The winners of the 2025 South African Car of the Year (COTY) were announced on May 6, with the locally-built BMW X3 taking home the prestigious title. This victory marks the eighth time BMW has claimed the top spot in the competition's 39-year history, further solidifying the brand's dominance in the South African automotive market.
The BMW X3, manufactured at the company’s Rosslyn facility in Tshwane, impressed judges with its high refinement levels, innovative design, advanced technology, and perceived value for money. The X3 edged ahead in the scoring due to its combination of features and overall performance, even though the BMW M5 scored the highest during the jury evaluation. The M5, however, fell to third place overall due to an automated scoring component that accounts for 20% of the final score, which elevated the X3 to victory.
According to the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists, which organizes the COTY competition, the X3 is a beacon of the local industry’s capabilities and exceptional manufacturing standards. The vehicle starts at R1,136,417 for the 20d diesel model and R1,260,000 for the 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid, making it a competitive option within the premium segment.
The X3’s 30e xDrive variant boasts a 19.7-kWh battery, allowing for a claimed electric range of up to 90 kilometers. Its interior features a large curved display, unique ‘interaction bar,’ and a striking new lighting scheme, though some critics noted that the heavily digitized infotainment system could be less user-friendly and that certain interior plastics felt somewhat cheap.
In addition to the overall winner, the COTY competition recognizes excellence across several categories. The Suzuki Swift took second place overall, while the BMW M5 secured third. The Swift, now in its fourth generation, has made significant improvements in safety, boasting six airbags as standard across the range. The M5, which also received the Jurors' Choice award, impressed with its hybrid technology, offering both electric-only driving and the power of a twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
Other category winners included the Volkswagen Tiguan in the Family category, praised for its modern styling and features like massaging seats, and the BMW 5 Series in the Executive category, noted for its luxurious interior and balanced dynamics. The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado won the Adventure Utility segment, while the Mahindra XUV 3XO was voted the 2025 Old Mutual Insure Car of the Year Motor Enthusiast “People’s Choice” Award, reflecting its appeal among the public.
BMW’s success in the COTY competition is not new; the brand has consistently performed well since its first win in 1988 with the 735i. This year’s win for the X3 follows last year’s victory by the 7 Series, showcasing BMW’s ongoing commitment to quality and innovation in the South African market.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the COTY competition remains a vital benchmark for excellence, highlighting the best vehicles available to consumers. The rigorous evaluation process involves a 27-member jury of respected motoring journalists who assess each finalist based on design, engineering, performance, handling, technology, and safety. Market data and value analysis are also factored in, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of each contender.
In light of the diverse needs of South African consumers, the COTY awards aim to recognize vehicles that not only excel in their respective categories but also enhance the overall driving experience. The competition's focus on innovation, safety, and quality reflects the commitment of manufacturers to meet the demands of today’s drivers.
Looking ahead, the automotive landscape in South Africa is poised for further growth and development, with manufacturers investing in new technologies and sustainable practices. As the industry adapts to changing consumer preferences, the COTY competition will continue to serve as a platform for showcasing the best in automotive excellence.
In conclusion, the 2025 South African Car of the Year awards celebrate not only the winners but also the spirit of competition that drives innovation and improvement across the automotive sector. With a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and value, the awards highlight the importance of recognizing vehicles that make a meaningful difference on South African roads.
