For the first time in the 40-year history of South Africa’s Car of the Year competition, a Chinese brand has claimed the overall crown. T4
The Jetour T2 emerged as the 2026 winner, marking a milestone moment for the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) and signalling the growing influence of Chinese manufacturers in the local market.
The Jetour T2, one of 18 vehicles competing across categories, also secured victory in the Mild Adventure segment, outperforming the Hyundai Santa Fe, BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrid bakkie and GWM Haval H7 hybrid SUV. Another Chinese success came in the Family (on-road) category, where the Omoda C7 triumphed over rivals including the Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV, Leapmotor C10 REEV, Opel Grandland and Volkswagen Tayron.
In the Compact category, the Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI impressed judges with its blend of turbocharged performance and efficiency, beating the Alfa Romeo Junior, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and BYD Dolphin Surf. The Adventure category was a duel between the Land Rover Defender OCTA and Lexus GX, with the Defender OCTA taking honours thanks to its hyper-performance credentials.
The Premium category saw the Audi A5 prevail over the Volvo EX90, Hyundai Santa Fe and Lexus GX, while Audi also celebrated in the Performance category, where its RS Q8 super-SUV claimed the accolade ahead of the Land Rover Defender OCTA and Alfa Romeo Junior.
The Chery Tiggo 7 added to the Chinese brands’ strong showing by winning the Old Mutual Insure Motor Enthusiast “People’s Choice” Award, voted for by the public. Praised for its design, equipment levels and value for money, it remains a firm favourite among South African motorists.
Thami Masemola, Chairperson of the SA COTY competition, hailed the winners of this landmark 40th edition, while SAGMJ Chairperson Mabuyane Mabuza emphasised the event’s role as a benchmark for automotive excellence in South Africa since its inception in 1986.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.
