2025 SA Car of the Year Semi-Finalists Announced!
The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) has revealed the semi-finalists for the 2025 SA Car of the Year (COTY) competition, showcasing the best new vehicles launched in South Africa during 2024.
This prestigious competition, now in its 39th year, awards the top honors to vehicles across a range of categories, ultimately crowning the overall SA Car of the Year. This year, a record number of 37 new models made it into the running, with 29 being chosen as semi-finalists.
A Truly Diverse Field of Contenders
The diversity of the 2025 COTY semi-finalist list is impressive, spanning from budget-friendly hatchbacks like the Suzuki Swift to performance hybrid saloons like the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance. The list also includes a significant number of models from emerging Chinese brands like GAC, GWM, Chery, and Jaecoo, highlighting the growing influence of these manufacturers in the South African market.
- BMW 1 Series
- BMW 5 Series Sedan
- BMW M5
- BMW X3
- Chery Tiggo Cross
- Citroën C3 Aircross
- Ford Mustang GT
- Ford Territory
- GAC EMKOO
- GAC GS3 EMZOOM
- GWM P500 HEV
- GWM Tank 300
- GWM Tank 500
- Honda CR-V
- Honda Elevate
- Hyundai Exter
- Jaecoo J7
- Mahindra XUV 3XO
- Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance
- Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class (E 220d)
- MINI Countryman
- Mitsubishi Triton
- Omoda C9
- Suzuki Swift
- Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
- Toyota Starlet Cross
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Volvo EX30
This year’s competition will once again feature categories to better reflect the diversity of the South African automotive market. The final 20 finalists will be announced in January, after which the SAGMJ jury will test and score the contenders over a two-day period.
What to Expect Next
Stay tuned to News24 Motoring and the SAGMJ for updates on the 2025 COTY competition, including the announcement of the finalists and the ultimate winner in March 2025. Who will take home the coveted title?