South African Guild of Motoring Journalists Archives

Toyota Wins the Most Awards in SA Car of the Year Competition

vuyi on October 8, 2021

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is proud to have won three categories in the 2021 South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) Car of the Year competition.

In the Budget classification, Starlet came out tops, with the legendary Land Cruiser Prado scoring the number-one spot in the Adventure SUV category while SA’s favourite bakkie – Hilux – won Double Cab of the year. The latter also claimed second place overall, beating 21 other finalists across the nine categories.

The competition was open to vehicles that were launched in South Africa between November 2019 and April 2021. Due to COVID-19 related restrictions, it was also the first time that the scoring was done completely electronically (there were no official test days in which all the finalists could be evaluated at the same facility by the jurors). The scoring was based on the jurors’ experiences testing the vehicles throughout the year.

The fact that we have won three categories with vastly different models is testament to our diverse offering.

– Leon Theron, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at TSAM

According to Toyota South Africa, it’s category winners – Prado, Starlet and Hilux – have been performing remarkably well on the local sales charts. The Prado has been averaging around 90 units a month while the Starlet and Hilux have cumulatively sold more than 6 000 and 25 000 units respectively since the beginning of the year.

“We are truly grateful for the recognition received from the local media. The fact that we have won three categories with vastly different models is testament to our diverse offering – providing our customers with as many options as possible,” said Leon Theron, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at TSAM.

Photo Cred: Cornell van Heedern

Peugeot 2008 SUV is crowned South African Car of the Year 2021

vuyi on October 6, 2021

The Peugeot 2008 SUV is the 2021 South African Car of the Year, beating 23 finalists in the prestigious competition. The announcement was made by the South Africa Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) this morning.

The dynamic and distinctive cross-over held its head proudly above South Africa’s motoring best to take the overall title. Along the way it was also honoured with the 2021 Jurors Excellence Award and beat out five strong competitors in the hotly contested Compact Family category, one of the most contested groups in this year’s competition.

We’re naturally delighted by the recognition by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists of our exciting Peugeot 2008 SUV

Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa

There were six nominees in the category, including Hyundai’s Creta crossover, Toyota’s Corolla Sedan, the Volkswagen T-Roc, Kia Seltos, and the Mazda CX-30.

The Peugeot 2008 allows families to escape the ordinary, the versatile SUV designed firmly with lifestyle intentions. Next generation technology, a selection of powerful, fuel-efficient engines and dynamic, appealing styling all contributed to the car being recognised for the SAGMJ’s accolade.

“We’re naturally delighted by the recognition by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists of our exciting Peugeot 2008 SUV,” said Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa. “We believe the car certainly deserves it. It’s been a major success for customers and we’re proud of the results it’s achieving thanks to major efforts from our Stellantis and dealer teams.”

The accolade is the second for Stellantis from the SAGMJ this year, the new company being recognised in June as the most-admired car company in the country.

With its fluid and robust lines, the all-new Peugeot 2008 SUV delivers masterful power and efficiency. Its striking front grille, horizontal bonnet, and raised ground clearance enhance the sophisticated and sharp design. At the rear, the spoiler, gloss black rear cluster connecting strip, and chrome exhaust affirm its sporty, tenacious personality.

“The Competition has taken on a whole different meaning over the last 18 months,” said Ramsoomar. “Every car maker has fought gallantly and is worthy of congratulations, but especially to the other category winners and all the finalists.”

There were 23 finalists in the running for this year’s awards across nine categories. Stellantis featured twice amongst the nominees, the new generation Opel Corsa ranking in the Compact category.

Stellantis South Africa scoops first ever Most Admired Car Company Award

vuyi on July 14, 2021

Stellantis South Africa has been recognized as the most-admired car company in the country by the South Africa Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ).

Stellantis South Africa has been recognised as the most-admired car company in the country by the South Africa Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ). The accolade was announced at the media group’s Annual General Meeting on 26 June.

Awarded for the first time in the SAGMJ’s 59-year history, the accolade recognises Stellantis’ professionalism and commitment to customers and media alike across all its brands.

Stellantis is the result of a historic merger of equals (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Peugeot S.A. ‘Groupe PSA’) in one of the largest motor industry deals in the last decade. Combining two strong business entities with diverse backgrounds, wide-ranging talents, and inspiring heritage has created a broad-based platform of iconic brands to exceed customer expectations.

We’re delighted by the South African media’s recognition and admiration of Stellantis
– Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa

As a result, Stellantis is now a major motor industry force in the South African landscape. Representing 72 dealerships across the country selling eight brands (Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, Fiat, Fiat Professional, Jeep, Opel and Peugeot) and there are growth plans to open 12 new facilities by the end of the year.

“We’re delighted by the South African media’s recognition and admiration of Stellantis,” said Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa. “Not only is the media an important constituency for us, enabling us to get our story out to South African consumers and industry stakeholders, but it is a proud endorsement for us of the efforts that go into creating the ultimate customer experience across our brands.”

All the brands in the global Stellantis stable

Speaking at the SAGMJ’s AGM, Chairman Carl Wepener cited Stellantis’ professional managerial style and incredible knowledge displayed during all launches, the company’s commitment to journalists and customers alike, and passionate commitment to all the brands in the group amongst the criteria considered for the award.

“Stellantis’ vision to become a globally recognised entity in South Africa and their management’s commitment to going the extra mile to ensure that journalists are informed of the long-term strategies envisaged, contributed to the success of the Stellantis brand introduction into the local market,” said Carl Wepener, Chairman, SAGJM. “The professional conduct and attention given by senior management to every journalist, irrespective of stature and seniority, when attending vehicle launches as well as granting interviews is a sign of their dedication.”

CAR REVIEW: Is The New Honda Ballade A Gem Or Cubic Zirconia?

vuyi on May 3, 2021

I remember the original Honda Ballade featured headlights that folded down flush with the bonnet and everyone thought it the height of elegance at the time.
– MICHELLE YORK, GM SOUTH AFRICAN GUILD OF MOTORING JOURNALISTS & FREELANCER FOR DRIVING IN HEELS

I remember the original Honda Ballade from the ’80s with headlights that folded down flush with the bonnet. Everyone thought it the height of elegance and the Ballade soon became one of Honda’s most iconic and successful models. Almost 4 decades later and a name change detour via Civic that I won’t delve into, the 8^thGeneration Honda Ballade is back with a 3-model line-up – Comfort, Elegance, and the range-topping RS.

The RS moniker refers to “Road Sailing” and not, as one might think, to a more powerful engine
– MICHELLE YORK, GM SOUTH AFRICAN GUILD OF MOTORING JOURNALISTS & FREELANCER FOR DRIVING IN HEELS

The all-new Ballade is an attractive sedan with a sculpted body and striking lines. The front boasts a bold grille design as well as the new slim headlight treatment shared with the larger Honda Civic. The rear lights instantly reminded me of a certain little German car that I am rather fond of. The Ballade has a slightly lower centre of gravity and is marginally larger than its predecessor, all of which translates to impressive road handling.

I had the flagship Honda Ballade RS on test, and I simply had to slip in the word “ship” somewhere because the RS moniker refers to “Road Sailing” and not, as one might think, to a more powerful engine. While the Ballade does have a very capable suspension for our roads, the RS badge might cause a little confusion!

I took the Ballade RS on a drive to the diamond mining town of Cullinan to see if Honda had produced a real gem or cubic zirconia; bearing in mind that it enters the market amidst the likes of the Corolla Quest, VW Polo sedan, Mazda3, and Fiat Tipo. Here’s what I discovered.

The all-new Ballade introduces a new 1.5L DOHC engine with i-VTEC technology and a revised version of Honda’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It has a good road presence and solidly grips through corners giving it a safe overall feel. The CVT is relatively quiet but should you need to unexpectedly accelerate, you’ll be met with the distinctive CVT whine, but this is to be expected. Thankfully the RS comes fitted with paddle shifts, should the automatic gearbox need a little assistance.

I thoroughly enjoyed the new Honda Ballade and was impressed by its excellent fuel consumption, an admirable sales point in a time when the cost of living is soaring

The Ballade RS is an accomplished sedan with good finishes and the usual alphabet of features like ABS, EBD, VSA, etc. There is ample legroom in the front and rear and a generous boot that could easily fit a pram or set of golf clubs.

All models are fitted with ISOFIX child seat anchors making the Ballade a suitable option for those on the market for a capable family car. The all-new Ballade also offers those looking to make the upgrade from a hatchback to a vehicle that has a little more panache than the usual suspects on the market.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the new Honda Ballade and was impressed by its excellent fuel consumption, an admirable sales point in a time when the cost of living is soaring. After my trip to Cullinan, I can confirm that the Honda Ballade is not a cubic zirconia, it’s a little diamond and diamonds are a girl’s best friend after all.

Priced from :

Ballade Comfort 1.5: R 336 500

Ballade Elegance 1.5: R 366 900

Ballade Elegance 1.5: R 396 900

The Honda Ballade range comes standard with a five-year/200 000 warranty, four-year/60 000km, and three-year AA Roadside Assistance.

ABOUT MICHELLE YORK

Michelle York has been in the automotive industry for over 20 years and is the General Manager of the SA Guild of Motoring Journalists, (SAGMJ). When she isn’t test driving cars or cracking the whip at the Guild, Michelle enjoys tinkering about in the garage and is currently converting her incredibly bright yellow minivan into an incredibly bright mini camper van. She has 5 lively dogs of varying shapes and sizes – all of which are jostling to ride shotgun once the van has been completed.

What are Shock Absorbers?

vuyi on October 14, 2020

Your shock absorbers are critical safety components on your car and can be classified into two basic types:

Standalone shocks that attach to the vehicle suspension and frame
Shock-absorber cartridges that are integrated into a suspension strut

Some cars have struts in the front and individual shocks in the rear. If this is the case, it’s possible to replace the rear shocks with the help of a friend who knows what they’re doing, but it’s safer to have your shock absorbers replaced by a professional.

The purpose of Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers limit overall vehicle body movement or sway. They support the springs in your car ensuring they don’t rebound on impact over rough surfaces. In this way they absorb and level out jolts to your car. They also do the job of keeping your tyres in contact with the road at all times.

Symptoms of worn Shocks Absorbers

Your tyres and shocks work together so if your shocks are worn your tyres do not grip the road firmly. As shocks gradually wear out you unconsciously adjust your driving to compensate. You may only notice the decreased efficiency when your car struggles to hold the road while cornering or braking quickly.

Your shock absorbers are worn and require replacement if you experience:

Vibrations while driving
A tapping sound while driving caused by cracked bushing at attachment points
Swerving or nose diving when braking
Longer braking time
Uneven tyre wear
Leaking fluid

What to do about worn Shock Absorbers

New cars are fitted with original equipment shock absorbers while on the auto-manufacturer’s production line and are sourced from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Worn shocks will be replaced by the dealership as long as it is within the vehicle’s warranty period.

If you experience problems after your vehicle’s warranty has expired before the next service is due, visit a reputable auto fitment centre affiliated to the Retail Motor Industry (RMI) and who comply with its codes of conduct and Consumer Protection Act guidelines.

The benefit of fitting shock absorbers at a reliable fitment centre with a national footprint is that should any problems arise, you can have it resolved at any of the branches, wherever you happen to be in the country.

Extract from an article published by SupaQuick South Africa

What You Should Know About Brake Discs

vuyi on October 13, 2020

Disc brake pads are safety critical.Damaged or worn brake pads cause slow braking and severe wear can make it almost impossible for a car to come to a stop.

Why Are Disc Brake Pads Used in Cars?

Disc brake pads are contained within brake callipers (represented in red in the illustration below). The callipers push against the rotor (disc) when hydraulically squeezed, using friction to slow down or stop your vehicle.

Braking System image courtesy of Supa Quick

Brake pads need to be robust to perform their task and are manufactured using steel for the backing plate. Fibres, metal particles, and bonding material is woven, moulded or sintered into friction material.

What Causes Wear and Tear in Disc Brake Pads?

Worn disc brake pads are caused by:

Negligent and thoughtless driving – Rapid acceleration, Constant hard braking and over loading vehicles increases the rate of brake pad wear.
Fitting poor quality disc brake pads – Everyday driving creates excess dust as a result of the increased wear rate of inferior brake pads. This causes brakes to squeak. Poor quality disc brake pads do not perform as well as they should, and reduced performance could have dire consequences.

What Are the Symptoms of Worn Disc Pads?

Brake disc pads tend to indicate wear and tear long before this becomes a problem. Early diagnosis can save you money and keep you safe. Signals from worn brake pads are relayed through the sensor to a display on the dashboard. Subsequent warning signs include:

Squeaking or scraping brakes – When brake pads are worn, they come into direct contact with the brake discs (also known as rotors), causing a scraping sound.
Pedal vibrations – Worn disc brake pads touch the rotor sending vibrations to the pedal.
Brake pedal indicators – Brake pedal feel hard, spongy or require greater pressure to stop the car.
Slower braking response – Worn disc brake pads cannot slow the vehicle down quickly enough

What to do when Brake Discs and Brake Pads are Worn

Disc brake pads and brake discs could last around 40,000 km to 50,000 km depending on driving habits and conditions. Skimming of brake discs may also be necessary, and if required would extend the life of your new brake pads, thereby saving you money. Depending on your driving habits and road conditions, brake disc replacement should be considered with every two to three brake pad replacements.

The Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) determines when you need to change your disc brake pads. However, according to Retail Motor Industry (RMI) developments, you may challenge your dealership when taking your car for a service and only replace disc brake pads when necessary and not according to a pre-determined schedule.

Article courtesy of SupaQuick South Africa

Motoring Journalist Brenwin Naidu Joins World Car Awards Panel

vuyi on July 13, 2020

Motoring journalist Brenwin Naidu has been admitted to the jury panel of the prestigious World Car Awards competition.

He is one of four South Africans to serve on the judging panel of the organisation, joining highly respected automotive journalists Hannes Oosthuizen (Cars.co.za), Charleen Clarke (freelancer) and Lerato Matebese (Driven).

Inaugurated in 2003 and officially launched in 2004, World Car Awards is a non-profit organisation designed to acknowledge and celebrate new standards across the spectrum of new passenger vehicles – with the overall World Car of the Year title being the most coveted in the suite of accolades.

According to the 2020 media report by leading research and analysis firm Cision Insights, it is the number one awards programme of its kind, a plaudit it has held for the last eight consecutive years.

Naidu currently holds the position of Section Editor for the Sowetan Motoring and Sunday Times Lifestyle Motoring titles, published weekly and monthly respectively.

The former remains in the top 10 national print publications with the biggest circulations, while the latter lays claim to being the largest-circulating English-language print title in the country. Both are regarded as household names and are further bolstered by formidable online footprints.

In addition, the 27-year-old is a familiar face as a contributor to Ignition GT, the flagship magazine show of Ignition TV, DStv channel 189, the only 24/7 motoring channel in Southern Africa.

The Sowetan, Sunday Times and Ignition TVare owned by Arena Holdings (Pty) Ltd. The automotive offerings by the company also include Business Day Motor Newsand the TimesLIVE Motoringportal.

“I am grateful for the vote of confidence from the Executive Committee Director and Steering Committee of World Car Awards, the opportunity to contribute at the very pinnacle of automotive excellence awards initiatives is a true honour,” Naidu said.

“South Africa deserves representation on the global stage. It is worth remembering that as many as nine of the biggest carmakers in the world have well-established manufacturing and assembly facilities on local soil, catering to markets on the African continent and beyond.”

“Our relevance is also evidenced in the sheer breadth and diversity of the new vehicle market, which surely has to rank among the widest for any country: from the budget-focussed compact A-segment, to the most exclusive prestige marques, there are few brands that do not feature on the local scene.”

“Lastly, our country is home to some of the finest driving roads on the planet, backgrounded by immense natural beauty – and we simply must boast about our numerous iconic racing circuits, renowned on an international scale.”

Denis Droppa, Group Motoring Editor at Arena Holdings and Editor-In-Chief of Business Day Motor News said: “We are proud to have Brenwin Naidu selected as a World Car Awards juror. His deep automotive knowledge and his passion for motoring journalism will make him an asset to this prestigious competition.”

The official launch of the 2021 instalment of the World Car Awards will happen via virtual ceremony on August 26. From September 2020 to January 2021, the testing and scoring process is underway, culminating in the World Car Finals in February. This will be followed by the announcement of the Top Three in the World on March 2, with the winners scheduled to be revealed on March 31.

Since 2018 Naidu has served on the judging panel of the Cars.co.za Awards sponsored by vehicle and asset financier, WesBank. He remains a full member of the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists (SAGMJ) and was the 2017 recipient of the coveted Bridgestone Steve Dlamini Award for Excellence in Motoring Journalism. The accolade recognises promising young achievers, honouring the legacy of Steve Dlamini, one of the first black motoring editors in South Africa, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle collision in 2009.

Jaguar I-PACE wins 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year

vuyi on July 8, 2020

The Jaguar I-PACE EV400 AWD SE is the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year!

This is the first time that the competition has been won by a Jaguar and also the first win by an electric car.

The accolade is the latest in a long line of victories for the all-electric I-PACE. It won the 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year and World Green Car awards (the I-PACE was the first model ever to win three World Car titles in the 15-year history of the awards). It also claimed the European Car of Year title last year.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE400d 4Matic was placed second while the Toyota GR Supra 3.0T came third.

The win by a Jaguar and an electric car were two firsts for the contest, which is organised by the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists. Given the lockdown, the winner of the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year was announced during a virtual awards ceremony that was streamed live – this was another first for the AutoTrader South African Car of the Year.

Performance Car: Toyota GR Supra 3.0T
Performance Car: Toyota GR Supra 3.0T

There are a number of category winners in the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year, and these winners were announced as well.

Watch the 2020 Auto Trader South African Car of the Year Announcement

The winner in the Urban Category was the Hyundai Atos 1.1 Motion. This category covers compact budget-friendly passenger vehicles that are ideal for in-town driving. Buyers of these cars typically rate practicality over luxury and performance.

The next category – Family – is especially popular. It consists of mid-size sedans. Buyers of these vehicles expect quality, practicality and comfort –with an element of advanced handling dynamics thrown into the equation. The winner in this category was the Toyota Corolla Hatch 1.2T XR CVT.

URBAN CATEGORY WINNER: HYUNDAI ATOS 1.1 MOTION
URBAN CATEGORY WINNER: HYUNDAI ATOS 1.1 MOTION

Family: Toyota Corolla Hatch 1.2T XR CVT

The third category – Leisure – was won by the Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0 TSI Comfortline 85kW DSG. This category covers sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs). Owners of these SUVs and MPVs enjoy the freedom of driving both on and off-road. This – combined a high seating position and flexible cargo space – makes this a popular category amongst the buying public.

Leisure: Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0 TSI Comfortline 85kW DSG

The Lifestyle Utility Vehicles Category was won by the Ford Ranger Raptor. These vehicles typically offer supreme 4×4 ability and can be either an SUV or a single or double-cab bakkie.

The highly contested Premium Car Category was won by the overall winner, namely the Jaguar I-PACE EV400 AWD SE. Buyers of these prestigious mid to large vehicles want powerful engines, luxury features and high-end trim options.

The Premium SUV Category caters for vehicles that offer a combination of versatility, comfort, style and performance both on- and off the road. Boasting genuine 4×4 ability without low range, these vehicles are luxurious, spacious and refined. This category was won by the Mercedes-Benz GLE400d 4Matic.

The final category – sport/performance – was won by the Toyota GR Supra 3.0T. Whether it’s a sportier flagship of an existing passenger range or a pure stand-alone model, vehicles in this category have one common trait: superior performance. Accordingly, thoroughbred sports cars are included in this category.

The South African Car of the Year trophy, which has been awarded since 1986, is the country’s most highly respected and sought-after motoring accolade. While the competition has evolved over the years (categories were only introduced recently), one thing has remained true to the contest; it celebrates and rewards automotive excellence. Both the category and overall winners are considered to be benchmarks within their categories. The 2020 competition was no exception, with many of the winners having already achieved international acclaim.

The Know How About The Tread On Your Tyres

vuyi on June 25, 2020

The choice between an illegal, worn out tyre and a safe tyre could be a matter of life and death especially when you consider the various terrains and conditions we drive on.

This is especially relevant when we get flash rains that make the road surface slippery or drive over spillings. Although second hand, worn out tyres appear to be a more cost effective solution, they reduce the performance of a vehicle by increasing stopping distances, raising the risk of skidding and increasing the risk of blow outs.

At the launch of Transport Month in October 2019, President Cyril Ramaphosa said, “It pains me that our country continues to experience around 14,000 road deaths each year.”

“With over 60% of second hand tyres in South Africa deemed illegal, road users need to understand the dangers of driving using unsafe, worn out tyres. “Unsafe second hand tyres as well as worn out tyres are one of the major culprits that cause fatal consequences for road users, especially when one considers that the only component of the vehicle which, at any given point, makes contact with the surface of the road, is the tyre,” stated Darren Hayes-Powell, Group Managing Director at Goodyear South Africa.

Transport plays a critical role in sustaining our economy and commuting people to various destinations, therefore it is of utmost importance that we focus on the condition of tyres, the critical component that keeps the vehicle moving.

“It pains me that our country continues to experience around 14,000 road deaths each year.”
– President Cyril Ramaphosa

A simple tyre check at the end of each week will ensure you keep on top of the safety and wear performance of your tyres. As you park, move the steering wheel to the left or right to expose the front tyres when you exit the vehicle. This will give you easy access and view of your front tyres. It is also important you look at your rear tyres as they may also wear differently depending on how you drive.

These simple checks can ensure that you keep yourself, your passengers as well as the pedestrians around you safe as you drive.

Darren Hayes-Powell, concluded by saying, “Always make sure that your tyres are in good condition, that they are not worn out and if you are buying a second hand tyre, make sure that the tread wear indicator is visible, and it is below the tread across the whole tyre and there is no bulging on the side of the tyres. Adopt the habit of parking your car with the front tyres at an angle to make it easier to check their tread depth. This simple exercise, combined with a stringent quality check, can be the thin line between life and death.”

Meet the 2020 AutoTrader Car of the Year Semi-Finalists

vuyi on June 25, 2020

South Africa’s premiere motoring journalists have voted. So too have members of the public. The votes have been tallied and 25 semi-finalists have been announced for the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year competition.

One of these semi-finalists will win the most sought-after title in the South African automotive industry, that of 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year.

“The 25 vehicles hail from 16 different car manufacturers, and they include anything and everything from family runabouts to sports cars, and from luxurious sports utility vehicles (SUVs) to bakkies,” reveals Rubin van Niekerk, chairman of the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists (SAGMJ).

Some of the vehicles on the list have already won major international accolades. The Jaguar I-Pace, for instance, made history when it won an unprecedented three awards – World Car of the Year, World Green Car and World Car Design of the Year – at the 2019 World Car Awards. “Were it to win the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year title, it would be the first electric car to take top honours in the 34-year old competition,” notes AutoTrader CEO, George Mienie.

In most competitions around the world, journalists don’t get together to physically drive the vehicles
– GEORGE MIENE, CEO – AUTOTRADER

The Mazda3 has recently been named Supreme Winner at the 2019 Women’s World Car of the Year Awards. It also scooped the 2019 Thailand Car of the Year and the 2020 China Car of the Year trophies, while the Toyota Corolla has recently been named a 2020 European Car of the Year finalist.

AutoTrader became the title sponsor for the competition, organised by the SAGMJ, in 2019 – and it has facilitated the successful consumer vote. According to Mienie, public interest in the competition is intense. “This year, the number of public votes by AutoTrader’s car buying consumers has more than doubled. This is a clear indication that South Africans want to have their say in these top motoring awards,” he comments.

And which vehicle did they vote for? “Of all the semi-finalists, the car that received the most public votes was the Mazda3,” Mienie reveals.

Now that the semi-finalists have been named, voting for the finalists will commence; for the first time in the competition’s history, consumers will be able to vote alongside motoring experts. A special event in Johannesburg on December 4 will reveal which cars make up the 14 finalists.

This event will be followed by the test days in March 2020, when 27 of South Africa’s top motoring journalists (our Editor, Vuyi Mpofu being among them) will put the vehicles through their paces. According to Van Niekerk, this is one of the most important components of the competition. “In most competitions around the world, journalists don’t get together to physically drive the vehicles. They simply score them electronically or on paper. In South Africa however, journalists spend two full days evaluating every single aspect of each finalist – from design, technology and engineering to handling, safety and value for money; followed by the final scoring. Our methodology is both thorough and extremely scientific, and yields the most deserving category and overall winners,” he added.

Commenting on the list of Finalists, Vuyi said she was delighted to see the Mahindra in the running, adding that the brand had worked hard to establish itself in the market, “Making it onto the list is not only a huge vote of confidence for Mahindra, but also a clear demonstration that even though South Africans are extremely particular about the brands they drive, they are fair and open to acknowledging vehicles which are not ‘main-stream’.

The category and overall winners will be announced at an event hosted by AutoTrader in April 2020. Herewith a list of the 2020 AutoTrader South African Car of the Year semi-finalists

Audi A1

Audi Q3

BMW 3 Series

BMW 8 Series

BMW X5

Citroën C3 Aircross

Ford Ranger

Ford Ranger Raptor

Hyundai Atos

Hyundai Santa Fe

Jaguar I-PACE

Kia Sportage

Mahindra XUV300

Mazda3

Mercedes-AMG CLS 53

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan

Mercedes-Benz GLE

Mitsubishi Triton

Peugeot 5008

Subaru Forester

Suzuki Swift Sport

Toyota Corolla Hatch

Toyota RAV4

Toyota Supra

Volkswagen T-Cross