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
JAC Motors is taking the fight to its competitors with newly launched T6 2.0L CTi 1-tonne single-cab bakkie that made its local debut and joins the manufacturer’s existing bakkie range in the country.
What is it?
The new bakkie is a single cab workhorse aimed at the needs of big transport operators and entrepreneurs. JAC has kept comfort in mind with two well specked versions, namely the T6 Comfort and Lux.
Engine:
Under the bonnet is the brand’s well-known 2-litre turbodiesel mill delivering 102kW and torque of 320Nm. The engine has also been used in the T8 range since 2023.
It is paired to a 6-speed manual transmission, the powerplant delivers all available torque across its powerband and JAC claims an average fuel consumption of 6.9L/100km. With a 76-litre tank the bakkie provides an approximate range of over 1 100 kilometres.
Suspension:
The single-cab features a double-wishbone independent front suspension with coil springs and a rear leaf-spring suspension, delivering improved handling, reduced body roll, and enhanced passenger comfort, especially when laden, says JAC.
Dimensions:
It is built on a galvanised ladder-frame chassis with integral rear bridge support. It measures 5 315mm in length, 1 830mm in width, and 1 815mm in height, with a 3 090mm wheelbase, 197mm of ground clearance and a 6.2-metre turning radius and a payload of 1 000kg.
Specifications:
The newcomer features include power steering, air-conditioning, electric windows and a height-adjustable, leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel.
Dual airbags, front disc and rear drum brakes, along with 4-channel ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), ensure safety for the driver, passenger and cargo.
Additional features include electrically adjustable side mirrors with indicators, a high-mounted stop lamp, rear fog lamps, and a headlight levelling function.
Also available is an immobiliser, multi-information display, remote keyless entry, central locking with speed-sensing door locks and rear park distance sensors. The Lux adds a reverse camera and leatherette trim, while both derivatives include a centre armrest and storage behind and beneath the seats.
The T6 Lux features a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The T6 Comfort features a radio/MP3 player with Bluetooth.
Prices:
T6 2.0L CTi 4×2 Comfort (R299 900) and the T6 2.0L CTi 4×2 Lux (R314 900).
The T6 4x4 derivatives will launch mid-year, expanding options for buyers who require off-road capability in their bakkies, says JAC.
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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