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
The Lexus coupé is now available as the LC 500h hybrid, and it benefits from a series of improvements and innovations compared to the previous model.
The result is an evolution in the model’s luxury motoring qualities, from its ride, handling and responsiveness to its comfort and multimedia functionality.
What’s new?
It is not about the small tweaks here and there, but what is under the bonnet, namely a hybrid system connected to 3.5-litre petrol V6-engine.
Performance:
At the heart of the LC 500h is its advanced hybrid powertrain featuring a 220 kW 3.5-litre V6 engine and Lexus’s Multi-Stage Hybrid System. Total system output is 264 kW.
The Multi-Stage Hybrid System is one of the most significant technical advances yet developed by Lexus. It overturns the traditional “eco” perception of hybrid powertrains to deliver authentic high performance. In essence, the system uses a multi-stage shift device to amplify engine and electric motor output in four stages, making use of the full range of engine speeds.
Lexus increased maximum engine speed from 6 000 to 6 600 r/min, while the 0-100 km/h acceleration time remains at five seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h. While the V6 itself is smooth and very quiet, it is less thirsty during throttle openings, helping the driver to save fuel.
Exterior:
The spindle grille is finished in chrome and has a mesh design with a visual tension that changes as it spreads across the front of the car. The unique LC lighting signature is created by independent daytime running lights in an arrowhead configuration and ultra-compact triple LED headlamp units.
It features 21-inch run flat forged alloy wheels and a boot spoiler with a retractable wing and a carbon-fibre roof.
Interior:
The LC 500h comes standard with a 12.3-inch high-resolution split-screen display that allows access to the audio, climate controls and the navigation system. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also standard for seamless connectivity coupled with a full-colour head-up display.
Convenience features that have been adopted by the vehicle include Head-Up Display, seat lumbar support, tyre inflation pressure warning, EMV & navigation system, Panoramic View Monitor and Driver and Passenger seat heaters.
Price:
The Lexus LC 500h coupé retails for R 2 542 800, and like all Lexus models, boasts a 7-year/105 000 km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. It has an additional 8-year/195 000 km hybrid battery warranty.
The Lexus LC 500h coupé is available on a customer order basis only at Lexus dealerships across South Africa.
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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