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
Another new brand has entered the South African automotive scene. The Chinese GAC Motor kicked off its presence in the country with the launch of the GAC GS3 EMZOOM SUV/Crossover. GAC Motor has signed a strategic agreement with the Salvador Caetano Group to handle distribution and retail operations in South Africa.
What is it?
Positioned as a "next-generation SUV", the GS3 EMZOOM is set to captivate South African consumers with its combination of aesthetics, practicality and quality, according to the company.
GAC Motor, a subsidiary of GAC Group, was founded in 2008. GAC Motor has rapidly grown into one of China’s leading vehicle manufacturers, boasting a workforce of 113 000 employees and earning a spot at number 165 on the 2023 Fortune Global 500 list.
Exterior:
The GS3 EMZOOM features a sporty, dynamic design with sharp lines and eye-catching taillights to the sporty rear wing and hidden door handles.
The GS3 EMZOOM's flying-mecha front face design includes integrated LED headlights, featuring 18 LED bulbs for daytime running lights. The vehicle’s sleek sides are accentuated by a double waistline element, and the taillights, with 66 LED bulbs, create a 3D effect, complemented by the rear wing.
Interior:
Inside, it offers ergonomic seating and space for five adults as well as a spacious trunk.
The GS3 EMZOOM’s dual-screen dashboard includes a high-performance central console powered by an 8-core chipset and a 10.25-inch multi-functional touchscreen. The range also features an LCD instrument cluster of up to 7 inches, a surround-view camera system and a suite of Level 2 ADAS functions, ensuring a safe and intuitive driving experience.
The GS3 EMZOOM is designed with functionality in mind, offering keyless entry, push-button start, ambient cabin lighting, numerous charging ports, and dual-zone automatic air-conditioning.
The R-Style model, with its diamond-designed gear shift, sporty 18-inch wheels and super-size panoramic openable sunroof, adds extra flair.
Engine:
Under the hood, the GS3 EMZOOM is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, generating 130 kW and 270 Nm of torque. Drivers can choose between three driving modes: Eco, Comfort and Sport, catering to various driving preferences.
The GS3 EMZOOM’s 7-speed automatic transmission with wet dual-clutch ensures smooth, rapid gear shifts.
Prices:
GS3 EMZOOM 1.5L T Comfort (R469 900), GS3 EMZOOM 1.5L T Executive (R499 900), and the GS3 EMZOOM 1.5L T R-Style (R549 900).
Additionally, the vehicle comes with a 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/60 000 km service plan with service intervals every 15 000 km.
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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