BMW X3 Named 2025 South African Car of the Year

The 2025 South African Car of the Year has been announced, and the honours go to a vehicle that many South Africans already know and trust: the BMW X3. Produced right here in Mzansi at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn near Pretoria, the X3’s win is more than just an industry accolade. It’s a homegrown success story with global impact and a sign of the continued excellence in South African automotive manufacturing.

And, if you want to experience the award-winning SUV for yourself, Drive South Africa offers customers the BMW X3 as a rental vehicle across the country. Read on to learn more about the BMW X3 – plus five destinations that’ll make for epic road trips in this spectacular car.

What Makes the BMW X3 a Winner?

The BMW X3 excelled in every category, impressing judges | Photo: BMW South Africa

Awarded by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) and sponsored by Old Mutual Insure, the Car of the Year Awards evaluate vehicles on design, innovation, performance, and how well they meet the needs of the local market. The BMW X3 excelled in every category, impressing judges with its balance of cutting-edge technology, versatility, and premium quality.

Available in both plug-in hybrid and petrol variants, the X3 reflects BMW’s flexible approach to powertrains – giving drivers the choice between classic combustion and greener alternatives without compromising on performance. The SUV’s refined ride quality, smart interior tech, and everyday usability make it an appealing choice for a wide range of South African motorists, from city commuters to weekend road trippers.

A South African-Built Global Player

The BMW X3’s COTY win is a nod to the increasing relevance of locally-manufactured vehicles in a global market | Photo: BMW South Africa

Since October 2024, the BMW X3 has been rolling off the production lines at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn, a facility with a long and proud history in South Africa. The reintroduction of a third production shift at the plant underlines not just local demand but the X3’s growing popularity globally. For South African consumers, this means direct access to a vehicle that’s built to the highest standards – right on home soil.

As Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa, notes:

“The overall Car of the Year win for the locally-produced BMW X3 reinforces our efforts to remain focused on delivering quality products that resonate with South Africans and to continue striving for engineering excellence.”

The Significance for South African Drivers

The BMW X3’s COTY win is a nod to the increasing relevance of locally manufactured vehicles in a global market, but it’s also a reflection of what South African drivers value: quality, reliability, and versatility. With more people turning to SUVs for everyday use – especially for road trips, family holidays, or rural travel – the X3 ticks all the right boxes.

Five Road Trip Destinations Perfect for the BMW X3

The BMW X3’s smooth handling, spacious interior, and advanced driving features make it an ideal choice for exploring South Africa’s scenic drives | Photo: BMW South Africa

The BMW X3’s smooth handling, spacious interior, and advanced driving features make it an ideal choice for exploring South Africa’s scenic drives. Here are five top road trip destinations you can enjoy without leaving the comfort of the tar:

1. The Garden Route (Western and Eastern Cape)

Stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River, the Garden Route is a favourite for good reason. The N2 coastal highway offers well-maintained tar roads and access to towns like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Wilderness. Enjoy ocean views, forest drives, and excellent restaurants without venturing off-road.

2. The Panorama Route (Mpumalanga)

This circular drive around Graskop and Sabie is tarred all the way and packed with attractions like God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the Blyde River Canyon. The X3’s responsive engine and elevated driving position come into their own on these winding mountain roads.

3. Cape Winelands (Western Cape)

Take the N1 from Cape Town and head into the winelands of Stellenbosch | Photo: getty

Take the N1 from Cape Town and head into the winelands of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. Smooth highways and picturesque secondary roads make this route a pleasure to drive. The X3’s refined ride suits the region’s laid-back but elegant pace.

4. Durban to the Midlands Meander (KwaZulu-Natal)

Hop onto the N3 north of Durban and explore the Midlands Meander’s tarred routes linking art galleries, farm stalls, and boutique lodges. This is an easy and comfortable drive through rolling hills with no gravel detours required.

5. Pretoria to Sun City (North West Province)

Sun City is just over two hours from Pretoria via the R556 and N4 – both fully tarred. Whether you’re heading there for a family getaway or a round of golf at the Gary Player Country Club, the X3 offers a smooth, stress-free journey from city to resort.

Hire the BMW X3 with Drive South Africa

If you’re looking to get behind the wheel of the Car of the Year, Drive South Africa offers the BMW X3 for rental | Photo: BMW South Africa

If you’re looking to get behind the wheel of the Car of the Year, Drive South Africa offers the BMW X3 for rental. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip, a weekend escape, or simply want to experience one of the most highly rated vehicles in South Africa today, the BMW X3 delivers the comfort, safety, and performance you need.

Experience the award-winning BMW X3 for yourself – book your next South African road trip with Drive South Africa.