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
Following the introduction of the C5 Luxury X and Elegance X trims earlier this year, OMODA & JAECOO South Africa are now enhancing the Style and Street derivatives with a series of upgrades.
What is new?
The updates on the Chinese manufacturer’s crossover and SUV ranges now deliver more power, with new transmission options, elevated specifications and a notable boost in performance.
Engines:
The new Street+ now delivers a substantial increase in output, with power rising from 83kW to 115kW and torque climbing from 138Nm to 230Nm, thanks to the familiar turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine used throughout the C5 line-up. Power is channelled to the front wheels through a CVT (continuously variable transmission).
Interior and equipment:
While positioned as the entry point for the C5 line-up, the Street+ boasts an impressive list of standard features. Highlights include 17-inch alloy wheels, heated door mirrors and a black cloth-trimmed interior.
Comfort and convenience are enhanced with air-conditioning, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, a rear-view camera and cruise control, all fitted as standard. Keyless entry and push-button start further add to the ease of use.
The infotainment system is comprehensive, featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity. The audio experience has also been enhanced, with the previous four-speaker arrangement upgraded to six speakers.
Further up in the C5 range, updates have been made to the Style trim. This grade has been brought stylistically in line with the Luxury X and Elegance X models introduced in April 2025 and now adopts the ‘X’ designation as well. The CVT has been replaced by a dual-clutch transmission.
Other changes:
Furthermore, drivers can now choose between three driving modes, namely Eco, Normal and Sport. Beneath the sleeker, sportier exterior, OMODA has also introduced mechanical upgrades to the C5 Style X, including a multilink rear suspension set-up that replaces the torsion beam set-up previously used on the outgoing Style derivative.
Updates have been made to the specification level, with the halogen headlights replaced by LEDs that not only give the C5 Style X a more premium appearance but also enhance nighttime visibility. The Style X builds on the Street+ specification with a leather-trimmed steering wheel, sports seats and several other comfort-focused upgrades.
Like the Luxury X and Elegance X models, the Style X also benefits from a larger boot, which has increased in size from 378 to 442 litres. With the second-row seats folded flat, total load capacity increases to 1 149 litres.
Prices:
Street+ (R339 900), Style X (R374 900), Luxury X (R425 900) and the Elegance X (R465 900).
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