Some good news?? Hmmm, I'm not so sure...

So after many dicussions with the Traffic Dept and SARS, it appears that I don't need to go through all that hassle after all... there are two routes you can take to bring your car into South Africa, here they are with the pros and cons:

1. Import your car and document it via SARS/Customs
When your car reaches SA, Customs will clear it and give you a form (SAD 500) which, along with the other documents allows you to legally bring your car into the country, and more importantly, use it on SA roads without registering it etc.
Pros: No more paperwork to do at the Traffic Dept! Also, the clearing agent will do most of the work for you.
Cons: The temporary import permit is valid for a period of 6 months, after which it must be renewed (your clearing agent should do this for you). But as long as it's renewed regularly, it can go in indefinitely (I think). Also you must lodge a deposit with SARS for up to 80% of the value of the car. You get this back once you leave SA or become a permanent resident.

2. Carnet de Passage (via the AA in South Africa)
The Carnet is basically a passport for your car, and allows you to bring it into South Africa and use it. Only the AA in South Africa can issue this, and it needs to be done before you leave the country (it may be possible to get this from the UK AA, but you'd need to check) as it needs to be available to the shipping agent. Again, you do not need to register or license the car to use it in SA.
Pros: Can be done in advance, and no visits to the traffic dept.
Cons: The Carnet is only valid for one year, and apart from some leeway if you are delayed in leaving (or becoming a permanent resident) it cannot be extended. You must lodge a deposit of 100% of the value of the car, although this can be done as a bank guarantee/indemnity, rather that paying over the cash.

You must remember that, which ever route you choose, you must carry the relevant paperwork with you at all times. If you are stopped at a roadblock, you will need to prove the car is in SA legally.

This is the story so far - I am skeptical because it suddenly seems so easy, so I am still checking around to see whether there are any nasty surprises lurking!!