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
The Mazda3 faces some serious competition in its segment, and Mazda hopes the current facelift might swing a few more potential buyers in its direction.
What’s new?
A number of small changes across different areas will help to keep the Mazda3 fresh and competitive.
Technology:
The facelift version now offers Android Auto and Wireless Apple CarPlay, USB Type-C connectivity and wireless charging (Qi standard) that works on all modern smartphones. These additions ensure that the Mazda3 offers buyers the latest and most convenient connectivity options.
Exterior:
The recent facelift also adds a new exterior colour: Ceramic White. Mazda is constantly evolving its vehicle paint techniques so that every shade perfectly accentuates the design of its vehicles.
Engines:
The drivetrain options remain the same with the 1.5-litre petrol engine good for 88 kW and 153 Nm, and the flagship models get the 2.0 litre petrol engine that delivers 121 kW and 213 Nm.
Line-up and price:
Along with the facelift, Mazda has made changes to the Mazda3 model line-up, which is now available in three variants:
Mazda3 1.5L Dynamic 6MT (R447 500), Mazda3 1.5L Dynamic 6AT (R462 500) and the Mazda3 2.0L Astina 6AT (R565 700).
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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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
The Nissan Navara Warrior by Premcar has reached its first year on sale in South Africa, offering buyers a more capable, off-road-focused version of the standard Navara bakkie.
Salvador Caetano South Africa has launched the all-new JMC Vigus bakkie onto the local market, marking the brand's entry into the highly competitive South African one-tonne pickup segment with the new vehicle.
The refreshed Ford Ranger line-up for 2026 strengthens its position as one of South Africa’s most popular bakkies. Built at Silverton, the range now spans 23 derivatives across Single Cab, Super Cab and Double Cab body styles.