sport front bumper with F1 blade, a specific Rear Diffuser, an intelligent central exhaust pipe and unique Jerez Triple Tone 19” wheels.
The interior presents another step into the R.S. world with its signature Recaro seats, finished in Alcantara, with racy red top-stitching on the upholstery. Other R.S. specific design cues within the cockpit include the Alcantara steering wheel, the Zamac Aluminium gear lever knob, and handbrake gaiter.
Offered with the choice of a manual (400 Nm) or dual-clutch EDC gearbox (420 Nm), the 1.8 litre turbo-engine’s output has increased thanks to upgrades made to, among other things, the turbo’s ceramic ball bearing. There is also an intelligent exhaust pipe with dual sound valve system.
The R.S. driving experience is further enhanced through advanced and engaging technology such as the R.S. Monitor and Race Mode, for an “augmented” driving experience. Bi-material brakes with Red Brembo callipers are standard.
The R.S. rides on the best in class Cup chassis with stiffer suspension and a Torsen mechanical limited slip differential, enabling better cornering and traction. The R.S. Trophy also boasts upper segment features like 4CONTROL technology. This four-wheel steering system delivers outstanding agility through tight turns and impressive cornering stability at higher speeds.
Inside you will find an interactive Renault Multimedia System, including an 8.7” touchscreen, a satellite navigation system, Bluetooth, USB and AUX input, as well as Apple Car Play & Android Auto. Standard trim further include features such as dual zone climate control, cruise control with speed limiter, Renault’s hands-free card and automatic lights and windshield wipers.
Prices (June 2020): New Mégane R.S. 300 TROPHY Manual (R774 900), New Mégane R.S. 300 TROPHY EDC (R799 900)
Competitors include: Hyundai i30 N, VW Golf GTI TCR, VW Golf R, Mercedes-Benz CLA AMG, Jaguar XE P300, Honda Civic Type R and the BMW M135i xDrive.
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
Retail new vehicle sales continue to surge in South Africa despite global and regional conflicts, local floods and droughts.
South Africa’s new vehicle market delivered a standout performance in March 2026, extending its domestic growth trajectory to the strongest level seen in nearly two decades.
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