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 turbo-engined Subaru Outback will be the new flagship of the big Scooby range with the introduction of the XT derivative to the local line-up now consisting of three models.
What’s new?
The return of a turbo engine to the Outback range is the big news with more than a decent amount of power as we have come to expect of a Subaru, especially in the flagship.
Engine:
The XT is powered by a new 2.4-litre, turbocharged BOXER® engine that delivers 183 kW and 350 Nm of torque. The current range’s normally aspirated 2.5-litre engine delivers 138 kW and 245 Nm.
The new engine is the same one from the WRX model. The engine is paired with a lightweight Lineartronic® CVT driving all 4 wheels via Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The vehicle’s 0 – 100 km time has also been improved to 7.5-seconds, according to Subaru.
Exterior:
Aesthetically, the Subaru Outback XT is differentiated by new 18-inch black alloy wheels.
The Subaru XT is available in nine body colours: Autumn Green Metallic (new); Crystal White Pearl; Ice Silver Metallic; Magnetite Grey Metallic; Storm Grey Metallic; Crystal Black Silica; Crimson Red Pearl; Dark Blue Pearl and Brilliant Bronze Metallic (new).
Interior and tech:
The Outback XT remains feature-filled and brimming with the latest Subaru technology on offer. The latest generation of EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is a key feature on the new Subaru Outback XT, now with a wider field of view and smarter control software.
The system can detect other vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians from further afield and within a wider area. EyeSight® Driver Assist also allows for smarter Adaptive Cruise functions with speed limit recognition, Lane Centring and Lane Keep Assist.
As with the other Outback models, other key features include Subaru’s innovative Driver Monitoring System and DriverFocus™ Distraction Mitigation System as well as the convenient hands-free tailgate opening function.
The portrait orientated 11.6-inch infotainment system now comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a feature that will be offered on all new MY2023 Outback models going forward.
Price:
Subaru Outback 2.5i-Field ES (R779 000), Subaru Outback 2.5i-Touring ES (R829 000) and the new Subaru Outback XT (R959 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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