As one of the longest-standing Jury members of the South African Car of the Year (COTY) competition, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing many test days, but few have been as thorough, successful, or energising as the 2025 edition. Organised under the auspices of the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ), this year’s event exemplified the spirit of progress and collaboration that underpins our industry’s most respected accolade.
Over two rigorous days in March, Jury members of the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) scrutinised the performance of each of this year’s Old Mutual Insure South African Car of the Year competition finalists – all in a controlled environment that allowed for objective comparisons. But as essential as testing is, COTY is not a stopwatch competition. It demands insight, expertise, and perspective – attributes that each Jury member brings after years of evaluating vehicles in the real world. The ability to contextualise a car’s merits in relation to its category, segment competitors, and broader consumer relevance is what gives this competition its credibility.
This year also marked another step forward in diversity and future-proofing, with the inclusion of several new and trainee Jurors. Their fresh perspectives, combined with the seasoned insight of the returning panel, made for some of the most well-rounded discussions I’ve been part of in years. That blend of experience and new energy is essential for ensuring that the COTY competition remains as relevant in 2035 as it is today.
BMW X3 TAKES TOP HONOURS
After much deliberation, the title of 2025 Old Mutual Insure South African Car of the Year was awarded to the BMW X3 – the first time this nameplate has claimed the crown, and a testament to the Rosslyn-built SUV’s high standards of refinement, innovation, and value. It’s a historic win for BMW, which remains the most successful manufacturer in COTY history. Hot on the heels of last year’s 7 Series victory, the X3’s success underscores the German marque’s impressive breadth of range and commitment to quality, especially within the context of local production.
The X3 impressed on several fronts: its digitised interior, innovative design, dynamic prowess, and competitive price positioning all factored into its high scores. In a market where SUVs dominate buyer preference, it’s no surprise that this all-rounder edged ahead.
SWIFT SECOND FOR SUZUKI, ELECTRIFYING THIRD FOR BMW M5
Following closely behind was the Suzuki Swift – an all-new generation of the budget hatchback that has grown in both sophistication and safety. With six airbags now standard across the range and a punchy package that delivers substantial real-world value, the Swift proved that affordable doesn’t have to mean compromised. Its second-place finish is no small feat in a competition that judges every car against a strict set of criteria.
Completing the podium (and lighting it up, frankly) was the BMW M5. The latest G90-generation model seamlessly blends brutal performance with plug-in hybrid technology, offering a Jekyll-and-Hyde driving experience that wowed us all. One minute it’s whisper-quiet on electric power, the next it’s hurtling toward the horizon with a twin-turbo V8 roar. It also took home the Jurors’ Choice award – an internal favourite that recognises standout impact on the panel.
CATEGORY CHAMPIONS
Beyond the overall winners, the COTY awards also celebrate excellence within key market segments:
- Budget: Suzuki Swift – A deserving winner that proves economy can still be exciting.
- Family: Volkswagen Tiguan – Modern, comfortable, and impressively specified, it’s a class act in a hotly contested segment.
- Premium: BMW X3 – Leading its segment with tech, comfort, and sharp styling.
- Executive: BMW 5 Series (G60) – A masterclass in business-class motoring.
- Adventure Utility: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (J250) – Retro-inspired but forward-thinking in its off-road ability and comfort.
- Performance: BMW M5 – A thrilling and technically brilliant machine that’s evolved for the hybrid era.
THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE: MAHINDRA XUV 3XO
One of the newer yet no less important aspects of the competition is the Old Mutual Insure Motor Enthusiast’s “People’s Choice” Award. Voted for by the public, this year’s honours went to the Mahindra XUV 3XO. It’s not hard to see why: from dual 10.25″ screens and a panoramic sunroof to its sharp pricing and strong spec sheet, the Mahindra punches well above its weight. More importantly, it shows that South African motorists are engaged and value-conscious, but not at the expense of flair.
LAST WORD
Chairperson of the SAGMJ, Mabuyane Mabuza, summed it up best when she noted the growing emphasis on safety, technology, and innovation across all segments. The competition’s judging framework – bolstered by Lightstone Auto’s data insights and independently audited results – ensures a robust, transparent, and relevant outcome each year.
As one of the Jury members who has watched this competition evolve over many years, I remain proud to be part of the process. The 2025 Old Mutual Insure SA Car of the Year results reflect not only automotive excellence, but also the strength of South Africa’s automotive industry and the value of collaboration between seasoned experts and new voices alike.
Congratulations to all the winners – and here’s to another milestone year for South African motoring.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © SAGMJ
