As the automotive industry evolves, so too do the criteria for evaluating excellence among new vehicles. The 2025 Cars.co.za Awards are poised to recognize outstanding contributions to the automotive landscape, selecting 13 category winners from a diverse pool of semi-finalists that embody the pinnacle of purchasing propositions in the new-car market.
The Selection Process
“We believe that any of the cars that made the cut as semi-finalists in their respective categories are worthy of serious consideration by car buyers,” says Hannes Oosthuizen, the project manager of the 2024/25 Cars.co.za Awards. This prestigious event, now in its eighth iteration, was first established in 2015, with the inaugural gala taking place in 2016.
The rigorous selection process commenced with a thorough assessment of all cars available for sale as of September 1, 2024. This comprehensive approach ensures that the awards reflect the current offerings in the market, encompassing not just newly launched vehicles but also those established models that have stood the test of time. Moreover, models that are set for imminent release and will be available for test drives before the finalists are determined in early October have been granted wildcard entries. This inclusion underscores the awards’ commitment to representing the local new-car market in its entirety.
Oosthuizen emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in the awards, noting that this method allows for a well-rounded representation of available options. “This was done to ensure the Awards are as representative as possible of the local new-car market when the winners are announced in February 2025,” he explains.
A Diverse Line-Up of Brands
This year, no fewer than 25 brands are represented among the semi-finalists for the 2025 CarsAwards. Leading the pack is Toyota/Lexus, the reigning Cars.co.za Brand of the Year, boasting an impressive eight nominations for Toyota and three for Lexus. Following closely behind, GWM (including Haval and Ora) and Volkswagen each secured five nominations. Kia, BMW, and Volvo are tied with four nominations, while the specialist off-road brand, Ineos, makes its debut this year with two nominations.
The Semi-Finalists: Categories Overview
Best Budget Car (Under R300,000)
In a market where affordability meets quality, the winner in this category will exemplify the best balance of safety, technology, and cost-effectiveness. The semi-finalists include:
- Hyundai Grand i10 1.0 Executive
- Kia Picanto 1.2 EX
- Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GL
- Toyota Starlet 1.5 XS
- Volkswagen Polo Vivo 1.4 Life
Wildcard entries: Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Exter, and Mahindra XUV 3XO.
Best Compact Hatch (R300,000 to R500,000)
This category remains fiercely competitive, reflecting the demand for versatile vehicles that appeal to a broad audience. The semi-finalists are:
- Honda Fit 1.5 Elegance Auto
- Hyundai i20 1.0T N Line Auto
- Opel Corsa 1.2T GS Line Auto
- Suzuki Baleno 1.5 GLX Auto
- Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI 85kW R-Line Auto
Best Budget Crossover (R300,000 to R400,000)
As the crossover market continues to grow, the semi-finalists highlight innovative offerings from various manufacturers:
- Chery Tiggo 4 Pro 1.5T Elite Auto
- Kia Sonet 1.5 LX Auto
- Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GLX Auto
- Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 XR Auto
- Toyota Urban Cruiser 1.5 XR Auto
Best Compact Family Car (R400,000 to R600,000)
The compact family car must balance space, efficiency, and versatility to cater to modern family needs. Semi-finalists include:
- Chery Tiggo 7 Pro Max 1.6TGDI 290T Premium AWD
- Haval Jolion Pro 1.5 HEV Ultra Luxury
- Kia Seltos 1.5 CRDi EX+
- Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid XR
- Volkswagen T-Cross 1.0TSI R-Line
Wildcard entries: GAC GS3 Emzoom, Jetour X70 Plus, and Jetour Dashing.
Best Family Car (R600,000 to R800,000)
With families increasingly seeking vehicles that can multitask, the semi-finalists focus on comfort and versatility:
- Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max 2.0TGDI 390T Executive AWD
- Haval H6 1.5T HEV Ultra Luxury
- Kia Sportage 1.6 CRDi GT Line Plus
- Mitsubishi Outlander 2.5 Aspire
- Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4TSI R-Line
Best Premium Crossover (R700,000 to R1m)
Targeted towards image-conscious buyers, the semi-finalists in this category represent aspirational vehicles that merge performance with prestige:
- Audi Q3 Sportback 35TFSI Black Edition
- BMW X2 sDrive18i M Sport
- Lexus UX 300h SE
- Mini Countryman S ALL4
- Volvo XC40 B4 Ultimate Dark
Best Executive SUV (R1m to R1.5m)
As the demand for premium SUVs rises, the semi-finalists demonstrate a combination of luxury and practicality:
- Audi Q5 45TFSI quattro Black Edition
- Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport
- Mazda CX-60 3.3D AWD Takumi
- Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4Matic Avantgarde
- Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge AWD Ultimate Black Edition
Wildcard entry: BMW X3.
Best Premium SUV (R1.5m to R2m)
Blending capability with opulence, the semi-finalists are poised to cater to consumers seeking both status and functionality:
- BMW X5 xDrive30d M Sport
- Lexus RX 500h F Sport
- Mercedes-Benz GLE300d 4Matic
- Range Rover Velar P340 Dynamic HSE
- Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI R-Line
Best Adventure SUV
The ultimate recreational vehicle for on- and off-road adventures, the semi-finalists include:
- Ford Everest 3.0TD V6 4WD Wildtrak
- GWM Tank 500 2.0T HEV Ultra Luxury 4×4
- Ineos Grenadier 3.0T Trailmaster Edition
- Land Rover Defender 110 D350 X-Dynamic HSE
- Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.8GD VX-R
Best Leisure Double Cab (Under R750,000)
Reflecting South Africa’s love for bakkies, this category emphasizes value and capability:
- Ford Ranger 2.0SiT XLT 4×4 Auto
- GWM P-Series 2.0TD LTD 4×4 Auto
- Isuzu D-Max 1.9TD LS 4×4 Auto
- Mahindra Pik Up 2.2CRDe 4×4 S11 Karoo Dawn Auto
- Toyota Hilux 2.4GD-6 Raider 4×4 Auto
Ultimate Double Cab (Above R750,000)
In a market where versatility is key, the semi-finalists demonstrate the breadth of capability in this segment:
- Ford Ranger 3.0T V6 Raptor 4WD
- Ineos Grenadier 3.0T Quartermaster Trailmaster Edition
- Isuzu D-Max 3.0TD AT35 4×4
- Jeep Gladiator 3.6 Rubicon
- Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 4×4 GR-Sport
Best Performance Car (Under R2m)
The final category seeks to highlight vehicles that deliver exhilarating performance at a more accessible price point.
The excitement surrounding the 2025 Cars.co.za Awards is palpable, and as the semi-finalists are celebrated, the anticipation builds for the final winners to be announced in February 2025. With the careful deliberation of the Cars.co.za editorial team and the innovative offerings from manufacturers, this year promises to be a landmark event for automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike.
