BMW has once again asserted its dominance in the South African automotive landscape, with the locally assembled BMW X3 clinching the prestigious 2025 South African Car of the Year (COTY) title. This marks a significant milestone for the X3, as it secures this accolade for the first time, following two days of intensive evaluation by a panel of seasoned local motoring journalists in March.

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The X3’s triumph extends BMW’s legacy as the most decorated brand in the COTY competition’s history. The German automaker now celebrates consecutive wins, having taken home the 2024 title with its flagship 7 Series. BMW’s history with the award dates back to 1988, when the 735i earned the brand its first victory.

Assembled at BMW’s Rosslyn facility near Tshwane, the current-generation X3 impressed judges with its well-rounded offering, blending refinement, advanced digital technology, and commendable value for money. Its standout design and the strength of local production were also pivotal in securing the top spot.

Suzuki Swift Takes Second Place

Coming in second was the fourth-generation Suzuki Swift, a favourite in the local market known for its affordability and reliability. The latest model garnered praise for its significant safety upgrades, including six airbags across all variants — a notable improvement over its predecessor.

BMW M5 Earns Third Place and Special Recognition

Rounding out the top three was the BMW M5, now featuring hybrid technology for the first time. This performance sedan combines its iconic twin-turbocharged V8 with the ability to drive in electric-only mode under certain conditions. The M5 also earned the Jurors’ Choice Award, a special commendation from the judging panel recognising standout vehicles in the lineup.

Category Winners Across the Board

In addition to the overall winner, the COTY Awards also honoured standout models across various segments:

Budget: Suzuki Swift
Family: Volkswagen Tiguan — Recognised for premium features like massaging seats, typically reserved for more luxurious models
Premium: BMW X3
Executive: BMW 5 Series (G60) — Celebrated for its exceptional ride quality and upmarket interior
Adventure Utility: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (J250) — Applauded for enhanced comfort and off-road prowess
Performance: BMW M5

Mahindra XUV 3XO Wins People’s Choice

The Mahindra XUV 3XO captured the public’s attention, earning the 2025 Motor Enthusiast “People’s Choice” Award. Voters cited its contemporary design, strong fuel efficiency, and generous list of standard features as key reasons for its popularity.

The 2025 COTY results highlight not just the strength of established players like BMW and Suzuki, but also the growing appeal of emerging contenders such as Mahindra. As BMW celebrates another chapter in its award-winning history, the automotive landscape in South Africa continues to evolve, driven by innovation, local manufacturing excellence, and a deepening connection with everyday motorists.