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
Isuzu Motors South Africa launched a new value-orientated version of its mu-X seven-seater sport utility vehicle (SUV), in the form of the all-new 1.9 LS 4x2 AT.
The mu-X range was upgraded recently, and the manufacturer said it was looking at an entry-level model to compete with the more affordable models for Toyota’s Fortuner and Ford’s Everest.
The new budget-friendly derivative, along with the addition of a 4x4 version of the popular 3.0 LSE, expands the local line-up to a total of six mu-X models – the largest range yet for the company. (https://dealerfloor.co.za/product-news/isuzu-ups-the-game-with-its-upgraded-mu-x).
What’s new?
It is the first mu-X fitted with the 1.9 Ddi litre turbo diesel-engine also used in the new Isuzu D-MAX bakkie range.
Engine:
At the heart of the new 1.9 LS mu-X is Isuzu’s 1 899 cc four-cylinder intercooled turbodiesel engine, good for 110 kW and 350 Nm of torque.
As with the rest of the mu-X range, the 1.9 LS is equipped with the latest version of Isuzu’s six-speed automatic transmission. Furthermore, a rear differential lock is fitted as standard to aid traction on slippery surfaces.
Interior and exterior:
The new 1.9 LS mu-X features the latest styling updates applied to the rest of the range for 2023. This includes privacy glass for the rear windows, dark Magnetite finishes for the radiator grille, front and rear bumpers, front fog lamp bezels, roof rails and side steps.
The 1.9 LS leather trim as standard and 18-inch alloy wheels, there are front and rear parking sensors along with a rear-view camera and a number of standard safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, ABS brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and a Brake Assist System (BAS), Brake Override Accelerator (BOA), Hill Start Assist (HAS), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Trailer Sway Control and Cruise Control.
And last but not the least, a seven-inch touchscreen system with integrated Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi and front and rear USB-charging ports are included.
Model Range and prices:
1.9 LS 4x2 AT, new addition, (R708 000), 3.0 LS 4x2 AT (R800 000), 3.0 LS 4x4 AT (R855 000), 3.0 LSE 4x2 AT (R842 800), 3.0 LSE 4x4 AT (new addition), (R927 700) and the 3.0 Onyx 4x4 AT (R960 600).
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
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