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Johannesburg,South Africa – August 29,2025 – Ford’s Territory Dark,an appearance package for the Territory SUV,has been assessed as a prosperous enhancement to the model’s comfort and practicality,though it faces stiff competition in the South African market. The review highlights the vehicle’s spacious interior and driving modes, while noting fuel consumption and driveability as areas for advancement.
The Territory Dark builds upon the existing Territory model, offering a cosmetic upgrade with a focus on aesthetics. It retains the standard four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Mountain, catering to a variety of driving conditions. During a 405-kilometer test drive encompassing mixed terrain around Gauteng province, the vehicle recorded a fuel consumption of 9.1 liters per 100 kilometers.
The Territory Dark’s design features include a blacked-out finish on the “Territory” script, enhancing its visual appeal. The vehicle’s interior maintains the spaciousness characteristic of the Territory range, providing ample room for passengers.
South Africa‘s new vehicle sales have continued their upward trend, defying economic headwinds, though a recent US import tariff has impacted export figures.
In a testament to the resilience of the South African automotive market, new vehicle sales have demonstrated sustained positive momentum. This performance underscores the confidence in the country’s economic trajectory and the strategic importance of a stable macroeconomic policy environment,according to naamsa CEO Mikel Mabasa.
While overall sales figures remain robust, the sector is facing challenges from international trade policies.The implementation of a 25% US import tariff has resulted in a 1.9% decrease in new vehicle exports,dropping from 36,056 units to 35,379 units for the month. This progress has drawn sharp criticism from Naamsa, with Mabasa expressing deep disappointment and concern over the potential for severe socio-economic fallout without urgent trade remedies. Naamsa is actively engaging with the government to advocate for a fair and reciprocal trading relationship, emphasizing the long-standing automotive ties between South Africa and the US.
The domestic market,however,shows strength across different vehicle segments. Medium-duty commercial vehicles saw a significant increase of 13.9%,with sales rising from 617 to 703 units. Conversely, heavy-duty trucks and buses experienced a slight decline of 1.3%, falling from 2,103 to 2,076 units.
Dealer sales remain the dominant channel,accounting for 83.1% of the total 51,383 vehicles sold. The remaining sales where distributed among rental agencies (11.1%), corporate fleets (2.7%),and government purchases (3.1%).
Looking ahead, Naamsa is exploring strategies to mitigate the impact of the US tariffs. These include deepening regional trade, expanding market access in Africa and Asia, and accelerating the adoption of new-energy vehicle technologies to attract investment and safeguard production capacity.
Top 10 Best-Selling Marques
The performance of leading automotive brands in south Africa, compared to the previous month, is as follows:
- toyota – 12,694 (No change)
- Suzuki – 6,257 (No change)
- Volkswagen – 5,738 (No change)
- Hyundai – 3,161 (Up 1 position)
- Ford – 2,877 (Down 1 position)
- GWM – 2,436 (No change)
- Isuzu – 2,427 (Up 1 position)
- Chery – 2,160 (Down 1 position)
- Kia – 1,891 (Up 3 positions)
- Mahindra – 1,441 (Down 1 position)
Jeep Gears Up for South African Market with Potential New Models
Stellantis South Africa considering Avenger, updated Compass, and electric Recon, alongside Wrangler and Gladiator enhancements.
Jeep enthusiasts in South Africa may soon see a significant expansion of the brand’s local offerings, with Stellantis South Africa currently evaluating the introduction of three new models and potential powertrain updates for existing stalwarts.
New Entrants Under Review
The potential new additions to the Jeep lineup include the Avenger, the recently updated Compass, and the all-electric Recon. Janus Janse van Rensburg, divisional head for Stellantis’ premium brands, indicated these vehicles are “under study,” with a final decision pending sales approval. This strategic review aligns with Jeep’s global product strategy, as the brand aims to electrify its range and expand into new segments.
Wrangler and Gladiator Set for Refinements
Beyond new models, Stellantis is also planning significant revisions for the Wrangler and Gladiator in the first quarter of 2026. The Wrangler will receive a refreshed colour palette, including a new orange hue named “Joose.” A notable potential return is the naturally aspirated 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, a combination that was previously dropped in favour of the 2.0-litre Hurricane turbo-petrol. This move could cater to a demand for the V6, previously paired with a six-speed manual in the US market, and is expected to deliver 213kW and 353Nm.
Perhaps the most exciting prospect for Wrangler aficionados is the consideration of bringing the potent Wrangler 392 to South Africa. This variant, powered by a 6.4-litre V8 engine producing 350kW and 637Nm, offers blistering performance, achieving 0-96km/h in just 4.5 seconds. The 392 would also receive the same interior upgrades as the standard Wrangler.
Furthermore, the limited-run Willys variant is also under study. This special edition pays homage to the original Willys Jeep and could signal the return of the two-door body style to the Wrangler range, which is currently only offered in four-door guise locally.
Gladiator Receives Tech and Design Updates
The Jeep Gladiator pickup truck is also slated for an update, mirroring the enhancements introduced in the facelifted Wrangler. The South African market Gladiator will feature the same exterior styling tweaks and a significantly revised interior. Key upgrades include new air vents, USB-C ports, improved materials, and the new 12.3-inch Uconnect infotainment system. Under the hood, the local Gladiator is expected to retain the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 209kW and 347Nm, as the Hurricane unit is not specified for any market.
Additional Models in the Pipeline
The Jeep Avenger has long been a subject of speculation for the South African market. Originally conceived with an electric powertrain, the introduction of a mild-hybrid version in other markets has reignited possibilities for its local debut. While the 48-volt mild-hybrid system, featuring a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, generates 74kW and 205Nm, it’s possible that a purely petrol variant could be considered for South Africa.
The third-generation Jeep Compass, launched recently, is also under consideration. Positioned to slot above the Avenger, the Compass is expected to replace the outgoing Grand Cherokee in Jeep’s local flagship position. While hybrid and electric powertrains are available internationally, only the hybrid variant is earmarked for South Africa, should it receive the green light.
Models Ruled Out or Uncertain
Details surrounding the electric Recon remain scarce. Additionally, plans to launch the Meridian, known as the Commander in Brazil, appear to have been shelved. The upcoming all-new Cherokee’s fate in South Africa is currently uncertain. High-end models such as the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are definitively not planned, as their production is exclusively left-hand-drive.
Mercedes-AMG C63 Set to Ditch Hybrid Four-Cylinder, Embrace Six-Cylinder Power
The Mercedes-AMG C63 is poised for a powertrain overhaul, ditching its controversial four-cylinder plug-in hybrid setup. This move comes after consumer backlash and sluggish sales figures, signaling a potential return to a more traditional, and perhaps beloved, engine configuration.
Hybrid Heartbreak
Reports indicate that the plug-in hybrid powertrain, initially introduced to the C63, will be phased out. A senior Mercedes-AMG employee revealed the unpopularity of the current system, which has struggled to gain traction with buyers despite its impressive performance statistics. Dealers have been offering substantial discounts to move the cars.
The current 2.0-litre unit, which replaced the 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8, has not been well-received. Buyers have expressed their preference for the older engine. This change has led to price cuts, with some dealers offering reductions of up to ยฃ9,500.
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Customer Concerns
The company’s CEO, Michael Schiebe, admitted the need for better communication regarding the four-cylinder hybrid technology. He acknowledged that some customers find it challenging to accept the new system. The hybrid’s substantial curb weight, combined with reported overheating issues at high speeds, further contributed to the problem.
โTechnically, the four-cylinder is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car. Itโs also right up there on performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. Weโve recognised that,โ
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Despite the advanced engineering, the plug-in hybrid has struggled to resonate with buyers. The United Kingdom has seen discounts up to ยฃ9,500, and in the US, the car has been offered at reduced prices. In the first quarter of 2024, the C63 sales dropped by 20% as compared to the same period last year, reflecting the buyer dissatisfaction.
The Six-Cylinder Revival
As a replacement, a six-cylinder engine is planned. This new powertrain will likely be a 3.0-liter plug-in hybrid, similar to the one in the AMG CLE 53. The V8 engine is not expected to make a return, the forthcoming AMG CLE 63 will reportedly feature a mild-hybrid-assisted V8 with a reported output.
Though there’s no official confirmation from Mercedes-AMG yet, more details are expected later this year. The move to six-cylinder engines could signify a shift back towards engines that have stronger ties with the brand’s legacy.
Facelifted Volkswagen Golf 8.5 Arrives, But Does the Price Tag Fit?
The latest Volkswagen Golf 8.5 has arrived in South Africa, marking the 50th anniversary of the Golf in Europe. However, the cost of this “garden variety” Golf may surprise potential buyers, especially in a market favoring SUVs.
Return of a Classic
In 2024, Volkswagen celebrated the Golf’s golden anniversary, and South Africa welcomed the return of the “normal” Golf derivative after the Mk 7.5 production ceased in 2019. The Mk 8.5 facelift model comes with its own considerations, particularly the price point compared to its sportier GTI and R siblings.
The Golf 8.5, which features the 1.4 TSI engine, bypasses the particle filter issues that affect the GTI and R models. This compatibility makes it suitable for regions with lower fuel quality. The focus of this version centers on design upgrades rather than performance.
Design and Interior Enhancements
The Mk 8.5 showcases external design changes, including new headlight clusters with standard LEDs, a revised front bumper and grille, a redesigned bonnet, and the addition of an illuminated logo bar. The rear also sees updates with new LED light clusters, which are reminiscent of the Mk 7.5. These changes provide a cleaner aesthetic, avoiding the criticism the Mk 8 initially received.
Inside, the Golf 8.5 boasts notable improvements, most notably the replacement of the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls with more intuitive physical buttons. The updated 12.9-inch infotainment system, using Volkswagen’s MIB4 software, is also significantly enhanced. All models include a 10-inch Digital Cockpit instrument cluster.
On the Road
The Golf’s primary appeal comes from its refinement and the performance of its 1.4 TSI engine. Generating 110kW/250Nm, the engine delivers strong performance for its weight, and the eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, activated by a toggle switch, works well, avoiding low-speed issues. While some hesitation exists when downshifting, the overall driving experience is smooth.
The suspension setup effectively balances comfort and control. The steering provides good feedback, making the Golf engaging to drive. The test unit showed an indicated fuel consumption of 7.2 L/100 km. This is somewhat higher than Volkswagen’s claimed 6.3 L/100 km, but still remains fuel-efficient.
Price and Value Proposition
The most notable drawback is the Golf 8.5โs cost. With a sticker price of R604,500, the Life+ test model, when fully equipped, costs R737,200. As a comparison, this price is only R49,100 less than the top-spec R-Line+ without options. Despite these numbers, the Golf 8.5 offers a superior driving experience compared to similar models, with high comfort and refinement levels. Data from the South African Car Market shows that the average price for a new Golf is R650,000 (Source 2024).
Ultimately, the return of the Golf 8.5 caters to loyal enthusiasts who appreciate a more understated style and may not need the high-performance characteristics of the GTI or R models, or the increased bulk of an SUV. Whether this niche appeal will be enough remains a question.