10 best-selling bakkies in South Africa: November 2022
Time to examine November 2022’s sales figures and identify South Africa’s best-selling bakkies as well as those models that didn’t prove quite so popular with local buyers…
In November 2022, South Africa’s total new-vehicle market grew 18.2% to 49 413 units, while the light-commercial vehicle segment (which includes bakkies) ended the month on 13 477 registrations, representing even healthier year-on-year growth of 20.8%. That light-commercial figure is furthermore nearly 6% higher than October’s tally.
So, what impact has this had on the list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies? Fascinatingly, very little at all – in terms of the overall standings, anyway. Yes, the order of the models in the top 10 is completely unchanged compared to the previous month.
Though the D-Max shed 224 sales month on month, the Isuzu bakkie retained third place.
That means the Prospecton-produced Toyota Hilux is still the runaway leader, despite the fact the 3 048 registrations it achieved in November 2022 was slightly lower than its October effort. Conversely, the outgoing Ford Ranger (1 979 units) saw a minor increase in sales, though not enough to trouble its Japanese foe.
Meanwhile, even though it shed a couple of hundred sales month on month, the Isuzu D-Max (1 578 units) was third, ahead of the Nissan NP200 (1 164 units), Mahindra Pik Up (697 units), Nissan Navara (562 units), GWM P-Series (437 units) and GWM Steed (368 units), each of which recorded month-on-month gains.
The ninth-placed Toyota Land Cruiser 79 (277 units) and tenth-placed Volkswagen Amarok (154 units) both experienced small declines in sales compared to October, though still managed to retain their top 10 spots.
Best of the rest in November 2022
Mitsubishi’s Triton again finds itself outside of the top 10.
Let’s turn our attention to the bit-part players, again led by the Mitsubishi Triton (64 units) in November. Next was the Peugeot Landtrek with 45 units, closely followed by the Mahindra Bolero (39 units).
JAC’s T-badged bakkies (the Chinese firm reports a combined figure for the recently expanded T6 and T8 line-ups) improved to 49 units, while the Mazda BT-50 again had to settle for single figures, with a mere 9 units registered across the month. Finally, just a single example of the Jeep Gladiator was sold in November.
Export winners in November 2022
While the standings on the domestic front were unchanged, there was at least a little movement on the export charts. With 5 466 units shipped from Toyota’s KwaZulu-Natal plant, the Hilux moved up to the top, forcing the Ranger (4 299 units) down to second.
Next came the D-Max (396 units) and Navara (334 units), followed by the NP200 (172 units). Interestingly, Naamsa’s official figures show 34 units of the imported Triton were also exported in November, along with 8 units of the Chinese-built P-Series.
10 best-selling bakkies in South Africa for November 2022
The Tiguan R is the potent new flagship of Volkswagen’s medium SUV. Does it retain most of the aspects that made its sibling derivatives so popular and, does the market need a 235-kW medium SUV that can sprint from 0 to 100 kph in 5 sec? We find out.
We like: Easily accessible performance, relative value for money, good spec and practicality.
We don’t like: Firm ride, steering wheel needs conventional buttons, tyre repair kit only.
Why has it taken so long for VW to offer a performance SUV in South Africa?
For years, the GTI-powered 2.0TSI 4Motion R-Line was the top-rung Tiguan; with all-wheel drive and 162 kW on tap, it’s no slouch! However, Volkswagen decided to slot the Golf 8 R’s more potent 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol motor into the family SUV and, a few tweaks to the suspension and brakes later, the result was a rather rapid family SUV. The Tiguan R is a “sleeper” (it blends in with the rest of the range); Unless you spot the R badges, blue brake calipers and quad exhaust tips, you’d think it was just a Tiguan with an R-Design body kit.
The Tiguan is Volkswagen’s best-selling vehicle globally and it’s easy to understand why: apart from the fact that crossovers are in high demand, the Tiguan range has a diverse line-up, with petrol, diesel and electrified options. You can get 5- and a 7-seaters, 2-wheel- and all-wheel drive and now, a performance version. Given how the market’s appetite for fast SUVs has grown, the flexibility of the MQB platform and Volkswagen’s reputation for producing potent powertrains for compact cars, we’re surprised that the Tiguan R didn’t emerge sooner.
With big wheels, R badging and quad exhaust tips, the Tiguan R certainly looks the business.
Performance-oriented medium SUVs are niche models, but there are a few options around, or just above, the R1-million mark. The outgoing BMW X2 M35i also has a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine and all-wheel drive, but it’s smaller than the Tiguan. The Audi RS Q3, which is based on the same platform as the Tiguan R, has a roaring 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine, but it’s notably pricier. An interesting alternative is a Porsche Macan, albeit the entry-level version. Also, Mercedes-AMG will be launching its GLB 35 next year, if you’re prepared to wait for it.
The tried-and-trusted EA888 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine has found its way into the Tiguan, its outputs have been cranked up to 235 kW/400 Nm – and the result is nothing short of spectacular. VWSA says the Tiguan R can hit 100 kph from a standstill in 5.1 sec, but we used our test equipment to find out for ourselves. With the aid of launch control, the Tiguan R completed the 0-100 kph sprint in 5.0 sec(!) and dispatched the quarter mile in 13.19 sec. Those are rather serious numbers for a vehicle that tips the scales at just over 1600 kg…
In addition to the usual drive modes, the all-wheel-driven Tiguan R offers a few off-road settings.
The combination of a potent powerplant, a rapid-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and, of course, the generous traction availed by the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system gives the Tiguan R such a searing turn of speed. In Race Mode, the Tiguan R is a potent straight-line performer – both from a standstill and in terms of in-gear (overtaking) acceleration. Thanks to its 400 Nm of torque, the Tiguan R is always ready to surge, although in its Comfort drive mode, throttle- and shift responses are rather languid (to aid efficiency and refinement); simply press the blue R button (on the ‘wheel) to sharpen everything up.
Tiguan R drivers can choose from 3 pre-set 3 modes or can select the fourth – Individual – to customise the settings.
As is the case with many higher-end VW Group products, the Tiguan R offers its driver a host of drive modes to choose from. The R(ace) mode, for example, is best suited for short, sharp bursts when road and traffic conditions allow you to make the most of the newcomer’s performance and handling characteristics, but for the rest of the time, you can utilise Comfort (it puts the powertrain in full Eco mode), Sport and Individual. What’s more, every drive mode is accompanied by a different colour scheme on the digital instrument cluster: green for Comfort, red for Sport, blue for Race and, finally, yellow – when “off-road” mode is in use.
Anoraks (and driving enthusiasts) can tweak numerous parameters to find that perfect setup.
It’s totally worth experimenting with the myriad settings in Individual mode to find a setup that you prefer (our recommendations are in brackets). You can adjust the pliancy of the active dampers (Comfort – we’ll explain later), the light- or heaviness of the ‘wheel (Race), engine responsiveness (Sport offers the best of Comfort and Race) and even the intensity of the engine sound. If you’re not entirely happy with the sound of the standard exhaust (which is enhanced by the audio system), you can specify a louder Akrapovic exhaust for R69k.
Hit the R button to make the Tiguan R instantly activate its sportiest settings.
As for the Tiguan R’s real-world fuel consumption, we saw an average of 9.8 L/100 km by the end of the test car’s tenure in our fleet. That combined-cycle figure (for a mix of urban and freeway driving) is not significantly higher than VW’s claimed figure (8.8 L/100 km); it’s fair, considering the size and performance bent of the Tiguan R. The tank holds 58 litres.
Ride and handling
As befits a family car (even a fast one), the Tiguan R’s elevated driving position facilitates excellent all-round visibility. Even though the Volkswagen seems more at home on the open road/freeways than round town, its general driving experience is effortless and relaxed.
Oversized ‘shift paddles dominate the ‘wheel, but the tiller is beset with fiddly capacitive touchpads.
However, if you press that R button and make the Volkswagen carve up corners at a rapid rate, it won’t fail to impress. Previously, the Tiguan distinguished itself as a model with reassuring handling (even if its steering feel is somewhat anodyne – which is true for most medium SUVs, truth be told), but the Tiguan R takes it to a higher level with plenty of grip, stability, and poise. The steering setup is great too; it balances lightness and accuracy.
Thanks to a trick rear differential, the Tiguan R can shuffle most of its torque to the back axle to instil a livelier driving feel, but you’ll have to explore the car’s limits to feel that diff work.
Granted, the Tiguan R does demand a compromise in return for its stonking pace. You’ve guessed it: the SUV has a sporty suspension setup and, in its most performance-oriented mode, when running on optional 21-inch wheels, the VW’s ride quality is decidedly firm.
These wheels look great but are best suited to roads. Those beefy brakes provide immense stopping power.
Also, those handsome 21-inch alloys shod with low-profile tyres felt appropriate for tar-road use only – smaller wheels fitted with plumper rubber would be better suited/more durable for the purpose of taking extended gravel-road journeys. You may ask: “Who’d ever drive a Tiguan R on any road other than an asphalt one?” Well, family SUVs need to be versatile; at least VW has equipped the Tiguan R with off-road modes (accessible via a centre console dial).
Features, tech and safety features
At this price point (R1 million), buyers will expect the Tiguan R to be well equipped – and indeed, it is. The Nappa leather trim feels grand and the electrically adjustable driver’s seat is comfortable and supportive (plus both front seats are heated). The digital instrument cluster’s display is customisable, while the Discover Pro touchscreen infotainment system comes with integrated satnav and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless).
The Tiguan R comes equipped with a wireless charging pad and a quartet of USB-C ports.
There’s an abundance of USB-C ports, while tri-zone climate control, cruise control with limiter, a panoramic sunroof and an electric tailgate round out the standard-features list. So, the Tiguan R’s well specced, but not generously equipped.
Our test unit came optioned with the 21-inch Estoril wheels (R21 000), Harman Kardon audio (R12 200) and Matrix LED headlights (R14 800), to name but a few of the extra-cost features. Customers can further add keyless entry (R11 900), a head-up display (R11 200), a wireless charging pad (R4 200), a reverse-view camera (R6 400), area (surround) view with park assist (R14 800), a tow bar (R9 900), as well as the aforementioned R-Performance exhaust (R69 000).
Safety equipment includes 6 airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, stability control, hill descent control, as well as tyre-pressure sensors, but, if you want semi-autonomous safety tech (including adaptive cruise control, a lane change system, Park Assist and autonomous emergency braking), you’ll need to dip into the options for the assortment of IQ Drive technology packages.
The touchscreen infotainment system is compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay.
The Tiguan R’s cabin is as an eminently upmarket space and its fit-and-finish is generally good, but, on the downside, the multifunction steering wheel’s bespattered with (the latest iteration of Volkswagen’s) capacitive-touch buttons. They are frustratingly imprecise to use when the vehicle is in motion (when you’re supposed to keep your eyes glued to the road). You’ll get used to them eventually, but we’re relieved VW will phase them out in future.
Packaging and Practicality
While the R’s ride quality is firmer than those of Tiguan derivatives fitted with smaller alloys (despite the best efforts of the flagship’s adaptive suspension), it remains almost as practical as its siblings; a small family (and their luggage) can easily be accommodated in the VW.
With 520 litres of luggage space, the Tiguan’s load bay is more capacious than most in the segment. If you fold the rear seats down, you get up to 1 655 litres – enough to swallow an entire mountain bike and a set of golf clubs. The boot floor is height adjustable, but note there’s no spare wheel, just a tyre repair kit that consists of a 12V compressor and tyre sealant.
The Tiguan still has one of the more spacious and roomier cabins in its class. Rear occupant space is commendable.
Not only does the Tiguan R’s interior look sporty with its blue stitching and detailing; it has no shortage of oddment storage spaces (we appreciated the cooled glovebox in particular). If you’re not going to be driving the “R”, at least you can enjoy the generous space in the back, where even the tallest of passengers have ample head- and legroom. The central rear armrest features deployable cupholders, while the rear bench can slide and recline for added comfort.
The Volkswagen Tiguan R is priced at R999 900, which includes a 3-year/120 000 km warranty, a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Services are required once a year or every 15 000 km.
Given the stock shortage of Golf 8 R units, we predict the Tiguan R will comfortably outsell its hatchback sibling
Verdict
Why did Volkswagen not produce a performance version of its popular family car sooner? Thanks to its R division, the Wolfsburg-based brand had the know-how – the ingredients, if you will, to create a compelling product that’s far more than just the sum of its parts. The Tiguan R looks every bit – and mostly is – a “sensible”, practical family vehicle, yet at the touch of that R button, it transforms into a fun-to-drive and suitably rapid medium SUV.
Should you buy one? R1 million sounds like a lot of money, but at that price point, there’s little to touch the Tiguan R as a sporty-yet-practical family car. Volkswagen’s flagship medium SUV trounces the slightly more affordable BMW X2 M35i in terms of practicality, has more power, but the same torque as the basic Porsche Macan, which costs north of R1.1 million and, yes, it produces 59 kW and 80 Nm less than the 2.5-litre 5-cylinder RS Q3, but considering that it costs almost R200k less than its cousin from Ingolstadt, does it matter?
Just make sure you avoid the largest (21-inch) wheels – they’re not really suited for gravel or mild off-road driving, and splurge on the Akrapovic exhaust for that authentic R experience.
Does a Fiat Uno Turbo Need 285kW?
This monster Fiat Uno Turbo lurks in Johannesburg, South Africa. Built by an enthusiast who owns two of them, it is one of the most powerful Uno Turbos in the world. Watch the video!
Marcello Massia owns a Fiat Uno Turbo, but his wife bought him another one. That’s quite a Christmas present.
The car was in relatively poor shape though, the previous owner abandoned the project after the engine exploded. It turned out that it just blew a gasket, so after replacing that and making a couple of tweaks, and with a good tune, the car is now running very nicely indeed.
With a 1.6-litre 4-cyl source from a Fiat Palio, this is not the easiest car to modify, but Marcello’s love for the cars has pulled him through, and now the car should run low 11s on the quarter mile.
Marcello, we salute you, and wish you many happy miles.
Earlier this year, Maserati revealed its Porsche-rivalling Grecale SUV and it’s been earmarked for South African introduction early in 2023. Here’s what you can expect to pay for the newcomer!
Maserati, the Modena-based luxury car manufacturer, earlier this year revealed its new Grecale SUV which slots in beneath the larger Levante SUV and will rival the Porsche Macan.
The Grecale measures 4 846 mm long, 2 163 mm wide, 1 670 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2 901 mm.
The Grecale adopts sleek, coupe-like styling with a low-slung bonnet and a menacing inverted grille flanked by large air intakes while the rear boomerang taillights draw inspiration from the Giugiaro 3200 GT.
Inside, it’s an all-digital affair with a large central 12.3-inch infotainment system and an 8.8-inch lower secondary screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The traditional Maserati clock is now also digital… As expected, the cabin adopts quality finishes including fine leather upholstery with contrast stitching.
What powertrains are offered for the Maserati Grecale?
The Grecale is expected to arrive in South Africa towards the end of 2022.
From launch, the all-wheel-drive Maserati Grecale will be offered in 3 flavours including the GT, Modena and range-topping Trofeo.
The entry-level Grecale GT is fitted with a 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine with mild-hybrid technology and offers outputs of 224 kW and 450 Nm of torque. The Modena uses the same powerplant but power is ramped up to 246 kW while retaining its 450 Nm torque figure. Both derivatives use an 8-speed automatic transmission and Maserati claims a 5.6 second sprint time for the GT while the Modena is capable of 5.3 seconds to 100 kph.
As for the range-topping Grecale Trofeo, it employs the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine from the Maserati MC20 supercar with outputs of 390 kW and 620 Nm of torque. Zero to 100 kph is pegged at 3.8 seconds using a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and an electronic rear limited-slip differential. Top speed is rated at 285 kph.
But that’s not all, Maserati will also introduce an all-electric Grecale Folgore with 400V technology at a later stage.
The Maserati Grecale is due for South African introduction early in 2023.
How much does the Maserati Grecale cost in South Africa?
The new BMW XM, which boasts a lofty peak power output of 480 kW courtesy of the M division’s first plug-in hybrid powertrain, will cost R3.4 million when it arrives in SA.
Earlier this year, BMW finally unveiled the new XM with great fanfare; it is the M division’s second standalone model after the M1 of the late 1970s. Then, in October, South Africans saw the plug-in hybrid performance SUV in the metal when it was exhibited at the 2022 BMW M Fest at Kyalami.
Revealed as part of the M division’s 50th-anniversary celebrations (and preceded by the BMW Concept XM), the new 5-seater high-performance SUV is scheduled to go on sale in Mzansi in the second quarter of 2023. BMW says the Spartanburg-built vehicle will appeal to “new target groups”, though promises it will still deliver a “well-resolved performance experience worthy of the M badge”.
A closer look at the BMW XM’s PHEV powertrain
This is the M division’s first high-performance vehicle with an electrified drive system, here comprising a “high-revving”, twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine and an “exceptionally powerful” electric motor. As announced earlier, total system outputs of the vehicle at launch stand at 480 kW and 800 Nm (360 kW/650 Nm courtesy of the petrol engine and 145 kW/280 Nm from the electric gubbins, though each of the two components’ peak figures are produced at different stages).
The electric motor is integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and benefits from a “pre-gearing stage” that increases its effective maximum torque to 450 Nm at the transmission input. Drive is sent to all four wheels through a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system. Thanks in part to the immediate response of the electric motor and the grip offered by the all-paw arrangement, the XM will sprint from standstill to 100 kph in a claimed 4.3 seconds. Top speed comes in at 250 kph, though this figure can be raised to 270 kph by selecting the optional M Driver’s Package.
When the driver isn’t chasing acceleration times, the XM offers an all-electric mode with a claimed range of up to 88 km (though cruising speed in this setting is limited to 140 kph). The high-voltage lithium-ion battery pack mounted in the vehicle’s underbody has a gross capacity of 25.7 kWh, while the combined charging unit enables AC charging at speeds up to 7.4 kW.
Just how large (and heavy) is the new BMW XM?
The hefty SUV measures 5 110 mm long, 2 005 mm wide and stands 1 755 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3 105 mm. For reference, that makes it a little smaller than the X7.
Ground clearance comes in at 220 mm, while the listed luggage capacity figures range from 527 to 1 820 litres, depending on the configuration of the seats. If you’re wondering just how heavy the XM is, BMW lists an unladen weight of up to 2 785 kg (for the record, that’s 110 kg more than the larger X7 M60i xDrive).
As standard, the electrified SUV is fitted with 21-inch wheels, while alloys measuring up to 23 inches in diameter will also be optionally available. Adaptive suspension ships standard, including electronically controlled dampers and 48V active roll stabilisation. The XM is also the first M model to feature integral active steering, while M Sport brakes (with a pair of pedal-feel settings) are also included.
A peek inside the cabin of the new BMW XM
Inside, BMW says the cockpit and front seats are designed “entirely around an active driving experience”. The curved display (formed by a 12.3-inch information monitor and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches) as well as the head-up display, for instance, come with M-specific graphics, including shift lights.
The headlining, meanwhile, takes on a three-dimensional prism structure, complete with 100 LED units for illumination. BMW offers a choice of four different trims for customising the interior, as well as a new “vintage leather” for the upper sections of the instrument panel and door panels.
Ambient lighting, 4-zone automatic climate control and a Harman Kardon surround sound system are all standard features, while the options list includes items such as a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system with a 1 500-watt amplifier and four additional speakers in the roof.
But wait, there’s more: a 550 kW BMW XM Label Red is coming
If the “standard” output of 480 kW isn’t quite enough for you, we have good news for you: BMW says it will launch the XM Label Red in 2023. This model will arrive as the most powerful road-legal series-produced car in the history of BMW M, offering system outputs of 550 kW and 1 000 Nm.
New BMW M2: SA Price Confirmed
The 2023 BMW M2, which packs 338 kW of power and the option of a manual gearbox, will be arriving in South Africa in the 2nd quarter of next year and, in early December 2022, BMW SA confirmed that the compact sportscar would retail for R1 503 975.
What you see here is the 2023 BMW M2 and despite the early leaks suggesting a quirky design, what we see here is more promising. The newcomer will be assembled at BMW’s plant in Mexico and it’s 104 mm longer, 33 mm wider and 7.6 mm lower than the outgoing model. Interestingly, it has picked up some weight, with BMW claiming 1 730 kg for the manual derivative, while the auto tips the scales at 1 754 kg.
The new BMW M2 faces stiff competition in the form of the Audi RS3 and Mercedes-AMG A45 S. See how they stack up with our Compare Tool.
Speaking of transmissions, BMW says the brand-new M2 will be sold with a 6-speed manual gearbox or an 8-speed automatic. Given SA’s appetite for this model, we expect both derivatives to come to SA. The headline is the engine. It’s the S58, a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-6 petrol and in this application 338 kW and 550 Nm is offered. That’s 66 kW more than its predecessor and the performance claims are big.
It’s offered with a rear-wheel drive setup and when combined with the manual gearbox, 4.3 seconds to 100 kph is claimed. Go for the 8-speed automatic and the same sprint is dispatched in just 4.1 seconds. A top speed of 250 kph is claimed, but if you go for the M Driver’s Package, 285 kph is attainable.
The 2023 BMW M2 is all about the driving. The auto transmission offers 3 different modes, while the manual ‘box features rev-matching. The steering can be set between Comfort and Sport, and electromagnetically-controlled adaptive suspension is standard. BMW says its Dynamic Stability Control now has an M Dynamic Mode which allows for greater wheel slip.
You can now tweak the brake feel, one for comfort and one for track days. There are some fun features thrown in too, like a drift analyser and there are 10 settings for the M Traction Control. Sport lets you have some fun within reason and a safety net just in case, Track is safeties-off and no holds barred. Factor in additional money for replacement tyres as you commence glorious sideways burnouts.
Inside, there are some new touches. There are two options for seats, but we reckon these M Carbon buckets are where it’s at. Not only do they look great, but they’re also lighter than the standard units and still retain heating and electric adjustability. As far as infotainment goes, the 2023 BMW M2 features the latest iDrive 8 system, with a 12.3-inch info display and a 14.9-inch curved screen.
When is the 2023 BMW M2 Coming to SA?
The 2023 BMW M2 has been confirmed for South Africa and will be arriving in the second quarter of 2023.
BMW M2 Walkaround Video with M Boss
New vehicle sales in South Africa: November 2022
South Africa’s new-vehicle market again outperformed expectations in November 2022. Here’s what you need to know, including the country’s top-selling vehicles and most popular brands…
In November 2022, South Africa’s new-vehicle industry registered yet another month of year-on-year growth – its eleventh on the trot – with total sales growing a significant 18.2% to 49 413 units. This figure furthermore represents a 7.5% improvement over October 2022’s tally.
As Naamsa points out, the market remains surprisingly resilient, continuing to outperform expectations in the face of myriad challenges that include rising interest rates, a drastic increase in load-shedding, high fuel prices, a generally weak economy and ongoing new-vehicle supply constraints. Exports sales, meanwhile, spiked 64.7% year on year to 34 310 units.
Out of the 49 413 total reported registrations in South Africa in November 2022, an estimated 39 998 units (or around 81%) represented dealer sales, with 14.7% coming via the vehicle-rental industry, 2.3% from government and 2.0% from industry corporate fleets.
The new passenger-vehicle market improved 16.9% year on year to 32 859 units, again well supported by the rental industry (which accounted for a healthy 20% of all new passenger-car sales). The light-commercial vehicle segment – which includes bakkies and mini-buses – ended November 2022 on 13 477 registrations, representing a strong year-on-year gain of 20.8%.
Meanwhile, WesBank notes November’s performance represents the second-best month of 2022 thus far, slotting in marginally behind March, when the 50 000-unit barrier was last broken.
“November sales put in a fighting closing period for 2022, displaying the relatively constant recovery of the market throughout the course of the year,” says Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communications at WesBank, making reference to the traditional slow-down in sales during December. Still, Gaoaketse makes the point the interest-rate spike will “undoubtedly place the onus on consumers to seriously consider affordability when it comes to applying to finance”.
Mark Dommisse, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), welcomes the “pleasant surprise” of relatively strong sales in November.
“We were expecting a similar market to October, considering the negatives affecting the economy and growing political uncertainty in the country, but consumers have once again proved us wrong,” says Dommisse, describing the outcome as “most heartening for all sectors of the industry”.
New vehicle sales summary for November 2022
Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 49 413 units increased by 18.2% (7 618 units) compared to November 2021.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 32 859 units increased by 16.9% (4 759 units) compared to November 2021.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 13 477 units increased by 20.8% (2 323 units) compared to November 2021.
Export sales of 34 310 units increased by 64.7% (13 479 units) compared to November 2021.
10 best-selling car brands in South Africa for November 2022
Though Haval fell a spot in November 2022, the Chinese brand remained in the top 10.
Toyota continued its climb back towards the record sales numbers it registered just prior to the devastating KwaZulu-Natal floods that caused extensive damage to its Prospecton plant. In November 2022, with production back at full capacity, the Japanese firm’s local division came close to crossing the 14 000-unit threshold, selling more than the second-placed Volkswagen Group (6 406 units), third-placed Suzuki (4 287 units) and fourth-placed Nissan (3 167 units) combined.
Hyundai was again fifth, while Ford climbed one position to sixth, forcing Chinese brand Haval down a spot to seventh. Isuzu held steady in eighth, while Kia and Renault swapped positions, ending the month in ninth and tenth, respectively. With 1 502 units registered, Chery found itself just outside the top 10, while Indian firm Mahindra (1 010 units) was the only other automaker to crack four figures for the month.
1. Toyota – 13 903 units
2. Volkswagen Group – 6 406 units
3. Suzuki – 4 287 units
4. Nissan – 3 167 units
5. Hyundai – 3 002 units
6. Ford – 2 347 units
7. Haval – 2 220 units
8. Isuzu – 2 027 units
9. Kia – 1 892 units
10. Renault – 1 801 units
10 best-selling vehicles in South Africa for November 2022
The Suzuki Swift has become a firm favourite with private and rental-fleet buyers.
No surprises at the very top of the table as the Toyota Hilux (3 408 units) was again South Africa’s best-selling vehicle, and again by quite some margin. The likewise Prospecton-built Toyota Corolla Cross (2 109 units) held steady in a strong second place, while the outgoing Silverton-produced Ford Ranger (1 979 units) gained one spot to finish the month in third.
Rocketing up four places to fourth, the locally assembled Hi-Ace (1 944 units) came exceedingly close to making it an all-Toyota podium, while the Suzuki Swift (1 751 units) moved up a position to fifth. The Volkswagen Polo Vivo (1 741 units) was close behind in sixth, just ahead of the likewise Kariega-manufactured VW Polo hatchback (1 724 units), which made a welcome return to the table in seventh, recovering after placing a lowly 15th in October.
The Struandale-built Isuzu D-Max (1 578 units) fell three places to eighth, while the Toyota Urban Cruiser (1 334 units) – with its future in South Africa currently somewhat uncertain – plummeted six spots to ninth. With 1 322 registrations, the Toyota Starlet returned to claim the final position, meaning there was no space for the Nissan NP200 (1 164 units), which is a fairly unusual occurrence. Other models just outside the top 10 included the Volkswagen T-Cross with 1 046 sales and the Hyundai Grand i10 with 971 units.
Top 8 vehicles exported from South Africa in November 2022
Nearly 10 000 examples of the Polo hatch were exported by VWSA in November 2022.
In November 2022, the Volkswagen Polo hatchback leapt back to the top of the list of exported models, with a whopping 9 790 units shipped overseas from the Kariega facility. The Toyota Hilux (5 466 units) grabbed second place, meaning the Ford Ranger had to settle for third, with 4 299 units exported during the month. As is so often the case, the Isuzu D-Max, Nissan Navara, Nissan NP200, Toyota Fortuner and Toyota Corolla Cross made up the numbers.
It’s also worth noting BMW and Mercedes-Benz did not submit detailed figures to Naamsa, so it’s not known exactly how many new X3 and C-Class sedan units were exported from South African shores in November 2022. For the record, however, Naamsa’s estimates stand at 4 800 units and 8 691 units, respectively.
1. Volkswagen Polo (hatch) – 9 790 units
2. Toyota Hilux – 5 466 units
3. Ford Ranger – 4 299 units
4. Isuzu D-Max – 396 units
5. Nissan Navara – 334 units
6. Nissan NP200 – 172 units
7. Toyota Fortuner – 62 units
8. Toyota Corolla Cross – 54 units
Sales outlook
So, where to from here for the South African market? Well, Naamsa points to the fact the South African Reserve Bank raised the interest rate last month for the seventh consecutive time since November 2021 (and the third consecutive instance of 75 basis points) to its highest level since 2016. Despite this, the new-vehicle market is currently running 13.6% ahead of the corresponding year-to-date period in 2021.
“The recovery in business and leisure travel provided some support to the new-vehicle market to counter the growing pressures on household incomes. GDP growth in South Africa continues to be adjusted downwards and was now expected to be at 1.1% for 2023. In view of the close correlation between new-vehicle sales and the country’s GDP growth rate, single-digit growth in new-vehicle sales could be expected for 2023,” Naamsa cautions.
WesBank echoes Naamsa’s mild concerns for next year, though predicts the market recovery will continue in the short term.
“As consumer confidence grows in the wake of slowly improving economic conditions, we expect the new-vehicle market to continue its recovery. However, the headwinds of load-shedding, the political outlook and the sheer reality of the increased cost of indebtedness will continue to put pressure on just how well new-vehicle sales will perform in 2023,” Gaoaketse explains.
Meanwhile, NADA believes November’s strong sales in the rental sector, as it prepares for what will “hopefully be a bumper festive season”, will have a positive impact on the used market further down the line.
“These sales are important to the second-hand vehicle market, as rental models will filter down to the used-vehicle market in a year or two, helping to alleviate the relative shortage of quality, low-mileage pre-owned models that have been in short supply due to the COVID pandemic and sell-offs by the rental companies,” says Dommisse.
In terms of vehicles exports, Naamsa warns of the impact of “persistently high inflation and aggressive interest-rate hikes in many advanced and developing countries at present”, though still remains optimistic over the medium term. For the record, year-to-date export sales sit at 326 516 units, some 17.9% ahead of the corresponding period in 2021.
Two celebrated South Africans – legendary Generations actor Sello Maake kaNcube and feisty Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk – feature in a national Budget Insurance ad campaign that pulls on the heartstrings and has received enthusiastic responses from the public.
PARTNERED CONTENT
KaNcube and De Klerk have drawn a lot of attention lately, but it had nothing to do with Principal Thobakgale or the Springboks’ European tour. Instead, our national treasures starred in a pair of Budget Insurance ads that remind us “bad things happen to good South Africans.”
In the first ad, kaNcube is depicted as one of the good South Africans who are insured by Budget Insurance (the company styles itself as the “Official Good South Africans Insurer”). The legendary actor is shown being mistaken for his well-known character in the Generations TV soap opera wherever he goes, which he accepts with frustration (but good grace, of course) even after his car gets stolen.
“KaNcube is a hardworking actor who has played thousands of roles yet continues to be referred to as Archie – a nod to his legendary role of Archie Moroka. Even ama 2000 get the reference – Archie is iconic,” says Susan Steward, head of marketing at Budget Insurance.
De Klerk, in turn, has put his 5-foot-7.5-inch (1.71m) body on the line for our national rugby team on many occasions. He famously “broke the internet” by wearing swim briefs in the colours of the national flag following South Africa’s Rugby World Cup victory in 2019 and, in the second Budget Insurance ad, he sports his cheeky apparel again (“with our national treasure on his, um, national treasures”).
“When Faf’s double-cab bakkie is involved in an accident, he’s reminded that when bad things happen, Budget doesn’t faf around,” Steward adds.
Budget Insurance has been a partner of Cars.co.za for approximately 2.5 years, during which time it has sponsored our Car Insurance page (get a quote and save!), been a primary sponsor of videos reviews on our YouTube channel (with in excess of 333k subscribers) and has shared several articles – that offer consumers valuable advice on car insurance – with our site (we list them at the end of this article).
A few Twitter reactions to the ads:
The new @budgetins advert featuring "Archie" – @sellomkn is dope too!!!! 'Who would steal Archie's car, maan?!' 😅😂🤣
New Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato Primed for Gravel Travel
Like Porsche’s freshly minted 911 Dakar, the new V10-powered Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato is effectively a supercar capable of heading off the beaten track…
Not content to let Volkswagen Group sibling Porsche have all the fun with its freshly revealed 911 Dakar, Lamborghini has whipped the wraps off the new Huracán Sterrato, which will go into production from February 2023.
Just 1 499 units will be built, which makes it even more exclusive than the 911 Dakar. At this stage, it’s not clear whether any units are destined for South Africa.
According to the Italian firm, each example will combine the driving experience of a supercar with that of a rally car, allowing for oodles of thrills whether tackling tarmac or gravel. It could, of course, turn out to be the final model variant in the Huracán range – and perhaps even the last of the atmospheric V10 – before its successor debuts.
The Huracán Sterrato is powered by the company’s naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine, which here sends 449 kW and 565 Nm to all four wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and benefits from a mechanical self-locking differential at the rear. Lamborghini says it will complete the 0-100 kph sprint in 3.4 seconds, before topping out at 260 kph (a figure likely stunted by those special all-terrain tyres).
What makes a Huracán Sterrato off-road ready?
The ground clearance has been increased by 44 mm compared with the Huracán Evo, while the front and rear track widths grow by 30 mm and 34 mm, respectively. The Sant’Agata Bolognese-based firm’s designers have furthermore added aluminium underbody protection, reinforced sills, a rear diffuser and prominent wheel-arch extensions, along with extra LEDs on the front end, roof rails and a scoop feeding clean air to the rear-mounted engine.
The braking system comprises aluminium fixed monoblock callipers with six pistons fore and four pistons aft, along with ventilated and cross-drilled carbon-ceramic discs measuring 380 mm in diameter and with a 38 mm thickness at the front, and 356 mm diameter and 32 mm thickness at the rear.
The brakes are framed by 19-inch rims wrapped in “custom-engineered” Bridgestone Dueler AT002 tyres that measure 235/40 R19 on the front axle and 285/40 R19 at the rear. Interestingly, Lamborghini has gone for run-flat technology, guaranteeing a minimum of 80 km of travel at 80 kph with zero pressure.
The Sterrato furthermore comes with an updated version of the Lamborghini Integrated Vehicle Dynamics system, with specific Strada and Sport calibrations. It also gains a new Rally mode for “low-grip conditions”.
Inside, you’ll find Alcantara Verde Sterrato upholstery, along with new graphics for the infotainment system. In addition, the instruments feature a digital inclinometer complete with pitch-and-roll indicator, a compass, geographic co-ordinate indicator and steering-angle indicator.
Drive to Revive Ep2 – We Race in the World’s first GR Yaris Cup
Our Stig that talks, Ashley Oldfield, stepped up against multiple national champion Deon Joubert and several other racing journalists in Cape Town. Does he have what it takes as he claims to be SA’s fastest motoring journalist?
We follow the new Toyota GR Cup series with a blow-by-blow account from the driver’s seat of what goes through the head of a racing driver when the pressure is ramped up to maximum.
Keep a look out for the upcoming videos as the season unfolds with driver scuffles, bumps and bashes as rivalries develop.
