A new Chinese car brand, bad news for diesel users, and a recall for the Ford Ranger and VW Polo

These were the five biggest stories in South Africa’s transport industry this week.

New Chinese SUV coming to South Africa – What to expect

Lepas has announced that the new L4 SUV is coming to South Africa.

Lepas (a combination of the words “leap” and “passion”) is the latest brand to emerge from the Chery Automotive Group.

The carmaker is scheduled to make its local debut in 2026 with two cars, the L4 and the L8.

Bad news for diesel users

Motorists can expected mixed results for the fuel price adjustments this August.

According to the Central Energy Fund, petrol users should see a reduction in the price of fuel.

Diesel users, on the other hand, can expect another round of hikes at the pump.

New Chery Tiggo 7 launched in South Africa

Chery has officially launched the updated Tiggo 7, giving the car a fresh look and new features.

The new models have dropped the “Pro” suffix and are available in three specifications with prices starting at R429,900.

It is available with both the 1.5-litre turbocharged engine used by the Tiggo 7 Pro, and the 1.6-litre turbo found on the Tiggo 7 Pro Max.

Big win for Ford buyers

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa plans to invest R900 million in its local infrastructure over the next three years.

The investment will greatly expand the brand’s dealership network while improving its existing facilities.

The company aims to futureproof its operations, which directly employ more than 10,000 people in South Africa.

2 carmakers issue recalls in South Africa

VW and Ford have notified customers of recalls affecting thousands of cars sold in South Africa.

Volkswagen issued a recall for the Polo Sedan, which was discovered to have incorrectly fitted seatbelts, compromising passenger safety.

Ford, meanwhile, has recalled the EcoSport, Puma, Everest, and Ranger for mechanical issues that risk engine failure and other problems that increase the risk of an accident.