South Africa’s Best-Selling Car Brands in January 2025: A Detailed Breakdown

South Africa’s automotive industry is off to a strong start in 2025, with new car sales revealing some interesting trends. Toyota remains the dominant force, while Suzuki continues to climb the ranks. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers are making serious inroads into the market. Let’s take a closer look at the top 15 best-selling car brands in South Africa for January 2025 and what’s driving their success.

1. Toyota – 12,152 units

Toyota remains South Africa’s best-selling car brand, selling more than 12,000 units in January alone. The Hilux, Corolla Cross, and Fortuner continue to dominate their segments, offering a mix of reliability, strong resale value, and extensive dealer support. Toyota’s strong fleet and government sales also contribute to its commanding lead.

2. Suzuki – 6,399 units

Suzuki has solidified itself as the go-to brand for budget-conscious buyers. With affordable, fuel-efficient models like the Swift, S-Presso, and Grand Vitara, Suzuki’s market share keeps growing. The brand’s combination of low running costs and attractive pricing makes it a favorite among first-time buyers and city commuters.

3. Volkswagen Group – 5,676 units

Volkswagen remains a major player in South Africa, with strong sales of the Polo Vivo, T-Cross, and Tiguan. However, increasing competition from Suzuki and Hyundai in the small car segment is making it harder for VW to maintain its usual dominance. Audi models also contribute to the group’s overall sales.

4. Hyundai – 2,760 units

Hyundai continues to attract buyers with well-priced, stylish, and feature-packed models like the i20, Creta, and Venue. With a strong after-sales service and competitive warranty, Hyundai is a reliable choice for those looking for an alternative to Japanese and European brands.

5. Ford – 2,467 units

Ford’s sales are largely driven by the Ranger bakkie, which remains a favorite among South Africans looking for a tough and capable workhorse. The Everest SUV is also performing well, offering a premium alternative to competitors like the Fortuner and Pajero Sport.

6. Chery – 1,913 units

Chinese automaker Chery has rapidly gained traction with its stylish and tech-loaded SUVs. Models like the Tiggo 4 Pro, Tiggo 7 Pro, and Tiggo 8 Pro offer premium features at highly competitive prices, making Chery one of the fastest-growing brands in the country.

7. GWM – 1,756 units

Great Wall Motors (GWM) is another Chinese brand making waves, with strong sales in both passenger cars and bakkies. The P-Series bakkie is gaining popularity among South African consumers looking for an affordable, well-equipped alternative to the Hilux and Ranger. The Haval Jolion and H6 SUVs also continue to perform well.

8. Isuzu – 1,733 units

Isuzu remains a strong player in the commercial and bakkie market, with its rugged D-Max leading the charge. Known for its durability and reliability, Isuzu continues to be a top choice for businesses and individuals needing a tough workhorse.

9. Mahindra – 1,463 units

Mahindra’s sales are fueled by the success of models like the Scorpio-N, XUV700, and Pik Up bakkie. The brand is gaining a reputation for offering robust, reliable vehicles at competitive prices, making it an increasingly attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.

10. Kia – 1,428 units

Kia continues to perform well in the South African market, thanks to models like the Sonet, Seltos, and Sportage. The brand’s stylish designs, generous warranty, and strong safety features make it a solid contender in the mid-size SUV and hatchback segments.

11. Renault – 1,409 units

Renault’s budget-friendly lineup, including the Kwid, Triber, and Kiger, remains popular among entry-level buyers. While Renault may not be the biggest player in the market, its compact cars offer excellent value for money.

12. BMW Group – 1,184 units

BMW maintains its position as a leading luxury brand in South Africa, with strong sales from models like the X1, X3, and 3 Series. The rise in demand for hybrid and electric vehicles has also benefited BMW, as it expands its lineup with more electrified options.

13. Nissan – 1,162 units

Nissan continues to be a reliable presence in South Africa, with sales driven by the Navara, Magnite, and Qashqai. While Nissan’s numbers aren’t as strong as some competitors, the brand remains a respected choice for both passenger cars and bakkies.

14. Omoda & Jaecoo – 743 units

The newly introduced Omoda C5 and Jaecoo J7 have started making an impact in South Africa. These premium Chinese sub-brands focus on futuristic styling and high-tech features, appealing to young, style-conscious buyers. Expect their sales to grow in the coming months.

15. Jetour – 451 units

Jetour, another rising Chinese brand, is starting to establish itself with models like the X70 and Dasheng. As more consumers explore affordable alternatives to traditional brands, Jetour is expected to gain more traction in the local market.

Key Takeaways from January 2025 Car Sales

Toyota remains the undisputed market leader, selling nearly double the number of cars as its closest competitor, Suzuki.

Suzuki’s continued growth is a major talking point, proving that affordable, fuel-efficient cars are in high demand.

Chinese brands are making serious moves—Chery, GWM, Omoda, and Jetour are all gaining market share, offering feature-packed vehicles at competitive prices.

Bakkies remain a staple in South Africa, with brands like Toyota, Ford, Isuzu, and GWM fighting for dominance in this lucrative segment.

Luxury brands like BMW are holding strong, while brands like Renault and Nissan are maintaining steady but modest sales.

Final Thoughts

The South African car market is more competitive than ever, with a mix of established players and rising brands battling for consumer attention. With Toyota leading the charge, Suzuki surging, and Chinese automakers expanding their presence, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for car buyers.

What are your thoughts on the latest car sales rankings? Which brand are you rooting for? Let us know in the comments!