Budget-friendly models dominate SA's used car market

South Africa’s used car market recorded one of its strongest months in August 2025, with sales climbing to 34,402 vehicles. According to AutoTrader, this represents a +8.5% year-on-year increase and a +5.7% month-on-month rise, underscoring consumer demand for value-driven purchases over luxury vehicles.

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Toyota, Ford and Volkswagen dominate

Toyota retained its position as South Africa’s most popular used car brand with 5,778 units sold, followed by Volkswagen (4,768) and Ford. Suzuki and Hyundai rounded out the top five.

The Ford Ranger maintained its long-held title as South Africa’s best-selling used vehicle, with 1,994 units sold in August, followed by the Toyota Hilux (1,640) and the Volkswagen Polo (1,400). The Polo Vivo (1,312) and Suzuki Swift (813) completed the top five.

While premium brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz struggled to hold their positions in the top 10, smaller hatchbacks and affordable crossovers recorded significant growth. Hyundai’s Grand i10 sales surged +109.9% year-on-year, while the Toyota Corolla Cross and Suzuki Swift climbed +48.5% and +36%, respectively.

“What stands out in August’s sales data is not just the growth, but the resilience of South Africa’s used car market,” said George Mienie, CEO of AutoTrader.

“Consumers are showing discipline by choosing vehicles that balance affordability, efficiency, and long-term value. This points to a more mature market dynamic.”

Top 10 best-selling used models – August 2025

1. Ford Ranger – 1,994 sold | Avg. price: R484,463 | Avg. mileage: 84,866 km | Avg. age: five years
2. Toyota Hilux – 1,640 sold | Avg. price: R471,036 | Avg. mileage: 107,196 km | Avg. age: five years
3. Volkswagen Polo – 1,400 sold | Avg. price: R275,852 | Avg. mileage: 67,920 km | Avg. age: five years
4. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 1,312 sold | Avg. price: R206,614 | Avg. mileage: 50,962 km | Avg. age: four years
5. Suzuki Swift – 813 sold | Avg. price: R200,189 | Avg. mileage: 37,993 km | Avg. age: three years
6. Toyota Fortuner – 757 sold | Avg. price: R489,086 | Avg. mileage: 100,046 km | Avg. age: six years
7. Isuzu D-Max – 567 sold | Avg. price: R436,680 | Avg. mileage: 71,159 km | Avg. age: three years
8. Toyota Corolla Cross – 536 sold | Avg. price: R383,439 | Avg. mileage: 28,498 km | Avg. age: two years
9. Hyundai Grand i10 – 529 sold | Avg. price: R191,146 | Avg. mileage: 43,744 km | Avg. age: three years
10. Toyota Starlet – 508 sold | Avg. price: R236,378 | Avg. mileage: 38,655 km | Avg. age: two years