By ROBIN MEYERS
It’s been a busy week in motoring, with new SUVs, familiar names making a comeback and manufacturers pushing the boundaries of technology. Closer to home, I also attended the launch of the new Chery Q in Gqeberha.
Here’s what caught my attention this week.
Chery Q makes its Gqeberha debut
On Saturday, 24 October, I headed to Chery Gqeberha in Circular Drive for the launch of the new Chery Q, hosted by the Kelston Motor Group.
It’s always good to see Nelson Mandela Bay getting a piece of the automotive action. With electric vehicles becoming an increasingly important part of the industry, the Chery Q adds another option to the conversation.
Of course, whether electric motoring makes financial and practical sense for South Africans remains the big question. But it’s encouraging to see these vehicles arriving on our doorstep.
HAVAL H7 brings some serious competition
GWM has introduced its all-new HAVAL H7, offering six derivatives across petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
The flagship Hi4 model delivers an impressive 280 kW and 670 Nm, reaching 100 km/h in a claimed 5.8 seconds.
With bold styling, plenty of technology and pricing starting at R554,900, it’s another reminder that Chinese manufacturers are no longer simply competing on affordability.
The Freelander is back!
Remember the Freelander? Well, it’s making a comeback, although not quite as we remember it.
Chery and Jaguar Land Rover have collaborated on the FREELANDER 8, a plug-in hybrid SUV producing up to 460 kW.
The new model promises serious off-road capability alongside modern technology, with its international rollout beginning in 2027.
South African availability hasn’t been confirmed, but I’m certainly interested to see where this partnership goes.
Hyundai means business
Hyundai has introduced its Mighty GT11 commercial truck, aimed at South Africa’s logistics and transport sectors.
Powered by a 3.8-litre Cummins turbodiesel engine, it’s designed with reliability and operating costs in mind.
It might not have the glamour of a luxury SUV, but vehicles like these keep businesses moving, and that’s just as important.
A word on vehicle safety
The Automobile Association raised concerns this week about manufacturers using demonstration crash tests as marketing exercises.
The AA specifically questioned a Chery Group demonstration involving a Tiggo 7, reminding motorists that promotional crash tests aren’t substitutes for independent safety assessments.
It’s a worthwhile reminder: when buying a vehicle, always look beyond the marketing and check recognised safety ratings.
Until next week…
From powerful hybrids to electric newcomers, the industry certainly
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