2025 CAR OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

FORMAT: The group of 29 have been announced and the next step is for them to undergo an intense three-day evaluation process

By Motoring Reporter

Late last year, 29 models were announced as semi-finalists in the prestigious 2025 Car of the Year (COTY) competition sponsored by Old Mutual Insure.

This marks the 39th edition of the annual event, organised by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ), a non-profit organisation of automotive media specialists.

The semi-finalist list was then thoroughly assessed by SAGMJ’s elected expert Jurors, who are recognised leaders in their respective fields.

The finalists selected from that group of 29 have been announced, and the next step is for them to undergo an intense three-day evaluation process to test their capabilities in Johannesburg, South Africa.

While the previous format of the COTY award focused on a single model, the introduction of categories alongside an overall winner in recent years has enhanced the competition’s relevance to the public.

The finalists showcase a diverse range of vehicles, from compact hatchbacks to family-sized SUVs and performance saloons, ensuring that buyers at various price points can find cars of class-leading excellence.

The 2025 SA Car of the Year Finalists are (in alphabetical order):

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