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
Volvo Car South Africa (VCSA) introduced the refined XC90 to the South African market.
What is it?
It is the brand’s flagship seven-seater SUV build for comfort, safety and sensible efficiency. The refreshed XC90 brings cleaner lines, a calmer cabin and the latest user experience, while preserving the XC90’s practical spirit and long-distance capability, claims Volvo.
Power:
In Pure mode, the XC90 T8 PHEV offers over 70km of electric range on the WLTP Cycle, making many daily trips emission-free. Real-world data indicates that a significant portion of the distance in modern plug-in hybrids is driven on electric power.
For extended journeys, the hybrid powertrain combines the electric system with a petrol engine to deliver a driving range of over 800km.
Locally, the XC90 will continue to be offered with mild-hybrid petrol (B5) options alongside the plug-in hybrid (T8). The B5 variant pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48-volt battery and integrated starter generator (ISG) to reduce fuel use in everyday driving. The engine output is 183kW and 350Nm of torque.
The plug-in hybrid model, the T8 PHEV, delivers combined outputs of 340kW and 709Nm.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to all four wheels.
Interior and exterior updates:
The updated interior features a more horizontal dashboard and new decorative inlays providing a textured, contemporary look. Vertical air vents and ambient lighting add a refined feel after dark. Additional practical changes have been made to the cabin. For example, the centre console now features additional storage and an extra cup holder.
At the same time, the wireless phone charger has been repositioned behind the central tunnel, keeping the main storage area clear. With the second and third rows folded flat, cargo space expands to a generous 1 950 litres, while keeping all three rows in place still offers a practical 301 litres of storage.
For the ultimate luxury experience, the XC90 Ultra is equipped with a Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system, providing an immersive listening experience. A Harmon Kardon Premium Sound system is standard on the Plus trims.
Both the B5 MHEV and T8 PHEV are available in Plus or Ultra trims, providing XC90 buyers with a broad range of choices.
On the outside, Matrix LED headlights are fitted across the range, flanking the redesigned grille.
Prices:
XC90 B5 Plus (R1 555 500), XC90 B5 Ultra (R1 657 500), XC90 T8 PHEV Plus (R1 834 500) and the XC90 T8 PHEV Ultra (R1 936 500).
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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