Potchefstroom residents, gear up! The annual CarsAwards by Cars.co.za is back for its seventh year, aiming to shine the spotlight on the best car purchasing propositions for the South African market. As car prices soar, making an informed choice has never been so critical. We dissect the offerings to provide some local insights.
What Makes CarsAwards Unique?
Amasi Mwela of Cars.co.za highlights the awards' commitment to guiding consumers using expert opinions and real-world feedback. Hannes Oosthuizen, leading the project since 2015, notes the CarsAwards' adaptability to South Africa's changing automotive preferences, especially the growing interest in crossovers and SUVs.
The Finalists & Categories
39 vehicles from 18 brands are finalists, including upcoming models with enough data for evaluation. Oosthuizen emphasizes the importance of affordability in today's economy, yet notes the continued demand for premium SUVs. Despite a declining sedan market, CarsAwards introduces a category for affordable electric vehicles, acknowledging the sector's potential growth.
Spotlight on Brands
Toyota and BMW lead the finalist count with five contenders each. However, GWM’s sub-brands, Haval and Ora, are not far behind, along with Suzuki. The Ora 03 Super Lux stands out as South Africa’s most affordable electric vehicle.
Finalists
Entry-Level Hatch (Priced below R250 000)
Compact Hatch (Priced from R250 000 to R350 000)
Budget Hatch (Priced from R350 000 to R500 000)
Entry-Level Crossover (Priced from R300 000 to R400 000)
Compact Family Car (Priced from R400 000 to R500 000)
Compact Family Car (Priced from R600 000 to R800 000)
Premium Crossover (Priced from R700 000 to R1 million)
Executive SUV (Priced from R1 million to R1,3 million)
Premium SUV (Priced from R1,3 million to R1,8 million)
Adventure SUV (Priced from R800 000 to R1,2 million)
Preformance Car (Below R1 million)
Leisure Double Cab (Above R800 000)
Electric Vehicle (Below R1,3 million)
Final Stages
The 39 finalists will undergo rigorous testing at Gauteng's famed Gerotek proving ground. An illustrious panel, including representatives from Cars.co.za and various domains, will evaluate the vehicles on 2 and 3 November 2023.
The judges for the 2023/24 CarsAwards are:
Ashley Oldfield (Cars.co.za)
David Taylor (Cars.co.za)
Gero Lilleike (Cars.co.za)
Ciro De Siena (Cars.co.za)
Jacob Moshokoa (EWN)
Wendy Knowler (Consumer Specialist – 702/Cape Talk/Sunday Times)
Brenwin Naidu (Sowetan, Sunday Times)
Muzi Sambo (Independent – Youtube)
MrHowMuch (Independent – Youtube/Social)
Rebaneilwe Semakane (Social, Voice of Wits)
Juliet McGuire (Independent – Cape Talk)
Nafisa Akabor (Tech Expert)
Phuti Mpyane (Business Day)
Lerato Matebese (Top Gear)
Kumbi Mtshakazi (Kumbi-M on Cars)
Mpho Mahlangu (Independent – Social)
Tshidi Malebana (Independent – Social)
Sibonelo Myeni (uKhozi FM, iMoto)
Brendon Staniforth (Maroelamedia)
Clement Manyathela (702)
Wrapping Up
As the CarsAwards approach, Potchefstroom residents get valuable guidance for car purchases. These awards keep consumers updated in South Africa's changing automotive scene, ensuring choices that suit their needs and budget. Drive safely, Potchefstroom!
