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
A new chapter begins as the first Lepas L4 vehicles depart Port Taicang in China, bound for South Africa.
This step is signalling the arrival of a bold new era in intelligent, elegant mobility, says the manufacturer that is already in the process of establishing a dealer network in South Africa.
Lepas claims the vehicle is inspired by the sleek agility of the leopard. “The L4 is crafted to command attention. Every curve, every line, and every detail has been shaped with aerodynamic precision and confident poise. This is mobility reimagined, where elegance meets purpose and design speaks with intent,” is the bold claims made.
It is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine with safety and intelligence seamlessly integrated, says Lepas.
Advanced driver-assistance technologies are combined with a rigid, globally compliant safety structure.
As Lepas prepares to launch its premium SUV range in South Africa in the first quarter of 2026, the brand is reinforcing its commitment to an exceptional after-sales ownership experience. Building on the proven service legacy of its parent brand, Chery, Lepas will introduce a comprehensive customer support programme designed to deliver reliability, responsiveness, and peace of mind.
With Chery having established a strong benchmark for customer-focused after-sales service in South Africa, Lepas aims to extend and elevate this standard, ensuring customers receive world-class support throughout their ownership journey, it states.
To celebrate its arrival, Lepas will invite customers to exclusive test-drive weekends in March 2026, offering South African drivers the opportunity to experience the L4.
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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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.