The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists proudly presents an extraordinary lineup of 17 finalists for the 2025 Car of the Year, marking the competition’s most innovative selection in its 39-year history. From the pioneering GWM P500 HEV—the first hybrid bakkie finalist—to the all-electric Volvo EX30, from the muscular Ford Mustang GT to the globally acclaimed Suzuki Swift, these exceptional vehicles represent the pinnacle of automotive excellence across every category. Each finalist will now undergo comprehensive testing at Zwartkops Raceway by our expert jury to determine the ultimate winner.

Budget & Compact

GAC GS3 EMZOOM

GAC GS3 EMZOOM

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Suzuki Swift

Suzuki Swift

Compact Family

Jaecoo J7

Jaecoo J7

MINI Countryman

MINI Countryman

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

Family

BMW X3

BMW X3

Omoda C9

Omoda C9

Premium

BMW 5 Series Sedan

BMW 5 Series Sedan

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (E 220d)

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (E 220d)

Volvo EX30

Volvo EX30

Luxury

BMW M5

BMW M5

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance

4×4

GWM P500 HEV

GWM P500 HEV

Mitsubishi Triton

Mitsubishi Triton

Adventure SUV

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Performance

Ford Mustang GT

Ford Mustang GT