By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
Many will remember last week for the heavy snowfall that caused road closures, especially on the N3, leaving many motorists stranded over the weekend. Meanwhile, those in motoring circles will recall it for the quiet coup by Eastern car manufacturers, who launched a series of new brands set to hit our roads in real-time. It’s no secret that new vehicle sales in South Africa have slumped as financially strained motorists turn to the used car market for cheaper options. However, this hasn’t stopped new players from entering the market with more affordable cars.
Mahindra XUV 3XO
First up was Mahindra, a brand that has been making waves in South Africa for 20 years and seems to have gained a better understanding of the market. It launched the XUV 3XO, a compact SUV that ticks the boxes for what motorists want in a new vehicle. The baby XUV comes standard with 6 airbags, a 6-speed automatic transmission, wireless charging, and Apple and Android connectivity, starting at just over R274,999. However, the entry-level manual transmission, priced at R254,999, is being positioned as a game-changer in the highly contested compact SUV market.
GAC Motor EMKOO
Not to be outdone, GAC Motor, a recently introduced brand, quickly unveiled its second model in less than a month. They launched the mid-sized premium SUV, the EMKOO, with a head-turning drive through Gauteng and North West provinces. With elegant design, refined craftsmanship, and advanced technology, they got the recipe right. Most importantly, they nailed the price, offering all this luxury for R599,900. The EMKOO comes soon after the launch of the GS3 EMZOOM, a compact SUV set to compete for market share despite its unusual name.
Look out for Xploreza’s first impressions and review of the EMKOO launch.
Jetour Dashing and X70
Another newcomer to the market is the Chinese Jetour brand, which sees potential in South Africa and aims to bring affordable luxury to our streets with a blend of travel, fashion, and modern technology. Wasting no time, they unveiled two models that will leave buyers spoiled for choice. The Jetour Dashing and Jetour X70 Plus are positioned as game changers, thanks to their sleek design, advanced technology, and premium features. Price is again a key selling point, with the Jetour Dashing starting at R439,900 and the Jetour X70 from R454,900.
With all these options, South African motorists are spoilt for choice. The recent interest rate cut also eases the pressure on consumers, giving them the chance to shop around and treat themselves to the smell of a new car.
