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
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has announced that its subsidiary, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd., is launching the all-new Gravite, a 7-seater multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).
The launch marks a new chapter in the India market and underscores Nissan’s commitment to delivering vehicles tailored to meet the diverse needs of local customers, the manufacturer claims. The Gravite will be manufactured locally in Chennai and be offered with an introductory price of 565 000 Indian rupees (R100 000).
The Nissan Gravite is based on Renault’s Triber MPV, one of Renault’s best sellers in the South African market. Unfortunately there seems to be no plan to bring the Nissan Gravite to South Africa.
The Gravite builds off the momentum of the new Nissan Magnite, which is exported from India to several markets, and will join an expanding model lineup that includes the Tekton C-SUV slated for launch in mid-2026, and a 7-seater C-SUV in early 2027.
Exterior:
Elevated proportions, muscular body lines, pronounced wheel arches and high ground clearance create a commanding road presence in the Gravite.
Key exterior highlights include signature C-shaped design elements, piano black grille, signature LED headlamps with integrated DRLS, LED taillamps, roof rails and wide-opening doors designed for enhanced practicality.
Interior:
The Gravite is designed to adapt seamlessly to both daily commuting and longer family journeys. Flexible seating configurations allow accommodation for up to seven occupants, with removable third-row seats expanding luggage capacity to 625 litres.
The Gravite features convenient technology such as a floating 20.3 cm infotainment display with wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ connectivity, wireless device charging, 17.7 cm fully digital advanced multi-functional cluster, auto locking doors and front and rear parking sensors.
It also boasts more than 30 standard safety features such as an Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Brake Assist System (BAS) and ABS with EBD.
Engine:
Power is provided by a 1-liter petrol engine outputting 53kW and 96Nm torque. It is offered with a choice between a 5-speed manual or 5-speed EZ-shift automated manual transmission (AMT).
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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Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
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