The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) has unveiled the new Car of the Year (COTY) Committee for the 2026 competition, proudly sponsored by Old Mutual Insure.
As custodians of South Africa’s most prestigious and longest-running automotive award, the COTY Committee is charged with steering the competition that celebrates excellence and innovation in motoring. The panel brings together some of the country’s most respected automotive journalists, each a powerhouse in their own right and part of the larger Jury pool that will determine the coveted category winners.
For the second year running, Thami Masemola returns as COTY Chairman. The 2026 Committee are:
- Thami Masemola – IN4RIDE, Radio 2000, Power 987
- Melinda Ferguson – City Press, Cape Talk
- Jason Woosey – IOL
- Sibonelo Myeni – Imoto Media, Ukhozi FM
- Brendon Staniforth – Maroela Media
“I’m incredibly proud to work alongside such a distinguished and diverse group,” said Masemola. “This team embodies the very best of South African motoring journalism who are experienced, passionate, and committed to keeping COTY fair, credible, and exciting. With Old Mutual Insure’s steadfast support for the fourth year in a row, we are energized to take COTY to new heights.”
Old Mutual Insure echoed the sentiment. “The SA Car of the Year competition sets the benchmark for automotive excellence,” said Presodhini Naicker, Executive: Marketing & Communication of Old Mutual Insure. “We’re thrilled to once again support a platform that celebrates the innovation and craftsmanship driving our motoring industry forward.”
The 2026 competition will crown the successor to the reigning champion, the new BMW X3. With more than 60 new models already launched and still to launch in 2025, the race is officially on. The selection process is underway, with the incoming SAGMJ Jury set to evaluate and vote for the year’s most outstanding vehicles. Testing days are scheduled for March 2026, where the category winners – and ultimately South Africa’s next Car of the Year – will be determined.
