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
OMODA South Africa has announced the official market introduction of the luxurious new OMODA C9, with this highly anticipated flagship model available from launch in two generously equipped derivatives.
What is it?
The upmarket OMODA C9 is offered in both front- (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) forms and will be on the top of the current Omoda range.
Exterior:
The OMODA C9 FWD derivative boasts a lengthy list of standard equipment, including items such as 20-inch alloy wheels with red brake callipers, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate.
Interior:
Inside you will find a surfeit of equipment, including black leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats (with heating and ventilation), a heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control, the last-mentioned replete with a dedicated control panel and vents for the second row.
Other standout features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen (combined as a single curved display), an 8-speaker Sony sound system, wireless smartphone charging, a head-up display, parking sensors (front and rear), a 540-degree camera system, multi-colour ambient cabin lighting and a myriad of highly advanced driver-assistance safety features.
Engine:
As OMODA’s flagship model, the innovative OMODA C9 is set apart, not only by its award-winning avant-garde exterior design but also by its powerful turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine, which delivers 192 kW and 400 Nm via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Pricing:
OMODA C9 FWD (R785 900 (limited-time launch price of R760 000) and OMODA C9 AWD – R885 900 (limited-time launch price of R860 000).
The new OMODA C9 comes standard with a 7-year/100 000 km service plan, a 7-year/200 000 km vehicle warranty as well as an industry-leading 10-year/1 000 000 km engine warranty (for the first owner).
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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