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
The new Transit Van 350 LWB is the latest addition to Ford’s commercial vehicle line-up, providing an adaptable vehicle that is designed to serve the diverse needs of business and fleet customers across various industries.
What is new?
With a total load volume of 13m3, it can accommodate up to four Euro pallets and the rest of the vehicles are revamped for better performance and comfort. The versatile platform allows Ford to compete effectively in the medium and long-haul delivery market, and also opens opportunities in specialised fields where it can be configured as a mobile laboratory, ambulance or field service vehicle, Ford states.
Practicality:
The load compartment has a maximum floor length of 3 200mm and can accommodate a payload of up to 1 325kg.
Access to the load area is through twin rear barn doors that can open up to 180 degrees, along with a single kerbside load door. Customers can opt for the Delivery Assist Package, which comprises side loading doors, a close assist function for the side doors and keyless entry and start.
Engine:
The Transit Van 350 LWB is equipped with Ford’s 2.0-litre Single Turbo EcoBlue diesel engine, delivering 121kW of power and 390Nm of torque.
Power is transmitted to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission that uses a rotary shifter with four selectable Drive Modes – Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul and Slippery.
Technology and safety
Inside is an eight-inch configurable digital instrument cluster and 12-inch multifunctional touchscreen display that provides intuitive access to Ford’s SYNC®4 infotainment system.
FordPass functionality is provided via the integrated 5G modem, which enables numerous functions such as Remote Start, Scheduled Start, Vehicle Health Checks, Vehicle Locator and the ability to remotely lock and unlock the doors – all via the FordPass smartphone app. Additionally, there is a USB-charging port and an auxiliary 12V power socket in the cabin to power a range of devices.
A suite of driver-assistance systems come standard, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist, Rollover Mitigation, ABS brakes and Tyre Pressure Monitoring.
Price:
Transit Van 350 LWB (R1 000 000).
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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