Coolest cars: Motoring enthusiasts in South Africa have a thrilling year ahead, with an array of innovative car models set to hit the roads in 2025. From cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs) to hybrid bakkies and rugged off-road SUVs, the lineup promises something for every type of driver.

    Advertisement

    Renowned brands such as Audi, BAIC, BYD, Jaecoo, Kia, and Lexus are introducing their latest creations, showcasing the future of automotive technology. Highlights include Audi’s long-range EV, the A6 e-tron, BYD’s Shark bakkie, and luxurious electric SUVs like the Lexus RZ. Here are the key models to watch out for:

    Coolest Cars to Look Forward to in SA This Year

    Audi A6 e-tron

    Audi’s A6 e-tron is set to launch in South Africa by mid-2025. This electric vehicle will be available in sleek Sportback and Avant body styles, replacing the traditional sedan. It offers a remarkable range of over 700 km on a single charge, thanks to its 100kWh battery. Additionally, it boasts a drag coefficient of just 0.21, making it Audi’s most aerodynamic vehicle yet. Pricing remains unconfirmed, but the A6 e-tron’s efficiency and design are expected to make it a standout.

    Advertisement
    Image: Audi South Africa

    BAIC BJ30

    The BAIC BJ30 compact SUV is expected in South Africa by late 2025. It offers versatility with a choice between a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine (139kW, 305Nm) and a hybrid version (246kW, 550Nm). Inside, the BJ30 features a 14.6-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver’s display. Pricing and specific local details will be revealed closer to its release date.

    Advertisement
    Image: BAIC

    BYD Shark

    The BYD Shark, arriving in early 2025, is poised to revolutionize the South African bakkie market. As the first plug-in hybrid electric bakkie available locally, it pairs a 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine with a 29.6kWh battery to produce 320kW. The Shark offers an electric-only range of 100 km and is expected to be priced around R750,000, making it competitive against traditional bakkies like the Ford Ranger Raptor.

    Image: BYD

    Jaecoo J6

    The Jaecoo J6 electric SUV is scheduled for release in the first half of 2025. It will be available in two- or four-wheel drive configurations, with power outputs reaching up to 279kW. The J6 offers an impressive range of 401 km to 501 km, depending on the variant. Its interior features include massage-capable electric seats and a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, appealing to tech-savvy drivers.

    Image: AutoTrader

    Kia Tasman

    Kia’s first foray into the South African bakkie market comes with the Tasman, set to launch in late 2025. Powered by a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine producing 154kW and 441Nm, it is equipped with four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Tasman’s robust performance and modern design make it a strong contender in the bakkie segment.

    Image: Car Magazine

    Lexus RZ

    The Lexus RZ, the brand’s first fully electric SUV, will debut early in 2025. With a dual-motor setup producing a combined 230kW, the RZ accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds. It offers a range of 450 km and features a luxurious interior, ensuring a premium driving experience. Local specifications are yet to be finalized.

    Advertisement
    Image: Lexus

    Key Features of Upcoming Cars

    ModelTypePower OutputRange (km)Expected Price (ZAR)Special Features
    Audi A6 e-tronElectric SedanUp to 320kW700TBD100kWh battery, aerodynamic design (0.21 drag coefficient)
    BAIC BJ30Petrol/Hybrid SUVUp to 246kW, 550NmTBDTBD14.6-inch infotainment screen, hybrid option available
    BYD SharkPlug-in Hybrid Bakkie320kW, 650Nm100 (electric)~R750,000First PHEV bakkie, competitive pricing
    Jaecoo J6Electric SUVUp to 279kW, 385Nm401-501TBDMassage seats, 15.6-inch touchscreen
    Kia TasmanDiesel Bakkie154kW, 441NmTBDTBDFour-wheel drive, eight-speed automatic
    Lexus RZElectric SUV230kW, 435Nm450TBDLuxurious interior, dual-motor AWD

    A Promising Year Ahead

    The cars set to launch in 2025 highlight the exciting evolution of the automotive industry, blending innovation, efficiency, and style. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast, a fan of rugged bakkies, or someone seeking luxurious SUVs, the year ahead promises to deliver on all fronts.

    Related article: OMODA and JAECOO: Exciting New SUVs Coming to South Africa in 2025

    Advertisement
    Share.