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- Industry News
- 4 March 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.
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.