Hello friends, If you’re a car lover or planning to buy a new ride, 2025 is going to be an incredible year for the South African automotive market. With so many new models rolling in, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re into bakkies, SUVs, sedans, or electric vehicles. Let’s take a look at what’s in store!
A Game-Changer: Kia Enters the Bakkie Market
One of the biggest highlights of 2025 is the arrival of the Kia Tasman. This is Kia’s first-ever bakkie, and it’s expected to shake up the competition against the likes of the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. Kia has been tight-lipped about the specs, but if their track record is anything to go by, we can expect a stylish, reliable, and powerful workhorse.
Electrifying the Roads: The Rise of EVs and Hybrids
Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are gaining momentum, and 2025 will see even more options for South African buyers. Toyota is finally bringing the much-anticipated bZ4X, its first full-electric model in SA. Chery is introducing PHEV versions of its Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro, while Volkswagen will launch the new Tayron, replacing the Tiguan Allspace.
Audi is leading the premium EV charge with models like the Q6 e-tron, A6 e-tron, and an updated e-tron GT. Meanwhile, Stellantis is stepping up with Fiat and Abarth’s 500e, the first fully electric models from the group in South Africa.
SUVs Continue to Dominate
The SUV craze isn’t slowing down, and 2025 is packed with fresh new options. Renault will introduce the next-generation Duster, one of the most affordable 4×4 crossovers. Audi’s new Q5 will make its debut, going head-to-head with the latest BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
Volkswagen is bringing the Tayron, offering both a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine (110 kW) and a more powerful 2.0-litre turbo petrol (140 kW). If you prefer luxury, Bentley is introducing the Continental GT Speed Hybrid, a stunning blend of performance and elegance.
On the Chinese front, Jetour is making waves with new models like the Dashing, X70 Plus, and the rugged T2. Omoda and Jaecoo are also expanding their lineup with six new models, including the C7, C9 PHEV, J5, and J8.
Also read Honda X-Blade: A Game-Changer in Budget Sports Bikes
Hatchbacks for City Life
Hatchback fans will have plenty to look forward to as well. Volkswagen is revamping its Golf lineup, with a non-performance TSI model joining the GTI and R versions. Renault is updating the Clio, while Audi is giving the A3 and RS3 a facelift.
Mini lovers will be excited about the arrival of the new Aceman, Cooper Convertible, and John Cooper Works models. If you’re after something stylish yet practical, these new Minis are sure to impress.
Toyota’s Surprise Additions
Toyota has been keeping things under wraps, but there are a few confirmed launches. The Hilux Legend 55 is coming, alongside a refreshed Fortuner GR-S and an automatic version of the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.
Improved Economic Conditions Encouraging Car Sales 
It’s not just about the cars—2025 is shaping up to be a great year for buyers thanks to improving economic conditions. According to AutoTrader, South African consumer confidence is on the rise. A 0.25% drop in interest rates in November 2024 has made financing more accessible, and while petrol prices remain high at R22.41 per litre, they have been on a downward trend, which is great news for motorists.
Angelique Lynch, Marketing Director at AutoTrader, noted, “Falling interest rates and petrol prices are giving South African motorists and consumers plenty to smile about.
The Full List of New Cars Arriving in 2025
For those who want to see everything coming, here’s a quick rundown:
- Aston Martin: Vanquish Volante, Vantage Roadster
- Audi: Q5, RS Q8 Performance, Q7 facelift, Q8 facelift, A3 facelift, RS3 facelift, Q6 e-tron, e-tron GT, A5, S5, A6 e-tron
- BAIC: BJ30
- Bentley: Continental GT Speed Hybrid
- BMW: 2 Series Gran Coupe
- BYD: Shark, Sealion 6
- Chery: Tiggo 9, Tiggo 8 facelift, Tiggo 7 PHEV, Tiggo 4 Cross Hybrid
- Ford: Ranger PHEV
- Hyundai: Alcazar, Tucson facelift, Santa Fe, Palisade Petrol
- Isuzu: D-Max facelift, MU-X facelift
- Jeep: Gladiator update, Wrangler update
- Peugeot: 2008 update
- Porsche: 911 GT3 update, 911 GTS update
- Renault: Duster, Clio facelift, Arkana, Trafic, Captur facelift, Triber facelift, Kiger facelift, Symbioz
- Toyota: bZ4X, Hilux Legend 55, Fortuner GR-S, GR Yaris Automatic, GR Corolla Automatic
- Volkswagen: Tayron, Golf 1.4, T-Cross 70kW, Tiguan 2.0TSI
- Volvo: EX90, XC90 facelift
Final Thoughts
With such an exciting lineup, 2025 is shaping up to be a game-changing year for car buyers in South Africa. Whether you’re looking for an everyday city car, a powerful bakkie, or an eco-friendly EV, there will be plenty of choices.
So, which model are you most excited about? Let us know!