The 2025 Car of the Year (COTY) competition has been narrowed down to 17 finalists. Have a look at what the local competition still has in contention.
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The local SA Car of the Year competition has moved forward with a set of finalists being chosen by a panel of automotive-affiliated individuals. Next up, a three-day evaluation period in Johannesburg will assess their performance across various criteria, culminating in testing at Zwartkops Raceway just outside of Pretoria.
This year, the competition states it has evolved, incorporating a more comprehensive scoring system. Jury evaluations will be combined with data from Lightstone Auto, utilizing automated scoring based on market segment sales volumes and spec-adjusted competitor pricing. This integrated approach provides a more holistic assessment, reflecting both professional opinion and real-world market dynamics.
Furthermore, the introduction of multiple categories alongside the overall winner are stated to ensure relevance for new car buyers. The 2025 COTY will feature battles in various segments, including the performance category featuring the BMW M5, Ford Mustang, and Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance. In the bakkie category, the newly launched Mitsubishi Triton and the GWM P 500 HEV, the first hybrid bakkie to reach the COTY finals, will challenge the reigning champion, the Ford Ranger. The luxury sedan category will see a resurgence of the classic rivalry between the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Related: 2023 COTY semi-finalists revealed ahead of final culling
The 2025 SA Car of the Year Finalists are
- 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
The competition adds that sustainability is also a key focus, with four new-energy vehicles among the finalists. The BMW M5, Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance and Volvo EX30, the sole full electric vehicle in the competition, represent the growing importance of electrified mobility.
In for a new generation, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado hopes to add to its impressive legacy with a fourth COTY victory. Meanwhile, the globally acclaimed Suzuki Swift, a finalist for the 2025 World Car of the Year is back for another go at the title. While the remaining round of the competition unfolds, be sure to also find the CAR Magazine Top 12 Best Buys awards in the forthcoming April issue.
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