The finalists for the 2025 South African Car of the Year (SA COTY) competition sponsored by Old Mutual Insure have been announced, and it’s clear that adventure and versatility remain strong themes in the automotive market. While this year’s lineup includes everything from budget hatchbacks to high-performance saloons, it’s the SUVs, crossovers, and bakkies that grab the spotlight for Adventure Afrika readers.
The competition rundown
The SA COTY competition, now in its 39th year, is organised by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) and sponsored by Old Mutual Insure. After an intensive evaluation of 29 semi-finalists, the jurors selected 17 finalists across various categories. Each vehicle will undergo rigorous testing, including a three-day evaluation in Johannesburg and physical testing at Zwartkops Raceway, ensuring that every contender proves its mettle.
Here is the full list of the 2025 SA COTY finalists:
- BMW 5 Series Sedan
- BMW M5
- BMW X3
- Ford Mustang GT
- GAC GS3 EMZOOM
- GWM P500 HEV
- Jaecoo J7
- Mahindra XUV 3XO
- Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class (E 220d)
- MINI Countryman
- Mitsubishi Triton
- Omoda C9
- Suzuki Swift
- Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Volvo EX30
Vehicles of interest to Adventure Afrika readers
Among the finalists, several models stand out for overlanders, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventurous families. Here’s a closer look at the vehicles most relevant to our audience:
BMW X3
The BMW X3 isn’t just about premium styling and on-road performance; it also boasts a range of features that make it suitable for outdoor lifestyles. Its xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures surefooted handling on gravel roads and mild trails, while a spacious interior and advanced tech add practicality for families. It’s an option that blends luxury with versatility.
GAC GS3 Emzoom
The GAC GS3 EMZOOM is a striking new entry into the crossover market. It offers bold styling, a tech-heavy interior, and an attractive price point, making it a strong option for young families or couples looking for an affordable yet capable SUV. Its compact size and efficient engine also make it practical for urban adventurers.
GWM P500 HEV
Making history as the first hybrid bakkie to reach the SA COTY finals, the GWM P500 HEV represents a bold step forward in the South African market. It combines traditional toughness with eco-conscious engineering, featuring a hybrid drivetrain aimed at reducing fuel consumption without compromising on performance. For those who love exploring off the beaten path but want to tread lighter on the planet, the P500 HEV offers an intriguing alternative.
Jaecoo J7
As one of the newer names on the South African market, the Jaecoo J7 is a stylish crossover aimed at younger buyers and adventurous spirits. It features bold styling, a tech-forward interior, and value-driven pricing. While it’s less proven than some of its rivals, its fresh appeal and affordability could make it a surprise contender.
Mahindra XUV 3XO
Mahindra continues to impress with its value-driven offerings, and the XUV 3XO is no exception. Combining a stylish design, compact dimensions, and practical features, this crossover is aimed at budget-conscious buyers who still want a bit of flair. It’s an excellent option for those who enjoy occasional road trips or outdoor excursions without breaking the bank.
MINI Countryman
The MINI Countryman stands out with its unique charm and adventurous spirit. It offers more space and practicality than the standard MINI, making it a versatile option for weekend getaways. With all-wheel drive available on some variants, it’s a stylish companion for both city streets and gravel roads.
Mitsubishi Triton
A strong contender in the bakkie segment, the newly launched Mitsubishi Triton has already turned heads with its rugged design and off-road capabilities. Mitsubishi is renowned for its reliable 4x4s, and the Triton is no exception, offering a powerful turbo-diesel engine, impressive towing capacity, and advanced off-road tech. Whether tackling rough trails or handling daily commutes, this bakkie is a practical all-rounder.
Omoda C9
The Omoda C9 is the stylish newcomer shaking up the crossover segment. With futuristic design, a tech-packed cabin, and surprising refinement, it delivers a premium feel at an accessible price. A punchy turbocharged engine and smooth dual-clutch transmission ensure an engaging drive, while spacious interiors and modern conveniences tick the practicality box. This bold contender proves that Omoda is here to challenge the status quo – and it’s doing so with flair.
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
The Land Cruiser Prado is a name synonymous with adventure, and this year’s finalist brings the same blend of luxury and off-road prowess that has made it a legend in South Africa. With enhanced tech features, a refined interior, and Toyota’s reliable engineering, the Prado continues to be the ultimate family adventure SUV. This is the one to watch if you’re serious about exploring South Africa’s most remote destinations in comfort and style.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Tiguan has long been a favourite among South African buyers, thanks to its balance of comfort, practicality, and subtle ruggedness. The latest model brings sharper styling, cutting-edge safety features, and a refined drive, making it an excellent choice for families who enjoy weekend getaways as much as weekday errands.
Volvo EX30
The Volvo EX30 is the only fully electric vehicle (EV) to make the finals this year, and it’s a testament to the growing relevance of EVs in South Africa. While not an off-roader in the traditional sense, its compact SUV form factor, cutting-edge safety features, and zero-emissions drivetrain make it ideal for eco-conscious adventurers who mostly stick to paved roads but want something unique and future-focused.
Closing thoughts
The 2025 SA COTY finalists reflect the evolving needs of South African motorists, with sustainability, innovation, and versatility taking centre stage. For Adventure Afrika readers, the list highlights a growing number of options catering to outdoor lifestyles, whether you prioritise traditional 4×4 capability or are ready to embrace greener technology.
As the finalists prepare for the next phase of testing, we’ll be keeping a close eye on how these vehicles perform and whether any of them can match the Ford Ranger’s historic 2023 overall win. Whatever the outcome, it’s clear that South African buyers are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the perfect companion for their next adventure.
