VW Cross Up to debut at the Geneva Motor Show

Volkswagen has expanded its range of Cross models with the new Cross Up which will be showcased at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The VW Cross Up joins the Cross Polo, Cross Golf and Cross Touran which have been a big success in Europe. Cross models are defined by their rugged design as well as their tough lifestyle qualities. The VW Cross Up is not destined for South Africa.

VW Cross Up is dynamite in a small package

Engine Capability

The VW Cross Up is equipped with a 55kW, 1.0-litre, three cylinder engine and is combined with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Exterior and Interior Features

The exterior features black mouldings on the wheel arches and sills while full length door protector strips are draped with ‘Cross Up’ lettering to create a sporty look.

Further enhancements include silver roof rails, wing mirrors in a light silver metallic finish and bumpers that incorporate the silver theme. The robust sporty frame is defined by the extra ride height and ‘Cross’ 16-inch alloy wheels with a high sheen finish.

Interior Features

Inside, the VW Cross Up features an instrument panel with a high-quality dash pad in a choice of red, black, or dark silver. The kick plates and seats are detailed in Cross Up! lettering in a special trim and come in a choice of red or anthracite. The steering wheel and handbrake lever are covered in leather.

Standard Options

Standard options include remote central locking, electric front windows, fog lights, electrically adjustable heated wing mirrors, an asymmetrically split-folding rear seat with headrests, a variable-height boot floor, a rev counter, a multifunction display and ESC electronic stability programme.

Audi S3 Sportback to debut at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

The Audi S3 Sportback has been confirmed to make an appearance at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show which starts on 5 March. The newly overhauled 2.0-litre engine delivers notable performance and the S3 Sportback weighs 70kg less than the previous model, thanks to its lightweight construction.

Audi S3 Sportback is lighter and consumes less fuel than before

Engine Capability

The Audi S3 Sportback is fitted with a 2.0-litre TFSI engine that delivers 221kW and 380Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or the optional 6-speed S tronic transmission. In S tronic guise, the Audi S3 Sportback sprints to 100km/h in 5 seconds while the manual transmission takes five-tenths of a second longer. Top speed is governed at 250km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.9-litres/100km with the S tronic transmission while in manual guise consumption is rated at 7.0-litres/100km. The engine therefore consumes 1.5-litres less per 100km when compared to the previous S3 Sportback.

The Audi S3 Sportback is also equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive as well as a re-designed multi-plate clutch which allows for quicker acceleration and remains stable in all conditions, including rain and snow.

Handling Features

In addition to the S sport suspension which lowers the car by 25mm, the axle-load distribution and the new progressive steering contribute to enhancing the handling dynamics of the vehicle. The Audi S3 Sportback is also fitted with 18-inch wheels which provide sufficient grip. The Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) reflects the latest-generation technology.

The Audi S3 Sportback is also fitted with Audi drive select which controls the characteristics of the electric gas pedal, shift points of the optional S tronic transmission and the steering ratio of the progressive steering. The driver pushes a button to specify whether these systems should operate in comfort, auto, dynamic or efficiency modes. The ‘individual’ mode is added on models equipped with the MMI Radio. The optional Audi magnetic ride system, which regulates the shock absorbers, is also controlled via Audi drive select.

The Audi S3 Sportback can be expected in South Africa later in 2013

Chevrolet Spark EV headed for Europe

The Chevrolet Spark Electric Vehicle (EV) was first shown at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show and will now be shown at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March before being released for sale in Europe in 2014. The Chevrolet Spark EV is anticipated to set the benchmark for urban electric vehicles and is powered by the most advanced electric motor and battery system General Motors has ever built.

Chevrolet Spark EV takes electric motoring into the future

EV Capability

The Chevrolet Spark EV is equipped with a permanent magnet electric motor and a lithium-ion battery system with an active liquid cooling and heating system. Together, the system generates 100kW and 542Nm of torque which will see the Spark EV sprint to 100km/h in under 8.5 seconds. The Chevrolet Spark EV is expected to achieve best-in-class range for an electric car and the battery pack has been engineered to enable both regular alternate current (AC) and direct current (DC) fast charging.

Direct current (DC) fast charging will allow the Spark EV to recharge up to 80% of its capacity in about 20 minutes while alternate current (AC) recharging will take between 6 and 8 hours using a 230V outlet. A charging cord comes standard with the Spark EV.

Standard Features

The interior features a column-mounted instrument cluster that incorporates one of two large 7-inch, full-colour LCD screens. The second display is located in the centre stack serving as an interface for the infotainment, climate control and energy-efficient data. The Chevrolet Spark EV is equipped with Chevrolet MyLink connected radio technology as standard and allows users to connect compatible smartphones to the radio together with the high resolution touchscreen.

Chevrolet MyLink will support a number of select apps which will allow users to navigate using their smartphone and listen to radio stations across the world using the internet. A rear-view camera is also standard.

In addition, MyLink users who own a compatible iPhone running iOS6 will be able to utilise Siri, an advanced assist system, which performs a number of tasks while the driver keeps eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

The Chevrolet Spark EV will not be available in South Africa.

Chevrolet Cruze Hatch 1,6 LS (2013) Driving Impression

The Chevrolet/Opel conundrum continues to trouble General Motors. As the company starts to emphasise Chevrolet as its global brand, Opel is expected to play more of an upmarket and niche role. Yet, at the same time, the German car maker has to make available its technologies and expertise to the Bowtie. The result? Cars that are strikingly similar, yet with Opel priced higher. Is it a strategy that can work? Many commentators suggest it can’t, but for the consumer the benefit is a range of Chevrolets that offer excellent build quality and good pricing. A car such as the new Cruze hatchback can do much to up the brand’s profile in South Africa, even though it could come at the cost of the rebuild of Opel…

Smart looks

The Cruze hatch certainly has good genes. It gets the front-end of the recently updated Cruze sedan (note the more sharply angled fog lamp surrounds), as well as the striking profile of the Opel Astra hatchback. The result is a handsome and upmarket-looking hatchback that also appears quite different to anything else on the market. Like the Astra it is based upon, the Cruze has short overhangs and a relatively long 2 685 mm wheelbase. It is more than 80 mm shorter in body length that the sedan and rides on neat 16-inch alloys. With its long, sloping roof and stylish rear lamps, the Cruze hatch is particularly attractive from the rear.

Given its underpinnings and donor vehicles, the Cruze’s interior doesn’t bring any surprises. It’s a spacious car, with good rear leg- and headroom, the latter improved by an extended rear roof section. The boot too, is handily sized at 413 L.

Most impressively, the facia design and finish it among the best in this segment, with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and even attractive cloth inserts of the facia. As with all Cruze’s the V-shaped centre section with its neatly integrated controls and the sporty instrument pods catch the eye. It’s car that feels and looks more upmarket than its badge and even its price would suggest. And Chevrolet has been fairly generous with the standard features, too. Included are; air-conditioning, electric mirrors, radio/CD player, stylish multi-function steering wheel, cruise control and height-adjustable driver’s seat. The safety package is also very comprehensive, and includes six airbags, rear Isofix child seat mounts and ESP (electronic stability system).

Lazy performance

The overall impression of refinement continues once you start driving the Cruze, but besides being quiet and smooth, as well as economical (6,7 L/100 km), the engine disappoints in the performance stakes. It delivers a good 91 kW and 155 Nm, but the vehicle’s weight, gearing and the fact that the torque arrives only at 4 000 rpm, conspire to give it quite lazy performance. The 0-100 km/h time of 12,8 seconds is certainly among the worst of its peers. But, for a lot of people this will not be of much importance and the aforementioned attributes of refinement and economy will be far higher rated. Regarding the five-speed transmission – it generally provides nice shifts, but perhaps a sixth is needed for more economical cruising.

On the road, the Cruze hatch is an impressively sorted motorcar. The NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) is truly impressive, with the cabin being quiet and even wind noise being kept at bay in a manner which would befit a larger, more expensive car. With generous rake and reach adjustment from the steering wheel (another upshot of having Opel as a sibling), as well as a height-adjustable seat, the driving position should be spot-on for most.

The seats and quietness are not the only reasons why the cabin is such a comfortable place to be. The suspension is impressively sorted – even though there is no multi-link rear suspension as on the Golf, body control is good and the Cruze manages to iron out road imperfections very well with its suppleness. Given its relatively lazy performance, dynamic sharpness is obviously not a high priority, but nevertheless, the Cruze is a stable, confident handler with good steering weighting and confidence-boosting braking. It should make for a great all-rounder – city slicker and family car.

Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback – Verdict

The Chevrolet Cruze is a very good new offering in a very competitive segment – remember, it is up against Golf, Focus, Civic and, not to mention, Astra. Aesthetically it is an appealing alternative, and its best attributes of refinement, built quality and comfort will go down well with a large portion of shoppers in this segment. Does it, however, bring anything new to the segment? Would it not have been better for General Motors to focus its efforts on making Opel as competitive as possible in a segment where it already has a long history, and Chevrolet doesn’t? From the sidelines we’d suggest it is a good car, but that the Astra is at least as good, and stands a better chance with proper support. General Motors may have come up with a good car, but we’re not sure it’s good General Motors itself…

We like:

  • Good looks
  • Rear cabin space
  • Standard equipment
  • Comfort levels


We don’t like:

  • Performance


Fast Facts

Engine: 1,6-litre, four-cylinder, petrol
Power: 91 kW @ 6 000 rpm
Torque: 155 Nm @ 4 000 rpm
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Wheels: 16-inch alloy
Top speed: 190 km/h
0-100 km/h: 12,8 seconds
Fuel Economy: 6,7 L/100 km

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

  • Opel Astra 1,6 Essentia: Shares its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Cruze and is arguably even better looking. Similar equipment levels, as well as power, and yet the Opel the feels the nippier car.
  • Volkswagen Golf 1,6 Trendline: The Volkswagen is a pricier product, and truthfully if you can stretch this far you can just as well go for the 1,4 TSI model, which has the better engine. Still, really classy product.
  • Toyota Auris 1,6 Xi: The new Auris is a vastly more appealing product than before, with an interesting interior design and quite dramatic exterior. It’s also livelier than its rivals here, and boasts a good standard specification.

McLaren P1 interior shown ahead of 2013 Geneva Motor Show debut

McLaren has for the first time revealed official images and details of its P1 supercar’s interior ahead of its production debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The McLaren P1 aims to be the best driver’s car in the world both on the road and track and to achieve that, McLaren has created a cabin that is efficiently packaged and comfortable for the driver.

McLaren P1 – Interior Features

According to McLaren, the P1’s interior feels like the cockpit of a fighter jet and features a glass canopy overhead with a windscreen that is deeper than it is wide for enhanced visibility. The P1’s lightweight design is carried over into the cabin with minimal switchgear yet retaining luxury features such as full climate control, satellite navigation and a Meridian sound system.

Apart from the extensive use of carbon-fibre for the MonoCage chassis and body panels, the interior is also adorned in carbon fibre. Carbon fibre is light and is used for the dashboard, floor, headlining, doors, rockers and a single piece is shaped for the central control unit to further optimise weight. The top layer of resin has been removed, giving the carbon fibre a non-lacquered look while saving 1.5kg in weight.

Limited trim has been used in the interior, leaving many parts exposed and there is no interior sound deadening, which further reduces the overall mass. Carpets are offered as an option and are fitted with a special lightweight backing. The racing bucket seats use minimal foam and are encased in ultra-thin carbon fibre shells and mounted on lightweight brackets and runners and weigh only 10.5kg. The seat backs are fixed to 28 degrees from the vertical but can be set to 32 degrees to make them more suitable for racing to create more headroom for a helmet. Fixings for six-point race harnesses are in place in addition to inertia reel seat belts.

The steering wheel diameter is technically precise as a McLaren racing driver’s wheel and the rim is finished in Alcantara with carbon fibre inserts.

Further details of the McLaren P1 will be made available when the Geneva Motor Show kicks off on 5 March 2013.

Suzuki Swift Sport Review in South Africa

The Suzuki Swift Sport is the flagship in the Swift range and is a completely different animal when compared to its lesser siblings. The base model Swift is an excellent city car as it offers value-for-money, decent specification as well as excellent reliability. However, as great as the Swift is, there is one problem as it doesn’t really offer anything in the excitement department.

Suzuki Swift Sport Review by David Taylor

Mature successor to the original pocket rocket

Enter the Suzuki Swift Sport – a grown-up go kart for the road. In a world of expensive turbo hot hatchbacks, having fun while driving is becoming rather difficult. These days, you would have to spend around R300, 000 for a half decent sports car or hot hatch. The Suzuki Swift breaks that mould by offering bang-for-buck performance in a simple and affordable package. The original Sport was a hoot to drive but was let down by a combination of two doors, which was impractical as well as a five-speed gearbox which made highway cruising a noisy affair.

The Suzuki Swift Sport looks like an extra from the Fast and The Furious franchise

The Suzuki Swift Sport looks vastly more aggressive than the standard Swift. With a wicked yellow paintjob, big wing on the boot, bodykit, sporty alloy wheels and twin exhaust pipes, the Swift Sport looks like something out of an arcade racing game. It attracts lots of attention and fortunately it has the go to match the show.

Old-school performance meets modern day economy

Underneath the bonnet of the racy Suzuki Swift Sport is a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine. This engine, thanks to some special tuning, delivers 100kW and 160Nm. In a small car that doesn’t weigh much, this amount of power is rather good fun. The engine loves to be revved and comes alive if you let the revs climb past the 4,000 mark. On paper, the Swift Sport can hit 100km/h in under 9 seconds. Even though it’s sporty, it’s surprisingly light on fuel and a figure of 6.8L/100km after a week of rigourous driving was a great surprise.

Makes you feel like a driving god

Its real forte is the ability is to fly though mountain passes at speed thanks to its precise, sporty six-speed gearbox and racing suspension. The drawback of a racing suspension is that it tends to be hard on a day-to-day basis, but Suzuki has struck a perfect balance between sportiness and comfort. This is a car that makes you feel like a racing driver and when you get it right, it offers one of best driving experiences this side of a supercar.

The Swift comes with impressive levels of standard equipment

The Suzuki Swift Sport costs R213,000 – a bargain when you consider the fun factor and the specification. For a city car, the Sport comes loaded with kit. There are xenon headlights, climate control, keyless entry, USB/iPod connectivity and racing bucket seats. It’s safe too, thanks to excellent brakes, stability control and airbags for driver and passenger.

Suzuki Swift Sport – Conclusion

The Suzuki Swift Sport perfectly underlines the fact that you shouldn’t be spending close on half a million Rand if you want a machine that scythes through highway passes like a super car. Not only does it make you feel like a racing driver, it also offers all the comfort and features of a decent B-segment runabout.

Suzuki Swift Sport – Price

Suzuki Swift Sport price as tested: R213,000

  • Why you should: Brilliant value for a performance vehicle, handles like a go-kart, great engine, loads of kit, looks fantastic especially in yellow.
  • Why you shouldn’t: Nothing. Yet another Suzuki scores very highly. Yes, it really is that yellow.
  • It would be better if: the boot was a little bigger, I could afford one right now.
  • View the Suzuki Swift Sport: New / Used
  • Competitors worth checking out: Fiat Abarth, Renault Twingo Gordini, Citroen DS3, Mini Cooper

Opel Astra OPC launched in South Africa

GM South Africa has added the Opel Astra OPC, the most powerful production Astra ever produced, to its passenger vehicle range in South Africa. The new Astra OPC joins the Corsa OPC in Opel’s small and compact performance hatchback segments.

Opel Astra OPC – Specifications and Features

Engine Capability

The latest model from the Opel Performance Centre (OPC) is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine that generates 206kW at 5 500rpm with a maximum torque figure of 400Nm at between 2 500 and 4 500rpm. The Opel Astra OPC runs from 0-100km/h in 6 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. Average fuel consumption is rated at 8.11-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 189g/km.

Exterior Styling Features

The exterior is designed with a sporty profile that is enhanced by the incorporation of a carefully sculpted aero treatment. The front and rear bumpers, side skits and aerodynamic roof spoiler with two fully integrated trapezoidal-shaped exhaust tail pipes define the vehicles external shape.

The Opel Astra OPC is enveloped by three styling lines that define the silhouette. First is a fine crisp line that sweeps downward from the front door to the bottom of the rear fender to energise the body side. The second of the three lines encapsulates the door handle and flows to the rear to emphasise the dramatic stance of the OPC by spreading the surfaces to a fine undercut and broad shoulder. The third styling line follows the clean silhouette of the roof.

Additional standard features include 20-inch alloy wheels fitted with 245/35 R20 tyres, more robust side-skirts, a two-tier rear spoiler and a body colour bar across the radiator grille.

Interior Styling Features

Inside, the driver’s cockpit is defined by the flat-bottom leather-covered steering wheel and light-weight high-performance type bucket seats that can be adjusted in 18 ways. The Opel Astra OPC is trimmed with full leather upholstery with OPC stitching in Arden Blue or Cool Pearl. The Astra OPC comes with Bi-Xenon front headlights, front fog lights and daytime running lights with automatic headlight control and adaptive forward lighting.

Other features include Satellite controls for the audio and lock control on the steering wheel and a climate control air conditioner. Airbags include driver, passenger, side seats and roof curtain airbags. Also, the car comes equipped with FlexRide driver selectable performance characteristics and safety features such as Brembo high performance brakes, adjustable HiPerStrut damping, ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), remote central locking, ultrasonic alarm/immobilizer and a vehicle inclination sensor.

The infotainment area features a premium 7-speaker audio system with RDS radio and front loading CD, MP3, Aux input, Bluetooth connectivity and USB port. Seven display modes are available including analogue instruments, a G-force meter, a digital display, over and understeer indicator, a bar chart, a line graph and map.

Opel Astra OPC – Price

Model Price
Opel Astra OPC R435 000
Opel Astra 1.6 Essentia R231 000
Opel Astra 1.4T Essentia Plus R248 000
Opel Astra 1.4T Enjoy R257 000
Opel Astra 1.6T Sport R298 500

Prices include a 5-year/90 000km Service Plan and a 5-year/120 000km warranty. All prices include VAT and CO2 Tax.

Alfa Romeo 4C to make Geneva debut

The Alfa Romeo 4C, the brands latest creation, will make its debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show early next month. The rear-wheel drive coupe gets its name from ‘four cylinders’ with inspiration derived from the 8C and 6C race cars from the 1930’s and 1940’s. The Alfa Romeo 4C was designed and produced at the Maserati plant in Modena, Italy, and marks the return of the brand to the U.S. as well as Alfa Romeo’s global growth plan.

Alfa Romeo 4C ready to take on the world

Engine Capability

Although Alfa Romeo has not provided performance figures yet, it is known that the 4C will be powered by the new 4-cylinder 1750 Turbo Petrol engine which features direct fuel injection, dual continuous variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a revolutionary scavenging control system that eliminates turbo lag. The engine will be mated to an Alfa TCT automatic twin dry-clutch transmission with manual switching made possible with shift paddles behind the steering wheel.

The Alfa Romeo 4C for the first time debuts the new Alfa DNA selector with four driving modes including Dynamic, Natural, All Weather and Race, depending on the driver’s preferences.

Design Features

The overall design was influenced by iconic models of the past, but most notably, the 33 Stradale played a major role in terms of dimensions and layout, which combined mechanical and functional requirements that ‘clothed’ the engine and chassis in unmistakable Alfa Romeo treatments. The Alfa Romeo 4C reflects compact size, agility and dynamism. The interior is designed and built for maximum driving pleasure and the central cell is made from carbon fibre to enhance the sense of uniqueness.

The Alfa Romeo 4C is 4 metres in length, 2 metres wide and stands 1.18 metres tall with a wheel base of 2.4 metres. The dimensions emphasise the compact nature of the vehicle and accentuates its agility.

Further details will be made available when the Alfa Romeo 4C makes its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Toyota Land Cruiser Review

The Toyota Land Cruiser is the preferred choice for miners and farmers in the most desolate areas. Toyota ads a double cab while we wait for the V8 Diesel.

Toyota Land Cruiser review by John Beale

Finally, the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser series has received a much-needed update, as well as the addition of a double cab to the range. South Africans pick the comb out of your socks and rejoice!

Toyota Land Cruiser first impressions

Arriving for the launch at George, we were greeted by the entire range, made up of a single cab, station wagon, wagon (or UN ambulance as I termed it) and double cab. Taking the route out towards the Karoo, I was expecting the typical “sports bra” ride, but was actually pleasantly surprised. Look, it’s no magic carpet ride, but the suspension (live axles front and rear, with coil springs at the front and leaf springs at the rear) isn’t as HUMVEE as you’d expect. There’s now central locking, electric windows all round, Sat Nav (in DC & SW), stereo, air-conditioning and electric mirrors. The rear seats in the DC are a bit tight for adults and the bench is upright but this is expected. We took the double cab through a combination of typical undulating surfaces, ruts, axle twisters and then some rather large rock river-bed climbing ensued.

Powertrain and performance

Our unit was the 4litre petrol producing 170kW at 5600RPM and 360NM at 3800RPM. The perennial 4.2litre diesel also does service in the double cab, however I have it under good authority that a V8 diesel will make an appearance for those who need more torque and power. I found the diesel a bit lacking when we had to haul uphill. Due to it being a petrol, some revving was needed to maneuver the vehicle over some of the terrain but we got through most of it with very little wheelspin or damage to the environment. The DC comes standard with those UN spec steel wheels. Spec the alloys, unless you want kids hanging out at your window waiting for food parcels or peace.

Land Cruiser features and specifications

All models come standard with diff lock, five speed manual gearbox and four-wheel drive system with low-range transfer box. The petrol engine has excellent anti-stall in 1st and 2nd in low range. The longer rear and step bars take some getting used to when off road, but front approach angle is excellent. Fuel consumption in the petrol suffered a bit during the rock-smacking (no trip function), but I would guess “guzzling/100km” would be close enough. Turning circle is good, but there is a vagueness about the steering that took a little time to get used to.

High ground clearance of 230mm for the wagon and 235mm for the rest of the range. The Toyota Land Cruiser is tough, and you can feel everything has been put together well. I love the simplicity and utilitarian nature of these vehicles, even driving long distances on dust roads, we had no dust creep into the cabin, which is testament to the build quality. This said, simple doesn’t have to mean cut down, as the range has had some significant upgrades:

  • 4-Wheel disc brakes with ABS (which disengages when diffs are engaged) now std.
  • Central locking & electric mirrors now standard
  • Fuel tank size grows to 130 / 180 litres in some cases

Note that the DC receives a 130litre tank but does not come standard with alloy wheels (As pictured, they are optional)

Toyota Land Cruiser conclusion

The double cab is a worthy addition to the range and will do those that require the extra passenger hauling ability justice in any place on earth.

Toyota Land Cruiser – Price

Toyota Land Cruiser DC 4litre petrol – R463 900

Toyota Land Cruiser DC Diesel – R487 000

  • The LC 70 series models come with Toyota’s 3year/100 000km warranty
  • View the Toyota Land Cruiser: New / Used

Used Car Analysis in South Africa for January 2013

Used car statistics derived from Cars.co.za in January 2013 have revealed interesting results in terms of the used car market in South Africa and the interests of the South African public towards particular used cars and brands on offer. In January 2013 a total of 3 009 357 vehicle views were made on Cars.co.za. Here is a breakdown of the most popular used cars as well as the most popular used car brands in South Africa for January 2013.

Top 10 most popular used cars in South Africa for January 2013

Make and model Total Views Used Car Market Penetration
1. VW Polo 167 117 5.6%
2. BMW 3-Series 125 527 4.1%
3. VW Golf 90 387 3.0%
4. Toyota Corolla 67 216 2.2%
5. Toyota Hilux 64 358 2.1%
6. Mercedes-Benz C-Class 61 896 2.1%
7. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 45 897 1.5%
8. Audi A4 44 783 1.5%
9. Toyota Yaris 44 503 1.5%
10. BMW 1-Series 41 628 1.4%

Not only was the VW Polo the most sought after used car in 2012, it has also come out top in the month of January 2013 with a market penetration of 5.6% which reflects its popularity in the used car market. Interestingly, the VW Polo is also the second best-selling new car for January 2013 according to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers in South Africa (NAAMSA).

The BMW 3-Series is rated as the second most sought after vehicle in the used car market with a market penetration percentage of 4.1%. The BMW 3-Series was the brand’s best selling new car for 2012. The Toyota Hilux makes it into the top five for January 2013 with a market penetration percentage of 2.1% and is considered to be South Africa’s best selling bakkie in the new car market. South Africa’s best selling new car, the Polo Vivo, is ranked 7th in the used car market with a market percentage of 1.5%.

Top 3 most popular used car brands in South Africa for January 2013

Used Car Brand Total Views Used Car Market Penetration % New Car Market Penetration*
1. VW 333 963 11.1% 19.1%
2. Toyota 176 077 5.9% 18.6%
3. BMW 167 155 5.6% 4.2%

* According to official NAAMSA sales figures for January 2013

According to Cars.co.za, Volkswagen is considered to be the most popular car brand in the used car market in South Africa with a market penetration percentage of 11.1%. Comparatively, in the new car market in January 2013, Volkswagen holds top position with a market share of 19.1%. Volkswagen’s long-time rival, Toyota, is placed second in the used car market with a 5.9% market penetration. Toyota was however the best-selling new car brand in 2012. Interestingly, BMW holds a greater market presence in the used car market with a penetration percentage of 5.6% compared to 4.2% in the new car market in January 2013.

Cars.co.za will continue to collate used car statistics throughout the duration of 2013 with the emphasis of expanding existing knowledge of the used car market in South Africa.