Johannesburg, 9 January 2026 – MG Motor is turning heads and redefining expectations in the South African automotive market. The all-electric MG Cyberster roadster and the value-packed MG ZS Pro compact crossover have both been named semi-finalists in the 2026 South African Car of the Year competition, sponsored by Old Mutual Insure, following the first-round vote by members of the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ).
Since its inception in 1986, the South African Car of the Year has celebrated vehicles that embody innovation, design excellence, and outstanding driving experiences. Entries are evaluated through rigorous experiential testing and data-driven scoring, including market segment sales and spec-adjusted competitor pricing, ensuring that only the most exceptional vehicles reach the semi-final stage.
A Legacy of Innovation Meets the Electric Era
“The Cyberster is not only a nod to MG’s century-long heritage, but also the epitome of how future-focused technology can live side by side with legacy,” says Alec He, General Manager of MG Motor South Africa. “Meanwhile, the ZS Pro proves that MG vehicles can be dynamic, forward-thinking, and practical, all while delivering incredible value and safety for our customers.”
The MG Cyberster is a bold fusion of the brand’s iconic British heritage and cutting-edge electric performance. Its 375kW all-wheel-drive electric drivetrain delivers 725 Nm of instant torque, propelling the roadster from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds. A 77kWh battery supports AC charging at 11 kW and DC fast charging at 144 kW. The Cyberster’s design merges retro flair with futuristic touches, from scissor doors to sleek lines, paying homage to the beloved MGB while heralding MG’s electric future. With a starting price of R1,399,900, the Cyberster is a sports car that makes high-performance accessible.
Style, Practicality, and Performance in One Package
The MG ZS Pro, which debuted at the 2025 Festival of Motoring, delivers a compelling blend of style, practicality, and technology. Its wide-frame grille, sculpted bodywork, and “Predator Eye” LED headlamps give the ZS Pro a confident and sporty presence, while the 1.5-litre turbocharged engine produces 125kW of power and 275Nm of torque, paired with a smooth, high-performing CVT transmission.
Designed for families and daily drivers alike, the ZS Pro offers practical interior space, advanced safety technology, and smart digital features. Available in Comfort and Luxury grades from R397,600, it also comes standard with a 7-year/200,000 km warranty and a 5-year/60,000 km service plan, underscoring MG Motor’s commitment to quality and customer peace of mind.
“From our state-of-the-art parts distribution centre in Johannesburg to a rapidly expanding dealer network – which has doubled in size since the start of 2025 – MG Motor is committed to serving South African customers with excellence,” adds Alec He.
The 2026 South African Car of the Year winner will be announced later this year, and with the Cyberster and ZS Pro leading the charge, MG Motor’s blend of heritage, innovation, and value positions the brand as a major contender for the top prize.
