CAR magazine’s distinguished annual Top 12 Best Buys were presented at a gala dinner in Johannesburg on Wednesday evening. Look out for our upcoming April 2020 issue for the full article and rationale behind each decision.
Top 12 Best Buys is our definitive guide to the very best cars in South Africa. As a reminder, here is our judging criteria:
Only vehicles that the majority of the eight-member CAR editorial team has driven: We factor in the findings of road tests and driving impressions we’ve published up until this April issue. Don’t see your favourite in the running? The CAR team might not have driven it yet, with a number of important vehicles launching locally just too late to meet the deadline.
Ranges, not individual models: Except in the Budget and Performance Car segments, we consider an entire range, not merely one outstanding example. Also, remember that we measure cars against their direct rivals in their classes and then rule on their relative levels of excellence.
We consider all the facets: We look at package, personality, performance and, most importantly in the more value-led categories, price.
The bun fight … and then the vote: We set aside a day for the team to debate, argue and arm wrestle over the contestants. Then we draw up a list of six finalists per award and vote.
So, here are all the winners…
Budget car (under R185 000): Hyundai Atos 1,1 Motion
Small car: Volkswagen Polo Vivo
Midsize car: Toyota Corolla Quest
Premium midsize car: BMW 3 Series
Luxury car: Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Performance car: Porsche 911 Carrera S PDK
Small SUV/crossover: Volkswagen T-Cross
Midsize SUV/crossover: Volkswagen Tiguan
Premium midsize SUV/crossover: Volvo XC60
Large SUV/crossover: Kia Sorento
Luxury SUV/crossover: BMW X5
Double-cab bakkie: Ford Ranger
Company of the Year: Toyota South Africa Motors
