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

GAC GS3 EMZOOM

GAC GS3 EMZOOM

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Mahindra XUV 3XO

Suzuki Swift

Suzuki Swift

Family

Jaecoo J7

Jaecoo J7

MINI Countryman

MINI Countryman

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

Premium

BMW X3

BMW X3

Omoda C9

Omoda C9

Volvo EX30

Volvo EX30

Executive

BMW 5 Series

BMW 5 Series

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Performance

BMW M5

BMW M5

Ford Mustang GT

Ford Mustang GT

Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance

Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance

Adventure Utility

GWM P500

GWM P500

Mitsubishi Triton

Mitsubishi Triton

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado