The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists has unveiled the 30 semi-finalists competing for the 40th edition of the 2026 Car of the Year title, representing 22 brands across multiple vehicle segments.
The prestigious competition, held annually since 1986, saw 55 new models qualify for the 2026 edition. Following voting by SAGMJ members, 30 semi-finalists have been selected, with the 25-juror panel now voting to establish the finalists. Old Mutual Insure returns as title sponsor for the competition, which launched in early November.
Thami Masemola, Chairman of the COTY competition since 2024, said it was a tremendous honour to be part of this significant milestone in SAGMJ's annual competition. He noted that the stakes are higher than ever, driven by intense rivalry for the hearts and minds of South African car buyers.
The 30 semi-finalists include the Alfa Romeo Junior, Audi A5, Audi RS Q8, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, BYD Dolphin Surf, BYD Shark, Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV, Chery Tiggo 9, GWM Haval H7, Honda Amaze, Hyundai Alcazar, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jaecoo J5, Jetour T2, Land Rover Defender OCTA, Leapmotor C10 REEV, Lexus GX, Mercedes-AMG CLE 53, Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid, Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E, MG Cyberster, MG ZS Pro, MINI Aceman, Omoda C7, Opel Grandland, Renault Duster, Suzuki Dzire, Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI, Volkswagen Tayron and the Volvo EX90.
The qualifying vehicles span compact hatchbacks, family SUVs, performance saloons and bakkies. The surge in new-energy vehicles entering the South African market in 2025 has expanded customer choice significantly.
In January 2026, the jury will select finalists before conducting an intensive two-day testing process in March, scoring each contender to determine category winners. The overall winner will be crowned in May 2026.
Staff Writer
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