Chery names its first bakkie Grootman
Chery has named its first bakkie for South Africa Grootman, a name chosen by South Africans. The model is planned to make its local debut in the first quarter of 2027.
- Product News
- 2 October 2026
Ford Approved has now modernised its services through several refinements that have been implemented to ensure a more complete and rewarding customer experience.
Ford Approved is Ford’s pre-owned showroom for those customers seeking a quality used vehicle.
The used vehicle showroom has been continually expanding through Ford’s existing dealer network and is currently represented around the country by no less than 94 dealerships, with around 1 800 vehicles listed on the Ford Approved website.
The entire Ford Approved experience now also carries a more distinctive look and feel that echoes its premium value and product offering, according to the manufacturer.
One of the many advantages of Ford Approved is the enhanced online functionality thanks to its new website, www.fordapproved.co.za. The website is faster and more intuitive - allowing you to even filter cars in different colours.
Commencement of the trade-in process can now be done on the upgraded website before the final inspection of the vehicle is completed at the dealership. This saves the customer valuable time and allows for finance to be initiated in a seamless, digital process.
Test drives can then be arranged at the customer’s convenience. Additionally, customers can purchase extended service plans on any of the vehicles.
“Circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic have placed more economic strain on individuals and families and have contributed to significant growth in the used car market,” says Eben Swart, Ford Approved Manager.
“The demand for our vehicles has significantly increased in this segment and we want to be top of mind when people are considering a pre-owned vehicle. With Ford Approved we strive to give customers the same experience and professional service as they would receive when buying a new vehicle from Ford,” he says.
For added peace of mind, all vehicles listed by Ford Approved further include the following checks:
Balance of service or maintenance plan; 12 Months roadside assistance; maximum age and mileage of 5 years and 120 000 km and a 160-point quality check.
South Africa’s new vehicle market recorded aggregate domestic sales of 61 645 units in September 2026, an increase of 12.7% compared with the 54 706 units sold during September 2025.
SA Auto Week 2026 is scheduled to take place in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, from 13 to 16 October, with the event marking five years of SA Auto Week.
South Africa’s domestic new-vehicle market strengthened in September, recording 61 645 sales, its highest monthly total of 2026. Sales increased by 3 747 vehicles, or 6.5%, from August’s originally reported total and were 12.7% higher than in September 2025.