In case you missed it, we’ve rounded up a selection of stories that have made motoring news headlines, both locally and globally, this week…
This week’s motoring news features major local launches, powertrain updates, and consumer alerts across the South African motoring sector. Key developments include a safety recall from Chery South Africa, mixed December fuel price forecasts, and regulatory approval for Isuzu’s 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine. Furthermore, Toyota and Hyundai expanded their local crossover lineups, while BYD’s Yangwang luxury brand revealed its flagship electric sedan.
Chery South Africa recall: Tiggo 4 Pro and Omoda C5 axle issue addressed
Chery South Africa has initiated a preventative recall campaign for select Tiggo 4 Pro and Omoda C5 units built between 6 June, 2022, and 31 December, 2023. Operating under global recall number S2026M0146V, the campaign addresses a potential rear-axle manufacturing defect that could cause a sudden loss of wheel control. Local workshops have received replacement parts to inspect production date codes and replace defective axle assemblies free of charge. Current showroom inventory originates from separate batches and remains unaffected by the fault.
SA fuel price forecast: Petrol to drop and diesel to rise in December 2026
Mid-month data indicates divergent fuel price adjustments for South African motorists in December 2026. Inland petrol prices are projected to drop, with 93 ULP/LRP falling to R27.85 per litre and 95 ULP/LRP dropping to R28.42 per litre. Coastal 95 ULP/LRP is forecasted to reach R27.55 per litre. Conversely, wholesale diesel prices face increases, with 500ppm rising to R32.34 per litre inland and 50ppm climbing to R33.24 per litre inland.
Isuzu 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine approved for South Africa
Isuzu has confirmed that its 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine is approved for the South African market, though an immediate launch is not planned. The single-turbocharged RZ4F MaxForce unit produces 120 kW and 400 N.m of torque from 1 600 r/min. The engine is paired with an Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission. For now, Isuzu South Africa continues to offer its existing 1.9-litre and 3.0-litre diesel powertrains with six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.
2026 Toyota Corolla Cross 60th Anniversary in South Africa: Pricing and specs
Toyota South Africa has launched the Corolla Cross 60th Anniversary edition at a starting price of R499 900. Available in Chromium Silver or Glacier White, this special edition adds a contrast black roof, roof cross bars, and model-specific exterior badging. Interior additions include commemorative scuff plates and an all-weather boot mat. A naturally aspirated 1.8-litre engine delivers 103 kW and 172 N.m through a CVT, achieving a claimed fuel consumption of 6.7 L/100 km.
Yangwang Altior breaks cover as China’s Rolls-Royce-rivalling luxury sedan
BYD’s luxury sub-brand, Yangwang, has unveiled the all-electric Altior flagship sedan at a global premiere in Abu Dhabi. Positioned to rival ultra-luxury sedans, the model features 1 209 mm of rear legroom, a 39-speaker Dynaudio sound system, and dual refrigerators. Integrated door compartments house bespoke umbrellas, while a 4 nm Xuanji A3 chip powers the ‘God’s Eye’ A driver-assistance suite. Production includes Executive and Bespoke trims, starting with the limited-run Shanhe Dingyun edition.
New Hyundai Venue pricing and specs
Hyundai has introduced the updated Venue compact SUV to South Africa across three derivatives. Pricing starts at R319 900 for the 1.2 Premium manual and rises to R349 900 for the 1.0T Premium DCT, which produces 71 kW and 172 N.m. The range-topping 1.0T N Line DCT costs R499 900 and delivers 88 kW. Both turbocharged models use a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Every model includes a seven-year/200 000 km warranty and a three-year/45 000 km service plan. Read our driving impression of the new model here.
