A celebration of multiple achievements and successes within the automotive industry took place on December 4th with the annual TopGear South Africa Magazine Awards. In partnership with Wesbank, the evening focused on the innovation, quality, and value that automakers have brought to the industry while also highlighting the best-in-class cars for their category.
WesBank's Head of Marketing and Communication, Lebogang Gaoaketse, commented on how strong the automotive sector had been throughout 2024. He also added: “The TopGear South Africa Magazine Awards provide a platform to recognise and celebrate the individuals and brands that stood out amongst their peers in driving the resurgence of the sector, and WesBank is proud to be part of this momentous occasion once more."
Hosted by local comedian and entertainer Jason Goliath, along with Letshego Zulu—published author and fitness and wellness specialist—the dynamic duo delivered an engaging night. What seemingly came naturally to both hosts, they managed to captivate the audience throughout the event with their charm.
The event was filled with excitement as attendees recognised the significance of the categories associated with the automotive industry. TopGear South Africa’s publishing partner, Avon Middleton, highlighted the uniqueness of the awards, stating that they’re not simply there to “tick a box.” The approach taken by TopGear SA in awarding individuals and vehicles goes beyond surface-level recognition, delving into various award categories to honour the vehicles that exceeded expectations. Key factors considered include innovation, quality, value, performance, and other less obvious attributes. Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge the individuals who have contributed to shaping the industry into what it is today.
There were 26 awards presented spread across several categories. Attendees from all parts of the industry came together in celebration of their success over the year. From brand managers to marketing directors, spokespeople, CEOs, and many more who have influenced and left an impact on the industry through hard work and team effort.
The Hyundai Exter wins ‘Bargain of the Year’ award
With intense competition in the compact SUV segment, the Hyundai Exter has proven itself, earning the prestigious ‘Bargain of the Year’ Award for 2024. The new Hyundai Exter launched in September 2024, imported all the way from India. There are a few variants of the Exter, allowing customers to choose from a wide range of affordable options. With pricing ranging from as low as R269,900 for the 1.2 premium MT model, up to R344,900 for the higher 1.2 Elite AMT model.
After the victory was announced, Hyundai Automotive South Africa had this to say on LinkedIn, “We are thrilled to announce that Hyundai South Africa has been awarded Bargain of the Year for the all-new Hyundai EXTER by Top Gear South Africa.” Stanley Anderson, Hyundai’s Sales and Operations Director, accepted the car award on the company’s behalf.
It’s clear that the recognition really demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to delivering value, innovation, and quality.
The Mitsubishi Triton wins ‘Bakkie of the Year’ Award
Just two weeks after launching the Next-Gen Triton, Mitsubishi was awarded ‘Bakkie of the Year’. At the event, the Triton was recognised for its unique styling, spacious cabin, and award-winning off-road capabilities — positioning it as the top contender in its category and segment.
The 6th-generation Triton made its debut in South Africa as recent as November, captivating bakkie enthusiasts with its rugged appeal. The brand-new model features a new chassis, a revised suspension setup, a redesigned interior, and a brand-new 2.4-litre turbocharged engine.
The Triton is available in both single-cab and double-cab models, with prices ranging from R479,900 to R889,900 (mid to higher-end variants).
Adding to their win, this is what Jeffrey Allison, General Manager of Marketing at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, had to say: “The South African bakkie market is extremely competitive, and for our Next-Gen Triton to win the TopGear South Africa Bakkie of the Year is a massive achievement and hopefully a hint at the success we expect from this excellent product in South Africa.”
Both Hyundai and Mitsubishi have long-standing ties with the Motus group. Known for their importer and retail partnerships with leading OEMs, Motus represents 23 passenger and commercial OEMs in South Africa.
TopGear SA Awards 2024 results
Categories and winners:
Everyone involved can be super proud of themselves, achieving the results that have come together is proof that the automotive landscape has the potential to grow.
Award |
Winner |
---|---|
EV OF THE YEAR |
YEAR Volvo EX30 |
EXECUTIVE SALOON OF THE YEAR |
YEAR Mercedes-Benz E220d |
4X4 OF THE YEAR |
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado |
ECO-WARRIOR OF THE YEAR |
Mercedes-Benz GLA200d |
BARGAIN OF THE YEAR |
Hyundai Exter |
ALL THE CAR YOU NEED |
BMW M3 Touring |
COOLEST FEATURE AWARD |
McLaren Artura-Spinning Wheel Pull-Away |
PERFORMANCE CAR OF THE YEAR |
Aston Martin Vantage |
HATCH OF THE YEAR |
Suzuki Swift |
MOST IMPROVED CAR OF THE YEAR |
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro DCT |
TECH INNOVATION OF THE YEAR |
Mercedes-AMG 2.0-litre turbo-hybrid engine |
INSTANT ICON AWARD |
The BMW M3 Touring |
END OF THE ROAD AWARD |
Audi R8 |
GT OF THE YEAR |
Bentley Continental GT Speed |
SURPRISE OF THE YEAR |
BMW M5 |
HERITAGE OF THE YEAR |
Toyota Land Cruiser 70-Series |
MARKETING EXCELLENCE AWARD |
Volkswagen South Africa |
MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR |
BMW South Africa |
NOISE OF THE YEAR |
Jaguar F-TYPE V8 |
MOTORING MOMENT OF THE YEAR |
The Red Bull Show Run |
FLEET COMPANY OF THE YEAR |
JOMU Promotions |
MOTORSPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR |
Jonathan Mogotsi |
PR OF THE YEAR |
Hailey Philander |
MOTORING TRAILBLAZER AWARD |
Toby Venter |
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD |
Roger McCleery |
(Prices correct at time of publication.)
Hyundai’s Exter crossover
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