Chinese car industry notches up first Car of the Year win in SA as T2 takes the crown
The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) has selected the Jetour T2 as the 2026 Car of the Year (COTY).
The T2’s selection marks the first-ever victory for a Chinese brand in the yearly event’s forty- year history.
The T2 was one of seven Chinese brands and 18 vehicles competing for honours.
The vehicle also claimed victory in the Mild Adventure category.
Another Chinese vehicle, the Omoda C7, was selected as the winner in the Family (on-road) category.
In the Compact category, the Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI claimed the gold medal.
The Adventure category was won by the Land Rover Defender OCTA.
The Audi A5 secured the win in the Premium category.
In another boost for the German luxury brand, the Audi RS Q8 proved too good to beat in the Performance category.
The Chery Tiggo 7 was crowned winner of the 2026 Old Mutual Insure Car of the Year Motor Enthusiast People’s Choice Award, as voted for by the public.
The winners of the 2026 COTY competition were selected through a process that began with more than 55 qualifying vehicles launched in 2025.
SAGMJ chairperson Mabuyane Mabuza congratulated all winners and entrants of the 2026 COTY competition.
“We are humbled by our continued success and our ability to adapt to the evolving South African automotive landscape while serving car buyers and stakeholders nationwide.
“We thank all manufacturers, distributors, business partners and guild members for honouring the spirit of South Africa’s premier motoring event.”
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