The highly anticipated 2025 South African Car of the Year (COTY) competition, hosted by the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) and proudly sponsored by Old Mutual Insure, is in full swing. This prestigious event, which showcases the best in safety, design, technology, and innovation in motorising, is set to crown the ultimate vehicle of the year at a gala event in May this year.
The 2025 COTY competition brings together vehicles across the spectrum, from budget-friendly models to high-end luxury offerings, ensuring a diverse lineup that caters to all South African motorists. As the automotive landscape evolves with advancements in sustainability, electric mobility, and driver-assist technology, this year’s finalists represent the cutting edge of automotive engineering.
Innovation, Safety and Performance – The Core of COTY 2025
COTY 2025 is more than just a competition; it’s a platform that drives conversations about automotive excellence, road safety, and technological advancement. As vehicles continue to evolve with cutting-edge safety systems, electrification, and AI-driven enhancements, this competition underscores the importance of informed vehicle choices for South African consumers.
In support of the COTY 2025 campaign, By leveraging emotional storytelling, practical driving advice, and expert insights, the company promotes road safety and responsible driving, aligning with its broader commitment to protecting South African drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and communities.
With content ranging from interactive videos and expert-led educational segments to impactful stories from survivors and automotive influencers, Old Mutual Insure effectively fosters safer driving practices nationwide.
Meet the New Finalists and Expert Jury
This year’s competition introduces an exciting selection of new finalists, carefully evaluated by a distinguished panel of 26 jurors, each bringing a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives to the evaluation process. This esteemed group comprises seasoned automotive journalists, industry experts, and independent judges, all dedicated to recognising excellence in the automotive industry.
Track Day – March 2025: Performance Meets Precision
The finalists underwent rigorous testing during the official COTY Track Day in March 2025, where jurors assessed handling, braking, acceleration, safety features, and overall driving experience. This crucial phase will determine which vehicles truly stand out in their respective categories.
Gala Event – May 2025: Announcing the Winner
Following months of meticulous evaluation, the grand winner of the 2025 Car of the Year competition will be announced at an exclusive gala event in May. This prestigious ceremony will not only celebrate the winning vehicle but also highlight the technological advancements and safety innovations shaping the future of mobility in South Africa.
A Competition for Motor Enthusiasts
COTY is not just for industry professionals—it’s a celebration of motoring passion. South African car enthusiasts, everyday drivers, and industry insiders eagerly follow the competition, weighing in on their favourite models and participating in the public voting process, via the official Old Mutual Insure COTY website.
Influencer Partnerships Driving the Conversation
To amplify the competition’s reach, Old Mutual Insure is collaborating with prominent automotive content creators, including Kriya Gangiah, Matthew Kanniah, and Mpho Maboi. Their unique and diverse perspectives and expert insights will bring the excitement of COTY 2025 to a broader audience across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and other digital platforms.
For all updates, visit: https://ominsurecoty.co.za
