Hyundai celebrates 800 000 vehicles sold in SA
Hyundai Automotive South Africa is celebrating a significant milestone, namely 800 000 vehicles sold so far since its debut 25 years ago.
- Industry News
- 2 March 2026
Kia launched an enhanced version of its Carnival, a versatile companion for families.
What is it?
Positioned between rugged SUVs and traditional people-movers, the Carnival combines the best of both, offering cutting-edge technology, a powerful engine and platform, and a premium, spacious interior, says Kia.
Exterior:
The Carnival embraces Kia’s contemporary SUV-inspired design language, aligning with the sharp styling seen across the brand’s latest models. The bonnet is sculpted while pronounced wheel arches lend a robust profile.
A bold character line runs the length of the vehicle, visually connecting the front and rear lighting elements. Premium design touches, such as large two-tone side mirrors, black and chrome rocker panel mouldings and rear skid plate garnish underscore its upscale appeal. Completing the SUV-like stance are stylish 18- or 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels, fitted as standard.
Interior:
Inside, this three-row vehicle, which is available in seven or eight-passenger configurations, offers smart technology and versatile functionality. It provides ample space for everything, from passengers and playtime gear to DIY supplies.
The central fascia features a premium high-gloss black finish, while a signature chrome strip runs across the dash. There are slim, metal-effect air vents, complemented by a two-tone leather interior.
With all seats in place, there’s a generous 1 139 litres of luggage space. Remove the second row and stow the third row flat, and cargo capacity expands to 4 110 litres.
In the top of range SXL model, this seven-seat variant features Kia’s innovative ‘Slide-Flex’ seating system, which offers multiple configurations for seven passengers, including a sliding second-row centre seat. When moved fully forward, it gives front passengers easy access to a child or baby and it can also be transformed into a convenient table.
Engine:
The Kia Carnival is powered by a 2.2-litre ‘Smartstream’ CRDi turbodiesel engine, which boasts 148kW with 440Nm of torque and it’s paired to an 8-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.
Price:
Two specification levels are offered - Carnival 2.2 CRDi EX 8AT 7-Seater (R1 049 995) and the Carnival 2.2 CRDi SXL 8AT 7-Seater (R1 299 995).
An all-new double-cab bakkie with a 2.5-litre turbodiesel plug-in hybrid powertrain will find its way to South Africa.
Mazda South Africa has added a new model to its CX-3 range, one of the better selling nameplates of the brand.
In the - dare one says - overcrowded bakkie market in South Africa, there is no slow-down in new bakkies coming to the country to take on the very well-established trio occupying the podium positions.