Which models in South Africa’s competitive bakkie segment grew their sales year on year in Q1 2025 and which ones shrunk? We’ve crunched the numbers to find out…
While South Africa’s overall new-vehicle market grew 10.5% year on year to 144 426 units in Q1 2025, the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) segment declined 10.6% to 35 047 units over the same period. So, which bakkies improved their performance and which ones shed sales?
Well, we’ve spent some time crunching the numbers, comparing the Q1 2025 sales hauls of each of the market’s traditional bakkies to their respective efforts in the opening 3 months of 2024. What we found was that 7 contenders grew their registrations, year on year, while 7 shed sales.
Bakkies that gained sales year on year in Q1
Peugeot’s Landtrek sales increased 135.4% year on year on Q1 2025.
The Peugeot Landtrek was the bakkie that enjoyed the most robust year-on-year sales growth in Q1 2025, even if its increase came off a low base. In the opening quarter of the year, 226 units of the Landtrek – which moved up 3 rankings but still couldn’t crack the top 10 – were registered in SA, representing a 135.4% year-on-year improvement.
Meanwhile, Q1 2025 sales of the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 surged 72.0% year on year to 1 541 units, seeing the Japanese bakkie climb 3 places to 6th. The locally assembled Mahindra Pik-Up improved 36.4% year on year to 2 779 units, in the process making 4th place very much its own.
Now offered in 4-cylinder form, Toyota Land Cruiser 79 sales were up 72.0%, year on year.
Local registrations of the long-in-the-tooth Mahindra Bolero increased 31.4% (compared to Q1 2024), though its modest tally of 138 units meant this Indian-made bakkie nevertheless fell a ranking to 13th. The Rosslyn-built Nissan Navara moved up 2 spots to 5th, enjoying a 27.5% year-on-year increase in sales to finish on 1 545 units.
Finally, the Ford Ranger and Isuzu D-Max – which retained 2nd and 3rd, respectively – posted more muted growth. Local registrations of the Struandale-built D-Max increased 8.0% year on year to 5 587 units, while the Silverton-made Ranger (6 205 units) improved on its Q1 2024 tally by 2.5%.
Bakkies that lost sales year on year in Q1
GWM P-Series registrations fell 44.3% year on year in Q1.
Having placed 4th with nearly 5 000 units sold in the opening quarter of 2024, the Nissan NP200 tumbled to 14th in Q1 2025. With production having wrapped up at the Japanese firm’s Rosslyn plant in March last year, sales of what was Mzansi’s last surviving half-tonne bakkie plummeted 99.6% to just 18 units.
Interestingly, the GWM P-Series fell 2 rankings to 8th in Q1 2025, with local registrations of this Chinese contender slipping 44.3% year on year to 735 units. Again occupying the final spot on the list with just 12 examples sold, the Jeep Gladiator (which is awaiting a facelift) posted a 25.0% year-on-year sales decline.
Though Amarok sales fell year on year, VW’s bakkie moved up to 7th.
Meanwhile, Volkswagen Amarok sales slid 17.5% year on year to 798 units, though the German firm’s Ford-built bakkie still gained a place to finish 7th. The Mitsubishi Triton – having entered a new generation late in 2024 – also suffered a year-on-year decline, with sales falling 15.3% to 160 units (seeing the Japanese bakkie slip a spot to 12th).
Despite sales of the Toyota Hilux dropping 7.8% year on year to 8 163 units, the Japanese stalwart remained the market’s most popular bakkie in Q1 2025. Finally, the GWM Steed – which clung to 10th position – ended this reporting period on 318 units, representing a 2.5% decline compared with 2024’s opening quarter.
Triton sales fell 15.3% year on year despite the arrival of a new-generation model.
For the record, we were not able to include the JAC T6, T8 and T9 ranges in this exercise as the Chinese automaker reported only a combined number. However, we tallied up JAC’s total T-Series sales to 426 units, an increase of 14.5%, year on year.
In addition, note that the Mazda BT-50 exited the local market towards the end of Q1 2024, so isn’t represented here. Meanwhile, the Foton Tunland G7 returned to SA only towards the middle of last year, so no year-on-year change in sales is shown.
We chat with Corber Viljoen, the founder of Wat Swaai Jy, also known as Vintage Cars South Africa (VCSA) – a classic car dealership, -workshop, -transport and -storage provider – as well as an automotive enthusiasts centre, located in Pretoria East.
IMAGES: Stefan Kotze
Cars, coffee, a perfectly manicured garden with ponies and an inviting barn filled with cars and memorabilia – those are just some of the attractions offered by Wat Swaai Jy (informal Afrikaans for “What are you selling?”), which is situated in Pretoria East and has been operating since 2015.
This setup, which does resemble a farm in some ways, welcomes the entire family as there are animals for the kids to look at while the car enthusiast(s) in the family stroll through the cars on offer or visit the workshop. VCSA is arguably one of the most inviting car spaces we’ve ever visited in South Africa.
How it all started
The proprietor of Wat Swaai Jy (VCSA), Corber Viljoen, has a long history with old cars that dates back to when he was a little boy.
“I always liked old cars from a young age,” says Corber (shown above). “I was in Grade 7 when my grandmother bought me an old Volkswagen Beetle. I drove it (a little) while I was in high school, then I sold it and bought 2 Minis. I fixed them up, sold the 1 and then bought a Triumph.
“One thing led to another, and during my last year of school, I had 10 cars in mom’s driveway! Obviously, she didn’t think playing (and struggling) with these old cars was the ideal career choice for me.
“I became a pilot after school, but then I decided I’d have more fun on the ground with old cars than up in the air with planes. From Grade 9, I helped a friend of my late father at his panel beating business over weekends and during the school holidays. This is where I gained a lot of my old car knowledge.
“During the years I built up this classic car side hustle, I was an insurance broker. Then, about 5 years ago, I resigned to focus full-time on our business. I initially started small in my double garage, followed by renting a premises. I continued to buy cars, fixing them up and then selling them.”
The main Wat Swaai Jy (VCSA) building houses 2 long rows of cars. It’s here where you’ll find a wide variety of classic cars spanning several decades. These include models from American and European brands. Dig a little deeper and ask around, and you can even be shown some South African specials.”
What is on offer?
“We try to offer a wide range of classic and collectable cars,” adds Corber. “We have cars that trade for a few million rand, but most of our stock are notably more affordable and start from as low as R50 000 to R100 000. I focus a lot on the American cars, but also old Toyotas and even motorcycles, now and again.”
“We also strive to be a one-stop shop for clients. We purchased these premises around 3 years ago with that aim in mind. We built this 1 200 m2 warehouse to house the cars, and we also built a clubhouse and workshop (the Snorcity Speed Shop, shown below).
“In our workshop, we mainly work on our cars as we will only selectively do work for members of the public. I have a team of 5 mechanics in the workshop, and we can also do our own paintwork.
“Needless to say, we also have our own detailing shop (GRIT Detailing, shown below) that can do paint correction or any other type of detail work,” he adds.
Sourcing cars to sell is a full-time job, however. “I’m often on the road searching for potential cars to buy. That includes travelling to Cape Town and Durban,” says Corber.
“Sometimes, I buy package deals of 5 cars or more. We are also quite active on social media (Facebook and Instagram), where owners send us cars that they want to sell almost on a daily basis.
“We also have a few collections on our books. That means looking after cars and managing restorations, making sure work gets done, valuations are correct and that the vehicles are adequately insured.”
Needless to say, during Corber’s travels, he has seen some of the most impressive car collections in South Africa. He mentions that potential buyers can approach him if there is a specific car they are looking for, as he is likely to know where to find it or at least who to contact…
During our visit, we noticed a couple of classic short-wheel base Toyota Land Cruisers, 2 Minis and even a 1986 Audi 500SE with only 93 000 km (shown above)! When last did you see one of those?
There is also a 1977 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 Targa (below) and a variety of classic Mercedes-Benzes.
Corber explains that his business will sometimes offer a car to a client in an as-is condition (voetstoots) or give the prospective buyer the option to buy the car and then have repairs made or restoration work done to the vehicle. However, Wat Swaai Jy (VCSA) usually acquires cars that “don’t need a lot of work.”
“The clubhouse serves drinks and snacks for visitors to enjoy. We also have horses and ponies that attract a lot of attention from the kids. That was part of the idea behind the premises, to make it an attractive stop for the entire family,” Corber adds.
This is quite a unique setup, as most classic car-, and even new car dealerships are geared to serve and satisfy the needs of clients, not host their families. With the relaxed environment, together with the gardens, Wat Swaai Jy (VCSA) evidently has a unique approach that appeals to the entire family.
Corber does admit that he receives a lot of help from his team, most notably his wife: “My wife Nadia (shown above, on the left) joined the business full time 7 years ago. She manages a number of departments in the business. If she leaves tomorrow, then this place will collapse!”
When you browse the Wat Swaai Jy (VCSA) website, you’ll see a diverse range of products on offer. Listed vehicles range from American classics and rarities that they recently sold, such as a 1984 Toyota Hilux 2000 4×4 single cab, a 1972 Ford Fairmont XY GT, a few Ford Mustangs, motorcycles and even a 1959 Volkswagen Kombi (split-window). There is indeed a car to satisfy nearly all types of tastes.
Like its predecessor, the G45-series BMW X3 is proudly built in South Africa. The packaging of this rival to the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5 and other models isn’t as universally appealing as before, but will that bother the Bimmer’s target market?
We like: Excellent powertrain, value for money
We don’t like: Polarising styling, complex infotainment system, mostly good interior quality.
The G45-series BMW X3 looks a little slabby from some angles.
The BMW X3 has been a massive sales success for the Munich-based brand. It was BMW’s best-selling SUV – and model – in 2023, although its 3- and 4 Series siblings took top honours last year, while the G01-series Executive SUV was being run out in anticipation of the new G45-series model’s arrival.
With such an enviable legacy, the (G45) X3 has to be a “banker” model for BMW – it can’t be perceived as a radical departure from the (G01) X3. Well, under its sheetmetal, the newcomer certainly isn’t that different – it retains its CLAR platform, but sits wider, lower and is a little longer than its predecessor.
Its exterior design is another story. As the follow-up to the handsome G01-series X3, this model doesn’t hold quite the same visual appeal. Granted, the matte paint and larger wheels do help to a degree, and design is subjective, but our test team feels that elements such as the headlights and grille look fussy.
The front-end design, replete with an illuminated grille, is polarising.
If you have R1 million to spend on a new executive SUV, most of the models offered in this segment are good – and some are excellent. Therefore, separating the good from great is the major challenge…
The main rivals to the X3 are the Mercedes-Benz GLC and the Audi Q5, but it’s important to note that the latter will be replaced by an all-new model in late 2025. The Lexus NX was a 2024/25 Cars.co.za Awards finalist and well worth looking into if you favour luxuriousness over dynamism. You can also consider the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and the Volvo XC60, but bear in mind that those products are now past their prime.
Our testers have always maintained that despite the excellent diversity offered by the range of BMW X3 powertrains, a 20d derivative is likely all the Executive SUV that you’d ever need. The G45-series X3 sees the addition of 48V mild-hybrid tech to its internal-combustion engines.
The BMW X3 offers a variety of drive modes and -moods that cover so much more than the basics.
The 20d’s 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel produces 145 kW400 Nm, and the motor drives all 4 wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. There are various drive modes to choose from; they adapt the powertrain’s responses, as well as the cabin’s colour themes, but more about that a bit later.
On our test strip, things did not go as expected. Despite various attempts, the 20d xDrive M Sport test unit refused to activate its launch-start function – the best 0-100 kph time we recorded (8.57 sec) did not reflect the SUV’s performance potential (the manufacturer claims 7.7 sec). But, for what it’s worth, another publication set a time of 7.2 sec with the same vehicle. We don’t know what caused the glitch.
The instrument cluster adopts a futuristic aesthetic.
Fortunately, the Bimmer did not feel underpowered or lacking in urge at any point during its tenure in our test fleet. In its sportiest drive mode, the 20d xDrive M Sport‘s in-gear acceleration felt muscular and virtually instantaneous thanks to the hybrid system, which plugged any gaps in the torque delivery.
You can see an “e-boost” icon light up on the right of the instrument cluster when you accelerate hard. Also, if you need to summon all the power, simply hold the left shift paddle down for more BOOST: it will make the BMW engage its sportiest setting temporarily and bring up a red graphic on the digital cluster.
Hold the boost paddle to exact maximum thrust for 10 seconds.
If you want a 1-word description for the X3’s driving experience, it’s effortless. With plenty of shove available from low revs, there’s no need to mash the accelerator pedal – the 20d xDrive M Sport keeps pace with traffic with very little effort. There are nice-feeling paddle shifters on the back of the BMW’s multifunction ‘wheel, but the ZF ‘box is so well calibrated, they may gather dust from lack of use!
While keeping its revs as low as possible and leaning on its hybrid system in traffic, the 20d xDrive M Sportshould be very fuel-efficient – and it is! BMW says this variant ought to consume an average of 6.2 L/100 km (but carmakers’ claims tend to be too optimistic), yet after covering just over 700 km (during which we conducted performance testing and sat in a lot of traffic), the test unit indicated 6.6 L/100 km!
By the time we returned the X3 to its minder, it indicated an excellent average consumption figure.
With its 60-litre tank, the turbodiesel variant has a theoretical range of 968 km, but on its 1st day in our fleet, the fully-fuelled BMW (in its most efficient setting) indicated a distance to empty of over 1 000 km.
Ride and Handling
Given its versatile luxury family car role, the G45-series X3 is expected to handle competently on and off-road, but without sacrificing much in the way of ride (or cabin) refinement. The X3 nameplate has an admirable reputation in that regard; even the base variants of previous models have been engaging to drive briskly, yet retained notable composure on urban trips (such as the school run) and long journeys.
The BMW Individual 21-inch alloy wheels are a R30 000 option.
With just over 200 mm of ground clearance, the X3 is useful on gravel. However, if you’re going to be travelling extensively off-tar, we’d suggest opting for smaller rims with higher-profile run-flat tyres.
The optional aero-optimised 21-inch alloys wrapped in 255/40 Goodyears look great, but the low-profile tyres will be vulnerable, given the poor condition of some SA roads. Remember, there’s no spare tyre.
The infotainment graphics are crisp and detailed.
All G45-series X3s have all-wheel drive; previously, some (sDrive-badged) variants had rear-wheel drive only. The xDrive system splits propulsion 40% to the front axle, with 60% to the rear, but when the BMW loses traction, torque can be redistributed to the axle that has the most grip. This is useful when driving on loose surfaces, like dirt roads, but will also help keep the SUV surefooted when tar roads get slippery.
The M Sport trim grade includes a sportier (relatively stiffer) suspension setup, which does enhance this variant’s handling ability, but it’s something to be mindful of if you value on-road comfort. You see, with larger wheels and sporty damping, the X3’s ride quality can get a touch uncomfortable on coarser road surfaces. When the suspension absorbs road-surface impacts, they will thud through to the cabin.
All-wheel drive is now standard across the range.
As for the 20d xDrive M Sport‘s steering setup, it feels responsive, direct and confidence-inspiring (for a less-than-compact family car) – it’s easy to place the X3 on the road accurately. Because it offers such a hands-on driving experience, the X3 is likely to appeal to buyers who appreciate driver engagement.
Practicality and Features
The G45-series BMW X3’s cabin design represents a visual overload, with a plethora of illuminated surfaces and angular cutouts and panels; it seems several elements were lifted from the flagship BMW iX electric SUV. No, we’re not in the G01 anymore, but general ergonomics are sound. The cabin’s layout favours a minimalist approach, but all critical functions are located right where you’d expect them to be.
The BMW X3’s fascia is a progressive, futuristic design, with panels that light up. It feels very premium in the main.
As in most contemporary BMWs, the build quality is suitably premium. Areas that are likely to be touched often feel plush and substantial, and recycled materials are cleverly applied to cover up swathes of black plastic: the dashboard, for example, is wrapped in a textured fabric made from recycled fishing nets.
However, some elements, such as the door-mounted ventilation controls, feel marginal. We appreciate BMW’s novel execution of a mundane function, but it’s not user-friendly. Granted, the trim’s supposed to move, but it feels flimsy and out of place. We’ve been in a few G45-series X3s – they all have this quirk.
The panel that combines ventilation-, central locking- and seat position memory controls feels flimsy.
We’d also like to discuss the G45-series X3’s elaborate in-car ambient lighting. Yes, a futuristic cabin lighting setup will always be a talking point, but at what point does a brilliant lightscape go too far?
Every drive mode (or -mood) has a distinct theme. When Sport mode is active, the infotainment and instrument screens assume a red theme, which extends to the doors, centre console, and the wireless charging cradle! If you activate the hazard lights, most of these panels also flash in time. It’s a bit much.
The plethora of lighting themes is overkill, in our opinion.
Fortunately, beyond the, um, flashy light show, the 20d xDrive M Sport‘s cabin retains all the practicality that has endeared the model to our team and owners of previous generations of BMW’s executive SUV.
The X3’s wheelbase length and load capacity (570 litres) are on par with other models in the segment (top honours go to the GLC), but the BMW has the edge when the rear seats are folded. The claimed utility space is 1 700 litres, which is useful for loading up mountain bikes, golf clubs and push chairs.
There is more than sufficient occupant space at the rear.
The rear passengers are well catered for with a dual climate-control console, a pair of adjustable vents and a couple of USB-C ports (for recharging devices). While headroom is generous, the legroom is good, with indentations in the backs of the front seats freeing up a valuable few extra millimetres of knee room.
The G45-series BMW X3 supports over-the-air updates. We installed this upgrade during the review.
When it comes to tech and features, the X3 comes comprehensively equipped, but its digital interface is not that intuitive. The layouts of its infotainment- and instrument screens (powered by BMW Operating System 9) mimic smartphone or tablet menu systems. It all looks slick but isn’t the most user-friendly, and it’s frustrating to dive into a menu to perform as simple a task as adjusting the climate control.
Android Auto is wirelessly connected.
Over-the-air updates help to keep it all working efficiently. The update we installed during the BMW X3’s tenure in our test fleet, for example, implemented software enhancements that improved the stability of wireless Apple CarPlay integration and made the digital assistant more responsive (the system said).
A wireless charger and two USB-C ports are up front.
Although the infotainment system requires some familiarisation, we appreciated the ultra-crisp resolution of the screens and the display quality of the feed from the high-res parking cameras. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly, too, and the wireless charger cradle is neatly designed.
High-quality surround-view cameras are useful when manoeuvring the X3 into tight parking spots.
Our test unit came specced with a matte paint finish, 21-inch wheels (R30 000) and the Deluxe package (R45 000), which includes a tow bar, pano roof, Harman Kardon audio, and rear window blinds.
Price and After-sales support
The BMW X3 20d xDrive M Sport retails for R1 186 417 (before options, in April 2025), which includes a 2-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
“Evolution rather than revolution” may be a motoring journalism cliche, BUT it’s particularly relevant in the case of the G45-series BMW X3. Apart from a slightly firm ride, shouty interior lighting and a few minor trim issues, the 20d xDrive M Sport emulates its predecessor and improves on it in a few ways.
Should you buy one? Perhaps the biggest plus is the variant’s price compared with that of its G01-series predecessor. In October 2024, the X3 20d M Sport cost R1 137 731 before options, and 6 months later, it’s refreshing to see only a nominal price difference between variants of successive model generations.
Battle for 2nd place: Suzuki vs VW Group in Q1 2025
With Suzuki sales still soaring, has the budget-friendly Japanese brand pushed ahead of Volkswagen Group Africa in Mzansi? Let’s examine the Q1 2025 sales figures…
In the opening quarter of the year, South Africa’s new-vehicle market registered year-on-year growth of 10.5% to move to 144 426 units. When examining the automaker sales charts, Q1 2025’s battle for 2nd place is what stands out.
Yes, while Toyota SA Motors is predictably way out front with 35 555 units sold (a year-on-year increase of 6.2% and a hefty market share of 24.6%), Suzuki Auto SA has now officially pushed ahead of Volkswagen Group Africa to secure 2nd place.
Suzuki vs VW Group: total sales in Q1 2025
After finishing ahead of its German rival in each of the 3 months of Q1 2025, Suzuki ended this reporting period on a total of 17 727 units. Our calculations suggest this figure represents a 19.8% increase compared with the Hamamatsu-based firm’s performance in the opening quarter of 2024 (when it placed 3rd).
Meanwhile, local sales from VW Group Africa – which, of course, includes the Audi brand – dipped 1.5% year on year to 15 838 units. The Wolfsburg-based automaker’s local division thus found itself 1 889 units behind Suzuki and in an unfamiliar 3rd place (so, down a ranking from Q1 2024).
For perspective, it’s worth noting that in the full year of 2023, VW Group Africa was a comfortable 18 018 units ahead of Suzuki. However, in 2024 as a whole, the Japanese brand closed the gap to 6 912 units (not an insignificant number, but far closer). Though just a quarter of 2025 has passed thus far, Suzuki appears well placed – based on its current trajectory, anyway – to secure 2nd place overall in a full year for the very first time.
Does VW have anything in its arsenal to counter Suzuki’s sustained rise? Well, though the Kariega-built Polo Vivo remains extremely popular (though found itself just behind the Swift in Q1 2025 sales), the company will be hoping its next locally made model – a small SUV known as the Tera in Brazil but as-yet-unnamed for Mzansi – will add significant volumes. However, local production of that model is scheduled to start only in early 2027…
Other interesting stats from the top 10 in Q1 2025
What else happened on the list of SA’s 10 best-selling automakers in the 1st quarter of 2025? Well, Hyundai Automotive SA climbed 3 spots from its Q1 2024 ranking to grab back 4th place, with local sales increasing a healthy 25.3% year on year to 8 937 units.
Chinese firm Chery registered even stronger year-on-year growth of 28.7% to end the quarter on 5 739 units, moving up 2 rankings to 7th. However, it was Mahindra – which climbed from 12th to 9th – that boasted the most robust growth in the top 10, with the Indian firm’s sales surging a remarkable 71.9% year on year to 5 326 units.
Meanwhile, Nissan was the biggest loser in the top 10, falling from a strong 4th place in Q1 2024 to a lowly 10th in Q1 2025. With the NP200 half-tonne bakkie – which had served as the brand’s chief volume driver in Mzansi – having gone out of production in March 2024, the Japanese firm’s local sales in this latest reporting period declined 45.2% year on year to 4 962 units.
The facelifted Hyundai Tucson has arrived in South Africa and while the local line-up has been trimmed to 3 derivatives, the starting price has fallen by R39 000…
The facelifted Hyundai Tucson – with subtly updated styling, a revised interior and some extra standard equipment – has quietly hit the market in South Africa and we’ve managed to lay our paws on some early information, including pricing.
Revealed back in November 2023, the refreshed Tucson arrives in Mzansi a little later than scheduled. But local buyers will be pleased to hear that although the line-up has been trimmed from 5 derivatives to just 3, the range’s starting price has fallen by R39 000.
The refreshed Tucson in standard trim.
Yes, according to our information, the updated Tucson 2.0 Premium will start at R559 900, down from this pre-facelift derivative’s price of R598 900. Despite this price drop, the Premium grade gains features such as LED headlamps (with a “static bending” function), blind-spot detection, rear occupant alert, leather upholstery, a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen (replacing the old 8.0-inch item) and 18-inch alloy wheels (an inch larger than before).
However, from what we can tell, Hyundai Automotive SA has also quietly shortened the Tucson’s standard service plan from the previous 6-year/90 000 km arrangement to a 5-year/75 000 km service plan (again with intervals of 15 000 km).
Note the new 12.3-inch infotainment screen and instrument cluster with the same diameter.
From what we understand, the Premium grade’s naturally aspirated 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine is carried over unchanged, which means this atmospheric motor still delivers 115 kW and 192 Nm to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Meanwhile, the pre-facelift range’s 2.0 Executive (R655 500), 2.0 Elite (R729 900) and R2.0D Elite (R799 500) all seemingly fall away, with the new Tucson R2.0D Executive added as the mid-tier option, priced from R709 900. This trim level upgrades to 19-inch alloys and furthermore scores a smart key, push-button start and a powered tailgate, all features not present on the pre-facelift Executive variant.
A look at the rear end of the flagship N Line derivative.
We believe the 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is also unchanged, again sending 137 kW and 416 Nm to the front axle through an 8-speed automatic transmission. This powerplant also drives the Tucson R2.0D N Line AWD which again tops the local line-up, though pricing for this derivative has increased some R23 400 to R859 900.
Set aside primarily by its N Line styling package (inside and out) and the presence of all-wheel drive, the facelifted version of the flagship variant furthermore gains a Bose sound system. As a reminder, though the NX4-series Tucson was revealed as early as September 2020, it launched in South Africa only in March 2022, before the flagship N Line derivative joined the line-up in May 2023.
What does the facelifted Hyundai Tucson cost in SA?
Hyundai Tucson 2.0 Premium AT – R559 900
Hyundai Tucson R2.0D Executive AT – R709 900
Hyundai Tucson R2.0D N Line AWD AT – R859 900
The prices above include Hyundai’s 7-year/200 000 km warranty (comprising a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty and an additional 2-year/50 000 km powertrain warranty) plus a 5-year/75 000 km service plan with intervals of 15 000 km.
Swift leads, 3 models relegated: SA’s 10 best-selling cars in Q1 2025
With the opening quarter of the year gone, which cars and crossovers are leading SA’s passenger-vehicle sales charts? We’ve tallied up the numbers for Q1 2025…
South Africa’s new-vehicle market enjoyed a strong opening quarter of the year, with total industry sales increasing 10.5% year on year to 144 426 units. So, which cars and crossovers led the charge in Mzansi’s all-important passenger-vehicle space in Q1 2025?
Well, before we dive into the figures, it’s worth noting SA’s passenger-vehicle segment accounted for as many as 102 268 sales in Q1 2025, representing impressive year-on-year growth of 20.6% and translating to 70.8% of the total market.
VW’s Polo fell from the top 10 in Q1 2025.
Interestingly, as many as 6 models inside the top 10 were sourced from India, while 2 came from China and 2 were produced here in South Africa. While the Volkswagen Polo hatchback placed 6th in Q1 2024, the Kariega-built model was relegated from the list in Q1 2025 (ending this latest reporting period in 12th position), with sales falling 16.8% year on year to 2 518 units.
Two other nameplates that placed inside the top 10 in the opening quarter of 2024 also failed to make the cut in the first 3 months of 2025: the likewise locally built Toyota Fortuner (down 20.7% to 2 079 units) in 14th and the Indian-made Toyota Vitz (down 3.9% to 1 698 units) in 18th.
Swift grabs lead and Starlet reaches podium
Toyota’s Starlet reached the podium in the opening quarter.
But the big news for SA’s passenger-vehicle sales in Q1 2025? The Suzuki Swift took pole position, with local registrations of the Indian-built hatchback surging 42.4% year on year to 6 587 units. That saw the Swift – which entered a new generation in the final quarter of 2024 – gain 2 places compared with its ranking in Q1 last year.
Just how far off the pace was perennial favourite, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo? Well, though the Kariega-made hatch enjoyed a 10.5% year-on-year increase in sales, its Q1 2025 tally of 6 439 units put it 148 sales behind the Swift, meaning it had to settle for the runner-up position. Meanwhile, the Toyota Starlet – based on the Baleno and built by Suzuki in India – moved up a ranking to secure the final spot on the podium, attracting 4 534 registrations (+7.5%).
Toyota Corolla Cross slips as Tiggo 4 climbs
Having placed 2nd in the corresponding reporting period in 2024, the Toyota Corolla Cross – remember, the Prospecton plant switched to a facelifted version early this year, perhaps briefly impacting supply – slipped off the podium to 4th in Q1 2025, with local sales falling 25.2% year on year to 4 231 units. Fascinatingly, the Corolla Cross was the only model in the top 10 to suffer a year-on-year decline.
Meanwhile, the Indian-built Hyundai Grand i10 held steady in 5th spot, growing its sales 12.6% year on year to 3 760 units. The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro was again the highest-placed Chinese model, climbing a ranking to 6th thanks to an 18.2% year-on-year improvement to 3 371 units. Note that the Grand i10 and Tiggo 4 Pro figures above exclude sales of converted panel vans in the light-commercial vehicle space.
Jolion returns as Starlet Cross and Fronx debut
The Haval Jolion fought its way back into the top 10 in Q1 2025.
After failing to rank inside the top 10 in Q1 2024, the Haval Jolion made a strong return in Q1 2025, boasting 95.3% year-on-year growth to finish on 3 183 units and take 7th place. The Toyota Starlet Cross (3 010 units) and Suzuki Fronx (up a whopping 158% year on year to 2 946 units) twins, meanwhile, both climbed into the top 10, with just 64 sales separating them in 8th and 9th, respectively.
Finally, despite sales increasing 16.7% year on year to 2 729 units, the Nissan Magnite dropped a ranking to 10th. As with the Grand i10 and Tiggo 4 Pro above, note that the Magnite’s figure excludes light-commercial vehicle sales of the brand’s fresh Move-badged panel van.
Kia’s Sonet placed just outside the top 10.
So, which models were bubbling under in the opening quarter, falling just short of making the top 10? Well, the Kia Sonet (2 520 units) was 11th ahead of the Polo hatchback, while the Toyota Urban Cruiser (2 471 units), Fortuner and Suzuki Ertiga (2 013 units) rounded out the top 15. Next came the Mahindra XUV 3XO (1 925 units), Renault Kwid (1 799 units), Vitz, Omoda C5 (1 628 units) and Volkswagen T-Cross (1 485 units).
New GX posts highest SA sales by Lexus model in years
The new Lexus GX has only just hit the market in South Africa, but it’s already posted the highest single-month sales total by a Lexus model in many, many years…
Though the Lexus GX has only just arrived in South Africa, the Prado-based luxury ladder-frame SUV has already posted the highest single-month sales total by a Lexus model in several years.
Yes, Lexus registered 63 units of the new GX in March 2025, all sold via the dealer channel. While that figure may not seem overly impressive at first glance, it’s worth noting that GX pricing kicks off at a heady R1 766 000 and runs through to R1 867 000 (also keep in mind that Lexus has long been a low-volume brand in SA).
According to Toyota SA Motors, order books for the new Lexus GX opened in February 2025, shortly before Cars.co.za published its pricing scoop for this new-to-Mzansi nameplate. So, the sales figure reported in March technically also includes orders placed in the prior month.
Still, the 63-unit haul meant the GX immediately outsold all other Lexus models in March 2025, finishing well ahead of the NX (40 units), the freshly updated LX (16 units), the RX (11 units), the ES sedan (3 units), the recently arrived fully electric RZ (3 units) and the UX (2 units), while the IS failed to trouble the scorers. In the end, the GX accounted for a considerable 45.7% of the brand’s 138-unit total last month.
So, just how long has it been since a Lexus model managed a loftier single-month sales total in South Africa? Well, though there are admittedly a few gaps in our records, by our reckoning this could potentially be the highest single-month tally by a Lexus nameplate since the IS sedan hit 70 units way back in September 2012. Yes, that’s nearly 13 years ago…
As a reminder, each of the derivatives in the new Lexus GX line-up is powered by the Japanese firm’s twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 petrol engine (and each thus wears the “GX 550” moniker). Familiar from both the Land Cruiser 300 and the since-discontinued LX 600 (the latter having recently been replaced by the new LX 700h) but here detuned slightly to 260 kW and 650 Nm, the V35A-FTS engine is mated to all 4 wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission.
This petrol motor serves to further differentiate the GX from the Land Cruiser Prado, with the latter offered exclusively in 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel guise (for the record, as many as 495 units of the Prado were sold locally in March 2025). Positioned between the Lexus RX and flagship LX, the GX shares various elements – though, again, not its powertrain – with this latest Prado, right down to its “J250” model code.
To refresh your memory, the Lexus GX is a body-on-frame SUV that traces its roots all the way back to 2002. While the opening 2 generations were produced exclusively in left-hand-drive guise (catering primarily to North America), this 3rd iteration is also manufactured in right-hand drive, opening the door to introductions in its domestic market of Japan as well as in Australia and indeed now South Africa.
D-Max pips Ranger! SA’s best-selling bakkies in March 2025
The D-Max grabbed 2nd from the Ranger on the list of SA’s best-selling bakkies for March 2025, while Mahindra’s Pik Up broke into 4 figures…
In March 2025, South Africa’s total new-vehicle market increased 12.5% year on year to 49 493 units. Once again, the local passenger-vehicle segment was responsible for much of this industry growth, with sales in the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) space conversely sliding 8.4% year on year to 13 328 units.
So, did anything interesting happen on the list of Mzansi’s best- and worst-selling bakkies in March 2025? Well, there was no change at the very top, as the Prospecton-produced Toyota Hilux retained 1st place, with sales of this Japanese stalwart increasing 8.9% (compared to February 2025) to 2 923 units.
March was the Toyota Hilux’s best month of 2025’s opening quarter.
However, the big news was the fact the Isuzu D-Max grabbed 2nd place from the Ford Ranger, with registrations of the Struandale-built bakkie surging 16.9% month on month to 2 250 units (off the back of a 36.2% improvement in February, we might add). Interestingly, 372 of these D-Max units represented sales to government.
That, of course, meant the Silverton-made Ranger had to settle for an unfamiliar 3rd position in March 2025, though the Blue Oval brand’s contender was just 71 units behind its Japanese foe. In the end, local Ranger sales improved marginally (0.5% month on month) to 2 179 units, with 183 of those sold to the state.
Meanwhile, the Mahindra Pik Up broke into 4 figures in March 2025, comfortably retaining 4th place. The Indian automaker’s seemingly evergreen bakkie – which is assembled under contract by the AIH Group in KwaZulu-Natal – enjoyed a 59.2% month-on-month improvement to end on 1 215 units, a figure we believe is this nameplate’s best effort yet (helping Mahindra to a record 2 253 sales overall).
The Nissan Navara climbed a ranking to 5th, with local registrations of the Rosslyn-made range – which recently welcomed a new Pro-4X Warrior flagship derivative – soaring 102.7% month on month to 835 units. That meant the imported Toyota Land Cruiser 79 (476 units) fell a place to 6th in March.
In March, Mahindra’s Pik Up put in what we believe was its best showing yet.
Seemingly bolstered by new P300 derivatives, the GWM P-Series line-up registered a 73.3% month-on-month improvement in sales to 402 units, seeing the Chinese bakkie move up a spot to 7th. The Volkswagen Amarok – which is built alongside the Ranger at Ford’s Silverton facility in Gauteng – thus slipped a ranking to 8th, with 275 units sold.
Having made its debut in the top 10 in February 2025, the Foton Tunland G7 retained 9th place in March, with 236 units registered. The final place on the table went to another Chinese bakkie in the form of the long-in-the-tooth GWM Steed (119 units), which held onto 10th.
Best of the rest in March 2025: bakkies outside top 10
JAC’s T-Series of bakkies (including the T9) hit 186 sales in March.
So, which bakkies didn’t make the top 10 in March 2025? Well, the JAC T-Series – the Chinese firm unfortunately reported only a combined figure for its T6, T8 and T9 line-ups, so we technically can’t rank these individual nameplates in the top 10 – managed 186 units. Meanwhile, the Peugeot Landtrek ended March 2025 on 79 units and was followed by the Mitsubishi Triton and Mahindra Bolero, each finishing on 39 units (having tied in February, too).
Finally, 5 examples of the Jeep Gladiator were sold, though 2 of them represented “single registrations” (that is, units Stellantis SA kept and licensed for its own use). Interestingly, March 2025 was the first month the Nissan NP200 didn’t appear on the new-vehicle sales charts since its discontinuation a year ago, suggesting stock has finally run dry.
10 best-selling bakkies in South Africa for March 2025
GWM Tank 300 hits new sales high as turbodiesel arrives
The recent addition of turbodiesel power to the GWM Tank 300 range has seemingly already resulted in a spike in SA sales, with the boxy SUV hitting a new high in March 2025…
Early in March 2025, the GWM Tank 300 range in South Africa welcomed a pair of new 2.4TD derivatives, finally bringing turbodiesel power to the local line-up. And, based on the latest sales figures, that move already appears to be paying dividends.
In March 2025, local registrations of the Tank 300 increased 77.6% month on month to 103 units, marking the first time this Chinese ladder-frame SUV has breached the 3-figure mark. For the record, 11 of those sales were so-called “single registrations” (that is, vehicles GWM kept and licensed for its own use).
Though Naamsa’s sales dataset unfortunately does not provide a breakdown by model derivative or indeed engine, there’s little doubt the long-awaited arrival of a turbodiesel motor drove this fresh growth. And, considering the oil-burning derivatives reached local dealers only towards the end of the first week of March, there’s every chance we’ll see a further spike in months to come.
As a reminder, the recent arrival of these 2 new turbodiesel derivatives resulted in the Tank 300 portfolio – which previosuly included only turbopetrol and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) powertrains – expanding to 6 variants. And, rather interestingly, the base 2.4TD variant saw the line-up’s entry price lowered by R26 050.
As with the turbopetrol and HEV powertrains, the new turbodiesel motor is offered in the familiar Super Luxury and Ultra Luxury grades. The Tank 300 2.4TD Super Luxury 4×4 is priced at R699 900, while the Tank 300 2.4TD Ultra Luxury 4×4 comes in at R739 900.
In the Tank 300, the new 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine (codenamed GW4D24) – which debuted locally in the P500 bakkie in August 2024 and has since been rolled out to the P300 line-up, too – generates peak outputs of 135 kW (at 3 600 r/min) and 480 Nm (at 2 500 r/min). Drive is delivered to all 4 corners via a 9-speed automatic transmission as standard.
The listed fuel-economy figure for the Tank 300 2.4TD powertrain comes in at 7.7 L/100 km, which compares favourably with the turbopetrol and HEV claims of 9.5 L/100 km and 8.4 L/100 km, respectively. Interestingly, the new diesel derivatives roll on all-terrain tyres (265/65 R17 for the Super Luxury and 265/60 R18 for the Ultra Luxury) rather than the “highway terrain” rubber used by the other variants.
In 2024, GWM registered 526 units of the Tank 300 in South Africa, with a further 41 units sold in January 2025 and 58 examples in February 2025. Before March 2025’s 103-unit haul, the Tank 300’s monthly high was 62 sales, achieved in August last year.
Mahindra hits fresh high! SA’s new-vehicle sales in March 2025
March 2025 was the SA new-vehicle market’s 6th straight month of year-on-year growth. Here’s your full market overview, including a look at the country’s best-selling automakers…
In March 2025, South Africa’s new-vehicle market recorded its 6th consecutive month of year-on-year growth, with sales increasing 12.5% to 49 493 units. This performance – the market’s best in virtually 2 years – furthermore represented a 3.2% improvement over February 2025’s showing.
Naamsa described March 2025 as a “pivotal month” for the local industry, with the positive news extending to the export front, too, with this part of the market seeing growth for the first time in some 10 months. In the end, export sales from Mzansi surged 31.1% year on year to 39 477 units in March 2025.
According to the industry representative body, some 86.8% of last month’s total reported domestic industry figure represented dealer sales, while an estimated 7.3% were sales to the new-vehicle rental industry, 3.5% to government and 2.5% to industry corporate fleets.
Unsurprisingly, it was SA’s new passenger-vehicle segment that again drove growth in the overall market, with sales here rocketing 25.3% year on year to 33 447 units (the rental channel accounting for 7.2% of that figure). Meanwhile, domestic sales of new light-commercial vehicles again declined year on year, this time falling 8.4% to 13 328 units.
Meanwhile, Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), said the results proved that South African consumers had a “strong appetite for new passenger vehicles in March”, though added that the actual tally “may be [even] higher than reported, as several Chinese brands are not yet included in the current data”.
“The resilience in new-vehicle sales is evident, despite ongoing financial constraints for consumers. The growing pressure on financial institutions to approve credit is influencing purchasing behaviour, while rising electricity costs and fluctuating fuel prices continue to strain household budgets. Nevertheless, new-car sales remain buoyant, particularly in the lower market segments, with medium car sales remaining stable,” Cohen pointed out.
WesBank added that the industry “continued to defy economic turmoil in March to mark 6 consecutive months of year-on-year growth and round out 2 optimistic quarters of growth for the South African motor industry”. Lebo Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank, suggested this growth came at a time when “local economic headwinds” were providing “more challenges than positives”.
“While the pending increase in VAT only amounts to R500 per R100 000, we expect that some purchase decisions will have been accelerated by its imminent implementation. While interest rates remained unchanged during the month, their levels have alleviated some affordability, stimulating demand in the market for new vehicles. WesBank has also experienced a reduction in balloon amounts financed year-on-year, reinforcing the positive improvements in affordability in the market,” explained Gaoaketse.
New-vehicle sales summary for March 2025
Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 49 493 units increased by 12.5% (5 504 units) compared to March 2024.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 33 447 units increased by 25.3% (6 756 units) compared to March 2024.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 13 328 units decreased by 8.4% (1 227 units) compared to March 2024.
Export sales of 39 477 units increased by 31.1% (9 354 units) compared to March 2024.
SA’s 10 best-selling automakers in March 2025
Toyota SA Motors (which includes the Lexus and Hino brands) ended March 2025 on 11 660 units, representing a marginal month-on-month fall of 0.7%. Of course, that tally was more than enough for the Japanese giant to retain 1st position, again more than doubling the efforts of the market’s next-strongest contender.
That runner-up spot in March went to Suzuki Auto SA, meaning the Hamamatsu-based automaker has placed 2nd in each of 2025’s opening 3 months. In the end, Suzuki registered a total of 5 284 units, some 12.6% down on its February’s figure. Volkswagen Group Africa (including Audi sales) thus again had to settle for 3rd place, with its sales dipping 6.4% month on month to 4 913 units (for the record, that’s 371 sales behind Suzuki).
Hyundai (3 103 units) and Ford (2 907 units) both enjoyed slight month-on-month sales increases to remain in 4th and 5th position, respectively. Isuzu registrations surged 20.1% (compared to February 2025) to 2 759 units, which saw the Japanese brand comfortably keep 6th place.
Having returned to the top 10 in February, Nissan climbed a further 3 rankings to grab 7th in March 2025, with sales ballooning 53.8% (admittedly off a relatively low base) month on month to 2 303 units. Meanwhile, Indian automaker Mahindra put in what was easily its best performance yet, with local registrations climbing 39.9% month on month to a record 2 253 units.
Fascinatingly, that meant the market’s 2 largest Chinese brands were resigned to the final 2 spots in the top 10. Despite GWM sales increasing 20.6% month on month to 2 066 units – the first time the firm has breached the 2 000-unit mark since July 2023 – the company slid a place to 9th in March. Chery, meanwhile, fell 3 rankings to 10th, with registrations dipping 1.0% month on month to 1 904 units.
Still, Chery’s total was enough to again prevent Kia (1 402 units) and Renault (1 402 units) from re-entering the top 10. BMW Group SA (with a Naamsa-estimated 1 337 units) followed in 13th place, ahead of Omoda & Jaecoo (806 units) in 14th and Mercedes-Benz (with a Naamsa-estimated 563 units) in 15th.
1. Toyota – 11 660 units
2. Suzuki – 5 284 units
3. Volkswagen Group – 4 913 units
4. Hyundai – 3 103 units
5. Ford – 2 907 units
6. Isuzu – 2 759 units
7. Nissan – 2 303 units
8. Mahindra – 2 253 units
9. GWM – 2 066 units
10. Chery – 1 904 units
Sales outlook in South Africa for remainder of 2025
So, where to from here for South Africa’s new-vehicle market? Well, on the monetary policy level, Naamsa points to the country’s currently “stable” borrowing costs as a clear positive. However, it adds that “challenges such as energy constraints, rising living costs and the upcoming VAT increase in April may pose new hurdles in the months ahead”.
“Despite these potential headwinds, South Africa’s automotive industry remains committed to long-term growth and resilience,” the industry representative body says, adding that the industry has again “proved its ability to thrive amid geopolitical shifts and sustain its long-term growth trajectory”.
Meanwhile, NADA’s Cohen says while financial downturns have “historically” led to a “marked shift towards used vehicles as more affordable options”, this trend is “not as pronounced in the current environment, with strong growth in new-vehicle sales instead”. Still, NADA suggests the best approach currently is one of caution.
“With overall sentiment remaining constrained, we are adopting a cautious stance, particularly with the upcoming Budget Vote and potential US tariff announcements on the horizon. The sustained demand for passenger vehicles is a positive indicator, but broader economic uncertainties continue to shape the outlook for the automotive sector,” explains Cohen.
Finally, WesBank’s Gaoaketse says the arrival of “more and more Chinese brands and products is certainly creating more volume for the market at affordable prices with attractive specification levels”, adding that “some of these sales are winning market share from legacy brands, indicating a shift in buying behaviour as consumers become more product conscious and less brand conscious in their vehicle choice”.
In addition, Gaoaketse suggests relief at the pumps “thanks to substantial decreases across the fuel board during April” means consumer confidence “should remain as bullish as 1st quarter sales would suggest, providing a strong impetus for 2nd quarter sales. However, political and economic uncertainties continue to prevail, which could impact the growth trajectory”.
