The cars coming to SA in 2025
As 2024 draws to a close, we at TGSA reflect on a year filled with remarkable motoring content from around the globe. While this year has been nothing short of eventful, with manufacturers gearing up to maintain the momentum into the new year, the horizon for 2025 looks incredibly promising, with many new cars and brands set to debut. In light of this, we look at some of the models set for arrival in 2025, with several promising to challenge the status quo.
Audi SA
There is a busy year ahead for Audi South Africa. In the first quarter of 2025, the brand will launch the A3 facelift, followed by the Q7 (including SQ7) facelift, and lastly, the Q8 refresh (including the SQ8).
In the second quarter, the Q6 e-Tron SUV, A5, RSQ8 Performance, S3, and RS 3 facelifts are expected to launch locally. The A6 e-Tron, which Audi SA says is still under consideration for the South African market, will most likely follow these in the third quarter. In the last quarter, the brand new Q5 is scheduled to launch locally, or possibly in the first quarter of 2026.
Chery SA
Chery SA plans to launch the new Tiggo 7 Pro, Pro Max, and Tiggo 8 Pro models in the first quarter of 2025. The Tiggo Cross hybrid is expected to join the range in the second quarter alongside the larger Tiggo 9 7-seater SUV. For those curious about the addition of another 3-row SUV when the Tiggo 8 already exists, the Tiggo 9 offers increased size and enhanced practicality, catering to those with greater space requirements.
Citroen SA
Coupe SUVs are popular in South Africa now. That being said, in the fourth quarter of 2025, Citroen will unveil the Basalt, a small SUV that will be positioned above the C3 Aircross.
Ford SA
Ford SA decided not to comment about its future products when contacted for comment.
Honda SA
As of the writing of this article, Honda South Africa had not confirmed any updates to its 2025 product lineup.
Jeep South Africa
The marque is expected to launch its Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator facelifts. However, Stellantis has yet to confirm the exact timing for the launch of these two models at the time of writing.
Kia SA
Scheduled for launch are the facelifted Sorento and Carnival MPVs from Kia in the first half of 2025. During the second half, the Korean manufacturer will launch the Carens, which rivals the likes of the Renault Triber, Mitsubishi Xpander, Suzuki Ertiga, Toyota Rumion, and Honda BR-V, to name a few.
Furthermore, Kia will also launch its first-ever double cab bakkie dubbed Tasman, which is earmarked for SA’s debut in late 2025 to challenge segment stalwarts such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-Max, amongst others, with a more retro-inspired spin.
LDV SA
When contacted for comment, LDV South Africa stated that it is unable to disclose information regarding its future models.
Leap Motors SA
In the fourth quarter of 2025, Stellantis is expected to launch its new brand, Leap Motors, as a dedicated EV brand. While the local range is yet to be confirmed, the brand will likely include the T03, a city-centric A-segment electric vehicle, and the C10, a D-segment SUV.
Leap Motors is a Chinese EV maker. As of 2023, Stellantis acquired a 20% stake in it, giving it exclusive rights to export, sell, and manufacture Leap Motor products outside of China.
Mahindra SA
Mahindra SA looks like it will have a busy year ahead. In 2025, the Pik Up range is slated to get subtle cosmetic changes and additional interior specifications, while the Scorpio-N, on the other hand, will also get minor tweaks, including a 4x4 version of the base variant.
Following the sighting of a heavily camouflaged unit undergoing endurance testing at the Gerotek testing facility, the brand could likely introduce the Thar Roxx, which is currently sold exclusively in India.
On the international front, Mahindra will debut its final production version of its all-new Pik Up range, but that’s expected to only arrive in South Africa in 2026. Additionally, the Mumbai-based automaker is expected to launch its Born Electric (BE) range of electric cars in Europe and India. South Africa is also on the list, but we don’t expect these to arrive locally next year.
Mercedes-Benz SA
The team at Mercedes-Benz SA appears to have a busy year ahead of them. Expected to launch in the new year is the new G-Class alongside its AMG and electric counterparts. These will be joined by the SL 63, GT 63 SE, CLE 53, and E 53 AMG models within the same year.
Opel SA
Expected to launch in the first quarter of 2025 is the Opel Mokka facelift, and by the look of things, it won’t look too different from before. In the second quarter, the Frontera subcompact crossover SUV is expected to join the range to compete with the likes of the Renault Duster and VW T-Cross.
Peugeot SA
Peugeot SA will only introduce the 2008 facelift in the second quarter of the new year, making it a relatively relaxed year.
Porsche SA
While Porsche SA is tight-lipped about its 2025 lineup, we expect that it will possibly bring the 911 GTS, which has gone the hybrid route. Speaking of which, it gets a rear-mounted 3.6-litre flat-six engine that works in tandem with an electric turbocharger, allowing for 398kW and 610Nm. We remain in awe of the new 911 GTS, which now features a super-lightweight performance hybrid system. Indeed, times are changing.
Renault SA
Renault SA plans to launch the new Duster in the first half of the new year. It's expected to ride on a new platform and will come with exciting tech upgrades and a range of new engine options. Additionally, we can look forward to the launch of the Triber and Kiger facelift models in the second half.
Subaru SA
The folks at Subaru SA have a relaxed year ahead, with only the all-new Forester expected to launch in the third quarter. The new model is expected to bring a host of advancements, including a re-engineered chassis for better on-road performance and handling.
Suzuki SA
When contacted for comment, Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager for the brand, said that Suzuki will be bringing exciting cars in 2025.
“At this stage, we are unable to provide specific details or projected launch dates for the new vehicles that Suzuki Auto SA plans to introduce in 2025. As always, we remain committed to bringing exciting new products to the South African market, and we will share more information when we can do so,” he said.
Toyota SA
While we anticipate the Toyota Group to introduce a range of new products in the coming year, the manufacturer has not offered any comments at this time. However, we expect an official announcement regarding their plans at the brand’s 2025 State of the Motor Industry (SOMI).
Volkswagen SA
In the upcoming year, VW SA is set to launch several models, including the Golf Mk 8.5 1.4, which is expected to launch in the first quarter of the year. It will be followed by the Tayron, which is set to arrive locally in the third quarter.
On the commercial side, the Crafter will receive a facelift in the first quarter. Additionally, the new Transporter Panel Van will debut in the second quarter, with the Transporter Kombi following in the third quarter.
Volvo SA
By the end of the second quarter of 2025, Volvo is set to launch its new flagship EV, the EX90. While bearing a comparable profile to its ICE-powered XC90 counterpart, this new model is built on a new platform and boasts an outstanding driving range of up to 600km. Around the same time or by Q3, the new XC90 is also expected to join the local SUV market.