What is a credit score and why is it important for vehicle finance?
Here we weigh in on why it’s so important to have a good credit score when you’re seeking approval for vehicle finance.
Firstly, you probably have a credit score already – almost all South African adults have one – you just don’t know what it is! However, your credit score is a critical piece of information that impacts whether you can get credit to buy a car.
It is a very good idea to find out what your credit score is and make sure it is good enough that you can get the very best deal when you want to buy the car of your dreams.
What exactly is a credit score? How will it affect your car finance deal?
When you apply for credit for a car, you are asking a bank to lend you hundreds of thousands of Rands over many years. That means you are promising to pay the bank a significant sum of money every month for, on average, 6 years! What the bank wants to know is whether it can trust you to repay your loan. Your credit score is basically a measure that a bank can use to work out whether it can trust you.
Who calculates your credit score?
Your credit score is calculated by a Credit Bureau. A Credit Bureau has spent years tracking you by talking to all the banks as well as various lenders. If you have a store card at Truworths, for example, and if you have a DStv, Vodacom or MTN account, the bureau knows about all of these. The bureau gets data from all of these places and works out how good you are at paying the bills you have every month right now.
They then do a lot of fancy mathematics to estimate how good you will be at paying any new accounts you might want in the future. The result of all that “fancy maths” is your Credit Score.
Why your credit score is important to your vehicle loan?
Are you thinking about buying a car? Perhaps you’re researching a car that you have your eye on; perhaps you’ve even put through a lead on a car you’d like to test drive. If that’s the case, it’s likely that you will soon find a car that suits your requirements (and, ostensibly, your budget) and sign an offer to purchase (OTP) at a dealership, after which its staff will help you to fill in a vehicle-finance application.
They will send this application to ALL the banks, every bank you apply to will get your credit score from the bureau they use. The credit score they get is a MAJOR factor in the decision they make. That is why it is important that you know what it is. Only 30% of car-finance applications are currently being approved. That means 70% of applicants see their dreams of buying a car (new or used) dashed.
How do I find out what my credit score is?
Image: Vecteezy.
Therefore, before you set off on your car-shopping journey, it’s best to know whether you’re likely to be approved for vehicle finance before you set your heart on a prospective purchase (irrespective of whether you believe you can afford the monthly repayments for that vehicle).
Important note: There are several credit bureaus in South Africa and they all employ really smart mathematicians, but these number-crunching experts do not always agree with each other! Therefore, some bureaus will give you a better score than others. Different banks use different credit bureaus – that is why your dealership will send it to all the banks in order to try to get the best result for you.
Modern SUVs are also family cars. You know they work for daily driving, in town. But what about off-road? We help you choose the best SUVs for off-road driving.
You need a family vehicle that is equally at home trundling through gridlock traffic and conquering dunes during that year-end vacation road trip. That means you must know which are the best SUVs for off-road driving. And with all our experience, we are here to help.
While cars are designed to be driven primarily on tar, there’s an enthusiastic segment of the car-buying public looking to purchase vehicles based on their off-road capabilities.
That is why we’ve used all our testing and driving experience with the latest South African SUV models to create a list of the best SUVs for off-road driving. To help you choose, we rated these SUVs based on their ability to traverse routes where all-wheel drive traction is required. We factored in ground clearance, approach/departure angles, low-range gearbox availability and off-road driving modes.
Toyota Fortuner
Ground clearance: 279 mm
Approach/Departure angles: 29/25 degrees
Low range: Yes
Off-road modes: No
Diff lock: Yes, rear
Priced from: R746 500 (January 2026)
Wading depth: 700 mm
With multiple #CarsAwards category wins under its belt, there are many reasons why the Toyota Fortuner is a fantastic all-rounder. But the current version is due for replacement this year. So if you are buying, it’s worth considering that.
With global production winding down, the 11-year-old Fortuner feels, well, old. Its engines and 6-speed automatic transmission feel very slow and old-school compared to the newer 8-, 9-, and 10-speed automatics offered by rivals.
Cabin ergonomics and comfort are nowhere close to the Everest, and the Fortuner’s third-row seating configuration is a terrible design.
The Fortuner’s strength lies in its proven Hilux twin platform and Toyota’s excellent build quality. These SUVs go where they are needed, year after year, without issue. Even in demanding conditions, way beyond what most urban owners will ever subject them to.
One of the features that makes the Fortuner such a trusted off-road SUV is Toyota South Africa’s dealership support. If you do suffer a mechanical failure, help is never too far away thanks to Toyota’s strong after-sales support and extensive dealer network.
You can wait for the new Fortuner, which is due later this year, or buy the rugged, proven but ageing current one. And maybe get a good deal on runout stock.
The MU-X is the SUV twin of Isuzu’s popular and proven D-Max bakkie range. Like all contenders in the bakkie-based SUV segment, MU-X engineers really know a thing or two about combining excellent off-roading capabilities with family-oriented comfort and practicality.
The 7-seater Isuzu MU-X has a reasonably modern interior with some recent infotainment screen upgrades. Cabin comfort is good, and the third-row seating is much better than the Fortuner’s. It offers a fully flat, highly functional load area, with the second- and third-row seating folded.
The MU-X 4×4 is available only with Isuzu’s 3.0-litre turbodiesel; the more affordable and less powerful 1.9-litre turbodiesel isn’t offered with 4×4. Isuzu’s engines don’t make class-leading power and they can be noisy. But they are also bombproof.
There’s a long history of Isuzu optimising the ride quality of its KB and D-Max bakkies for local gravel-road conditions. That applies to the Isuzu SUV, too. With the MU-X based on the current D-Max, it does have that Isuzu ride and handling confidence on corrugated Karoo backroads.
Ford’s rival to the Fortuner is the stylish Everest. Ford says it is a Prado rival but the Everest is built on the Ranger bakkie platform and therefore competes more directly with the Fortuner, which is built on a Hilux platform.
The Everest matches the Fortuner in off-road capability but has much better in-car connectivity, active safety features and ride comfort. The Everest is the slightly more practical of the 2 with its 3rd row of seats that fold completely flat, as opposed to the Fortuner’s terrible fold-up arrangement.
Significant engine changes are happening to the Everest in 2026. Gone is the 2.0 bi-turbodiesel (BiT), which was one of the best diesel SUV engines available: powerful, quiet and reasonably economical. Ford’s 2.0 single-turbodiesel (SiT) is replacing it, but there’s a significant power loss involved, dropping from the BiT’s 154 kW to the SiT’s 125 kW. For a vehicle of its size and weight, that will impact highway and sand-driving performance for Everest owners who get the 2.0 SiT.
The 3.0 V6 turbodiesel continues unchanged. Ford’s Everest V6 is much more powerful than its rivals and delivers very capable highway cruising, towing and dune-driving performance. Ford’s adding the 2.3-litre turbopetrol engine option, too, which delivers 222 kW, but it’s very heavy on fuel and South African large SUV buyers have traditionally ignored powerful petrol options.
If you want an Everest that’s ready to conquer any terrain, be sure to get one in Sport or Wildtrak trim, where all-terrain tyres are fitted. Avoid the ultra-luxurious Platinum version. Its oversized 21-inch wheels and low-profile highway tyres degrade ride quality and are vulnerable to flats or wheel damage on badly corrugated dirt roads or mild off-road trails.
We’ll miss the Mitsubishi Pajero, of which production will soon end after many decades of service. Your next best bet in the Mitsubishi stable is the Pajero Sport.
It’s an incredibly underrated all-terrain SUV, with its excellent SuperSelect transfer case. This system is much more advanced than those in other SUVs in the segment. How? Most SUVs lock the drive 50/50 in 4H on gravel roads, but the Pajero Sport’s SuperSelect can vary the torque. That enables you to keep steering control and traction through long dirt-road corners, even at high speeds. This is instead of the extreme understeer that comes with a traditional transfer case, which locks the drive 50/50.
The other significant advantage of SuperSelect is that you can use it on sealed roads, such as highways or tarred roads. That’s unlike other SUVs, which can’t use their 4H system on a tar road due to the risk of damaging the drivetrain. So when it’s raining and you are towing a really heavy trailer or caravan up a steep mountain pass with tight hairpin corners, you can use SuperSelect to guarantee traction, hugely reducing the risk of mid-corner traction loss and slippage.
With one engine and gearbox shared across 3 derivatives, the 2.4-litre turbodiesel delivers 133 kW and 430 Nm. It, too, offers seating for 7 and we’d argue it’s one of the more stylish and capable adventure SUVs out there.
The current generation is often overlooked in favour of the more powerful Fortuner and Everest, which have more luxurious cabins. The Mitsubishi is still a stalwart of the segment and remains a trusty off-roading option from Japan.
You may wonder why this tiny toy (by comparison) is listed among these large off-road-ready SUVs, but don’t be fooled – the Suzuki Jimny is phenomenally capable when the tarmac turns to rocks and sand.
There’s no diff lock, but a trick traction control system that simulates a similar effect. Body-on-frame construction, low-range gearing, and solid axles front and rear give this small Suzuki big off-roading capability.
With its short wheelbase, lightweight body and incredible approach and departure angles, the Suzuki Jimny simply clambers over obstacles you would never dream possible. The 3-door model is sold as a 4-seater, but the cabin is quite confined and the load-bay minuscule, so rather just fold the rear seats down and run it as a 2-seater. The 5-door is significantly more spacious, but that’s not saying much…
The Jimny can feel very underpowered at altitude, and it is not the most comfortable long-distance tarmac touring vehicle. It is also very susceptible to crosswinds and lane wandering. The Jimny’s small tyres mean low grip during emergency braking or evasive manoeuvring on tar.
Terrible aerodynamics lead to remarkably high fuel consumption for such a light, modestly powered vehicle. And with a tiny fuel tank, the touring range in a Jimny is limited, so be sure to plan refuelling points when you go journeying somewhere like Namibia.
Mahindra’s bakkies have won over South Africa’s demanding double cab customers. So it’s only logical that an SUV version with all the Mahindra all-terrain driving confidence would be a great deal, too.
The Scorpio N is a body-on-frame 7-seater SUV at a very affordable price point. It has considerable all-terrain ability for families that really want to live the adventure life while taking in all those Karoo backroads.
Like its Japanese rivals, the Scorpio N has a rugged steel ladder-frame chassis with semi-independent front suspension. But importantly, the rear axle is semi-independent, allowing it to roll over undulating terrain without significant changes in ground clearance.
The cabin is comfy, and for the price, the higher-trim Scorpio Ns are very well equipped. Unfortunately, like the Fortuner, the third-row seating arrangement in the Scorpio N isn’t brilliant.
Mahindra’s 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine isn’t wildly powerful, but its 128 kW and 400 Nm deliver decent cruising performance. And when you do engage low-range, there’s lots of torque to keep the Scorpio N crawling up steep, challenging, off-road trails.
Targeting South African SUV buyers who want true off-road ability for not too much money, there is a Mahindra that’s completely trail-ready off the showroom floor: the Z8 Adventure. This version of the Scorpio N features all those off-road accessories and must-haves that you’d ordinarily have to purchase and have fitted by an aftermarket specialist, like proper all-terrain tyres and steel bumpers.
The Mahindra Scorpio N Z8 Adventure is a bargain and one of the best SUVs for off-road driving. Its only limitation is low ground clearance at 187 mm.
There are so many Chinese SUVs on sale but very few have real off-road ability. The pioneer of Chinese SUVs with true off-road-conquering technical features is GWM’s appropriately named Tank.
With its Tonka Truck design and proportions, this GWM signals significant capability. And the hardware doesn’t disappoint, making this one of the best SUVs for off-road driving.
The Tank 300 is everything a demanding 4×4 driver desires: body-on-frame construction, heavy-duty axles, and an advanced BorgWarner traction control system. Add to that, it has front and rear axle lockers, something its Japanese or American rivals like the Fortuner, MU-X and Everest, don’t have. There’s even a Jeep Wrangler-type sway-bar disconnect to allow for extreme wheel articulation when you need to crawl over obstacles in really rocky terrain.
Engine choices are either a powerful but fuel-hungry hybrid 2.0-litre turbopetrol, the same 2.0-litre without the hybrid battery or a 2.4-litre turbodiesel. That diesel makes the most sense in South African conditions, especially if you plan to use your Tank 300 for true adventure touring and long-distance journeys.
The Tank 300 might have rugged styling and real off-road ability, but it also offers a rather comfortable and luxurious cabin. As you’d expect from GWM, the trim quality is premium, and there’s every imaginable screen function and UX assistant.
In 2025, as many as 24 models on South Africa’s new-vehicle market each sold fewer than 10 units. Meet Mzansi’s single-figure sellers: the “least-sold” cars last year…
2025 saw 24 models each sell fewer than 10 units
From low-volume supercars to discontinued models
Tipo, I-Pace, Roma, S8, e-tron GT, X25 make list again
We’ve already brought you the list of South Africa’s best-selling passenger vehicles of 2025, as well as the country’s most popular bakkies. Now it’s time to turn our attention to the other end of the sales charts: yes, the new-vehicle market’s single-figure sellers from last year. Based on our analysis, as many as 24 models each sold fewer than 10 units in 2025. These are SA’s least-sold cars.
Before we dive into the figures, we’d like to point out there are various potential reasons vehicles might find themselves on this list. For instance, a couple of the models below have not yet been launched (with the registered units seemingly coming into SA for homologation purposes), while several others have been completely discontinued (so, stock was limited, to say the least).
Unsurprisingly, Ferrari’s 12Cilindri ended 2025 in single figures (though only just).
Furthermore, multi-million-rand supercars tend to be low volume by design – as you’ll see below, there are several Ferrari models here. That said, for the models mentioned on this least-sold list – which, for the record, is restricted to light vehicles and based on figures reported to Naamsa – we’ll do our best to provide some context. Right, let’s take a closer look…
SA new-vehicle market’s least-sold cars of 2025
As mentioned, low-volume manufacturer Ferrari has a strong presence here, with every model bar the 296 GTS (which hit 22 registrations) coming in at under 10 units in 2025. Indeed, the 12Cilindri and Purosangue each managed 9 units, while the Amalfi-preceding Roma added 5 units. Finally, the 296 GTB and SF90 settled on 4 units apiece.
Despite being discontinued in 2023, BAIC sold 8 “new” X25 units in 2025.
Despite the fact the BAIC X25 was discontinued in South Africa way back in early 2023, the Chinese brand’s local division curiously registered as many as 8 units in 2025. That’s more than the Toyota GR Corolla (7 units) managed last year, though it’s worth noting only very limited quantities of the outgoing version of this all-paw hot hatch (a revised iteration is due to land soon; check out pricing) were set aside for SA.
Just as it did in 2024, the fully electric Audi e-tron GT made the single-figure sellers list in 2025, though at least increased its tally from 4 to 7 units. With production of all Jaguar models having come to an end as the British brand prepares to pivot to a new product strategy, the effectively discontinued E-Pace (6 units), F-Type (5 units) and I-Pace (4 units) all ended last year in single figures.
Toyota sold 4 examples of the Crown last year.
From what we can tell, the last 6 units of the Renault Mégane RS 300 Trophy have finally been sold in South Africa, with the likewise-discontinued Honda BR-V managing 4 units. Interestingly, the Toyota Crown (4 units) also made the list in 2025, though we should keep in mind the Japanese firm’s local division has not been actively marketing this hybrid model (it’s not even listed on Toyota SA Motors’ website) owing to a limited allocation.
Meanwhile, the Audi A8 – or, more specifically, the S8, since this Audi Sport variant is the only A8 derivative available locally – ended 2025 on 3 units (a single unit fewer than the prior year). Various since-discontinued models from Stellantis camp also made an appearance on the least-sold list: the Opel Crossland (3 units), Peugeot 208 (2 units), Fiat Tipo (1 unit), Opel Zafira (1 unit) and Peugeot 3008 (1 unit).
The WRX is available locally only on “special order”.
These days available locally only on “special order”, the Subaru WRX ended 2025 with just 2 units sold. Finally, a single unit of each of the Kia EV6 and Audi Q6 e-tron – both likely imported for homologation purposes – were registered in 2025, along with a sole example of the discontinued Toyota C-HR.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About South Africa’s Least-Sold Cars of 2025
Q: Why do some popular car brands have models with single-figure sales?
A: Many vehicles on this list, such as the Fiat Tipo (1 unit) or Renault Mégane RS 300 Trophy (6 units), have been officially discontinued, meaning dealers were only registering final “runout” stock. Others, like the Toyota Crown (4 units), are available in extremely limited quantities and are not actively marketed to the general public.
Q: Are supercars like Ferrari always expected to be on the single-figure sellers list?
A: Generally, yes. Multi-million-rand supercars are low-volume by design. In 2025, every Ferrari model except the 296 GTS fell into the single-figure category, including the new 12Cilindri and Purosangue, which each recorded 9 units sold.
Q: What is the reason for a single registration of an unreleased model?
A: When a single unit of a new model is registered — such as the Kia EV6 or Audi Q6 e-tron in 2025 — it is typically imported by the manufacturer for homologation purposes. This process is required to certify the vehicle for the South African market before it can be officially launched to the public.
Lexus GX luxury SUV – 5 genuine accessories to consider
Keen to kit out your new Lexus GX luxury SUV with some tasty genuine accessories? Here are 5 factory-backed adds-on available from the Japanese brand in South Africa…
Right from its launch in April 2025, the Lexus GX proved a hit with luxury SUV buyers in South Africa. It’s thus no surprise the Toyota-backed brand’s local division offers a wide range of genuine accessories for this model.
So, which ones should you consider? Well, our selection of 5 genuine accessories for the ladder-frame GX 550 includes both aesthetic and functional components. Lexus South Africa fully backs each item, meaning the vehicle’s warranty and maintenance plan remain intact after fitment.
As a reminder, the 3rd-generation GX – which is closely related to the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado – hit the local market in the 2nd quarter of 2025. At launch, the line-up comprised the 5-seater GX 550 Overtrail (also available in bi-tone guise) and the 7-seater GX 550 SE. Both employ a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 petrol engine that delivers 260 kW and 650 Nm to all 4 wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission.
1. Bashplate
Lexus SA offers GX buyers a so-called “bashplate”, which the company describes as “impact resistant to prevent damage” to the undercarriage (including the engine, transmission and other critical components). Note buyers must order this Lexus-branded item in conjunction with a front skid plate and skid-plate bracket.
2. Roof rack
The official Lexus GX genuine accessories catalogue includes a pair of roof-rack options – one for the Overtrail derivative and one for the SE variant (models that feature different roof-rail arrangements). The Japanese brand says its roof racks allow you to take advantage of packing space on the vehicle’s roof. It adds that they are “durable and corrosion resistant”.
3. Black emblem overlays
Looking for a quick-and-easy visual customisation that won’t void your warranty? Well, Lexus SA offers these subtle black emblem overlays for the GX’s rear badging. Fashioned from what the firm dubs “tough and durable” black ABS plastic, the overlays have been designed to fit “precisely” over the existing chrome badges.
4. Bonnet protector
Worried your new Lexus GX might sustain unsightly stone chips on the leading edge of its bonnet? Consider this genuine bonnet protector, which the automaker says will protect against “light damage and road debris”. Created from “high-strength” acrylic, Lexus says this tinted item “resists cracking and UV discolouration”. Furthermore, it’s easily removable for hassle-free cleaning.
5. Rock rails
Available only for the Overtrail grade (and not the road-biased SE trim level, which comes with auto-retractable side-step rails), these tubular rock rails offer added protection to the GX’s door sills and door bottoms during off-road jaunts. They replace the Overtrail’s standard side steps. Note that they don’t come bundled as a set; instead, buyers have to order a left item as well as a right item.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lexus GX Genuine Accessories
Q: Will fitting genuine accessories to my Lexus GX void its warranty?
A: No, your vehicle’s mechanical warranty and maintenance plan remain intact after fitment because these accessories are factory backed and fully endorsed by Lexus South Africa.
Q: Which accessories are specifically recommended for off-road protection?
A: For off-road enthusiasts, Lexus offers a high-strength bashplate to protect the undercarriage and engine, as well as rock rails. Note that the rock rails are specifically designed for the Overtrail grade and replace the standard side steps to protect the door sills during technical driving.
Q: Are the roof-rack options the same for all Lexus GX models?
A: No. There are two distinct roof-rack options available: one tailored for the Overtrail derivative and another for the SE variant. This is because the two models feature different roof-rail arrangements to suit their respective design and utility focus.
South Africa’s best-selling ladder-frame SUVs in 2025
Which ladder-frame SUVs proved most popular in South Africa in 2025 and which ones struggled by comparison? We’ve rummaged through the sales figures to find out…
Fortuner still SA’s favourite ladder-frame SUV
LC Prado pushes ahead of Jimny and Everest
GWM Tank 300 registrations surge circa-200%
MU-X retains 7th position as Scorpio-N slides
Lexus GX breaks into top 10 in its debut year
GWM Tank 500 climbs as Wrangler tumbles
While hatchbacks and unibody crossovers yet again dominated the list of South Africa’s best-selling passenger vehicles for 2025, a few ladder-frame SUVs also proved popular. So, which body-on-frame SUVs sold up a storm and which ones struggled last year?
Well, we’ve sifted through the 2025 sales statistics to determine exactly how well – or indeed otherwise – the various ladder-frame SUVs that were available in Mzansi last year sold. Compared with our 2024 list, there’s just a single new entrant.
Before we dive in, note that since Mercedes-Benz doesn’t report sales figures to Naamsa, it’s not clear how many G-Class units were registered locally in 2025. And it’s the same case with Ineos and its Grenadier as well as with LDV and its D90.
That said, we found as many as 16 ladder-frame SUVs scattered through Naamsa’s sales figures for 2025. Below, we’ll examine exactly how well each one performed last year, including a look any year-on-year changes in sales…
Fortuner retains title as Prado climbs
The 7-seater Toyota Fortuner was yet again South Africa’s favourite ladder-frame SUV, despite local sales dipping 15.2% year on year to 9 049 units. For the record, the Prospecton-built stalwart – which shares much with Mzansi’s best-selling vehicle overall, the Hilux – ranked 15th overall in the passenger-vehicle segment.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado – which gained a new VX-L flagship derivative late in 2025 – climbed 2 places to (just about) secure 2nd position, improving on its 2024 tally by a considerable 68.3% to end the year on 3 545 units.
Jimny and Everest each slip a place
Finishing a mere 19 units behind the Prado, the Suzuki Jimny had to settle for 3rd place (down a ranking on its 2024 performance). In the end, sales of the Hamamatsu-based firm’s plucky little off-roader – which is offered locally in both 3- and 5-door guise – fell 6.0% year on year to 3 526 units.
The Prado’s rise also meant the Ford Everest slipped a place to 4th, despite sales of the Blue Oval brand’s Thai-built adventure SUV increasing 10.8% year on year to 3 444 units. Note that in some point in the opening half of 2026 a refreshed version of the Everest will hit the local market, complete with a revised engine line-up.
Tank 300 sales surge nearly 200%
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 – which may well become available locally in 341 kW hybrid form during 2026 – held steady in 5th place, with local registrations of this ladder-frame SUV increasing 12.2% year on year to 1 736 units.
But the body-on-frame SUV that posted the strongest year-on-year growth was the GWM Tank 300. In the end, local sales of this Chinese-built model – which crucially became available with a turbodiesel powertrain late in the opening quarter of 2025 – surged 196.6% compared with 2024, pushing its tally to 1 560 units and seeing it climb 2 spots to 6th.
MU-X keeps 7th as Scorpio-N slides
The final body-on-frame SUV to breach 4 figures in 2025 was the Isuzu MU-X, which could only retain 7th position despite local sales improving 45.4% year on year to 1 326 units. Meanwhile, the Mahindra Scorpio-N slipped 2 spots to 8th, enduring a 9.7% year-on-year slide in sales to 882 units.
Interestingly, the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series – which includes both the 76- and 78-badged models, though we suspect the former made up the bulk of the 434 units sold – rose 2 rankings to 9th on the back of a 77.9% year-on-year increase in registrations.
Lexus GX cracks top 10 in debut year
Despite hitting the market only in March 2025, the new Lexus GX – which is based on the Prado but features a twin-turbo V6 petrol engine and a starting price of over R1.8-million – broke into the top 10 last year, with 347 units sold. For the record, that also gave it the title of Lexus SA’s best-selling nameplate in 2025.
Meanwhile, sales of the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport dropped 17.0% year on year to 253 units, seeing this 7-seater slip out of the top 10 (down 2 rankings to 11th). The Lexus LX, however, improved its total by 14.0% compared to 2024, retaining 12th place on 179 units.
Tank 500 climbs as Wrangler tumbles
Like its 300-badged sibling, the GWM Tank 500 (which is not available in turbodiesel form … just yet, anyway) enjoyed strong year-on-year growth last year, improving on its 2024 effort by a whopping 118.6% to reach 153 units and rise 2 spots to 13th.
The Jeep Wrangler (130 units; down 55.2% year on year), meanwhile, tumbled 4 places to 14th, though still finished well ahead of the BAIC B40 Plus (67 units; down 46.0% year on year), which dropped 2 rankings to 15th. The final spot on the list went to the since-discontinued Y62-generation Nissan Patrol, with 11 units sold (down 86.4% compared to 2024).
*Table collated by Cars.co.za based on figures reported to Naamsa
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About South Africa’s Top Ladder-Frame SUVs of 2025
Q: Which ladder-frame SUV was the top seller in South Africa in 2025?
A: The Toyota Fortuner remained South Africa’s favourite ladder-frame SUV in 2025, recording 9 049 units sold. Despite a 15.2% year-on-year decline in sales, the Prospecton-built model comfortably maintained its 1st-place ranking in the segment.
Q: Which off-road SUV showed the most significant growth in 2025?
A: The GWM Tank 300 posted the strongest year-on-year growth in the segment, with sales surging by 196.6% compared to 2024. This performance was bolstered by the introduction of a turbodiesel powertrain, helping the Chinese-built model climb two spots to 6th position overall with 1 560 units.
Q: How did the premium ladder-frame SUV market change in 2025?
A: The year saw a significant shift as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado climbed to 2nd place with a 68.3% sales increase (3 545 units). Additionally, the new Lexus GX made a strong debut, breaking into the top 10 with 347 units sold since its March launch, becoming Lexus SA’s best-selling nameplate for the year.
The Mini Countryman Rugged brings some adventuring lifestyle to the fashionable and funky family crossover. Here’s pricing and specifications.
Accessorised Countryman brings all-terrain tyres to the party
Choice of 1.5 or 2.0 turbopetrol engines
Pricing from R833 903
The Mini Countryman Rugged has gone on sale in South Africa and is limited to just 100 units. Essentially, the mechanicals remain unchanged but some unique design elements and accessories have been added.
You can spot the Mini Countryman Rugged with model-specific bonnet stripes, grille decal as well as 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres, which will help with grip on low-traction surfaces like gravel.
Inside, the cabin gain all-weather mats which will help reduce the guilt about bringing mud and dirt into the vehicle. Owners have the option of two complimentary roof-mounted accessories, depending on their needs.
Mini is offering a roofbox for additional storage capacity, or for the cycling fanatics, there’s a roof-mounted bike carrier. The Mini Countryman Rugged is available in a choice of four exterior colours: Nanuq White, Smokey Green, Melting Silver or Legend Grey.
In terms of powertrain, the Mini Countryman is available in C and S configuration. As a reminder, the Countryman C has a turbocharged 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine making 115 kW and 230 Nm. Mini reckons the C can accelerate to 100 kph in 9.0 seconds.
The Countryman S makes use of a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and all-wheel drive, and thanks to 150 kW and 300 Nm, is good for a 0-100 kph sprint in 7.4 seconds. Both derivatives feature a 7-speed automatic transmission.
How much does the Mini Countryman Rugged Edition cost in South Africa?
What is the price of the new Mini Countryman in South Africa?
As of late 2025/early 2026, the new Mini Countryman pricing is as follows (subject to change):
Mini Countryman C: Starts from approximately R742 220.
Mini Countryman S ALL4: Starts from approximately R825 074.
Mini Countryman John Cooper Works (JCW): Starts from approximately R988 768.
Mini Countryman SE (Electric): Starts from approximately R1 110 000.
Is the Mini Countryman available as an electric vehicle in South Africa?
Yes, the Mini Countryman SE ALL4 is the fully electric variant available in South Africa. It features dual electric motors providing all-wheel drive, producing 230 kW and offering a claimed driving range of approximately 433 km on a full charge.
What engine options are available for the petrol Mini Countryman?
The local line-up includes three primary petrol engine options:
How fast is the Mini Countryman John Cooper Works (JCW)?
The high-performance Mini Countryman JCW ALL4 accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in just 5.4 seconds, making it the fastest model in the Countryman range.
What warranty and maintenance plan comes with the Mini Countryman?
Standard coverage for the Mini Countryman in South Africa typically includes a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km Motorplan (maintenance plan), which covers most service and maintenance costs.
Toyota GR Corolla (2026) Price & Specs
Pricing scoop! The updated Toyota GR Corolla will soon launch in SA, gaining revised front-end styling and the option of an automatic transmission. Here’s what it will cost…
Toyota’s revised GR Corolla to arrive in SA soon
Choice of 6-speed manual or new 8-speed auto
Circuit specification standard (Core falls away)
Been waiting patiently for a 2-pedal version of the Toyota GR Corolla to become available in South Africa? Well, an updated take on the Japanese firm’s C-segment hot hatch – complete with the option of an automatic transmission first detailed back in August 2024 – is expected to hit local dealerships soon. And we’ve managed to dig up pricing ahead of its official arrival.
According to our information, while the GR Corolla range will again comprise a pair of derivatives, the base “Core” grade will fall away. As such, the updated version of this all-paw hot hatch will be available exclusively in top-spec “Circuit” form, though customers will now be able to choose between a 6-speed manual gearbox and a new 8-speed automatic transmission (the latter with paddle shifters).
GR Corolla 8AT joins R1-million hot-hatch club
The rear-end design is seemingly unchanged.
From what we understand, the revised GR Corolla 1.6T Circuit 6MT will be priced at R985 200, representing a R37 100 increase over the outgoing version (and effectively raising the apex Corolla’s starting price by R101 600, with the R883 600 “Core” derivative dropped). Meanwhile, the new GR Corolla 1.6T Circuit 8AT will kick off at R1 010 700, rendering the auto-equipped version a 7-figure hot hatch.
For the record, the smaller GR Yaris 1.6T Rally 6MT costs R942 200, while the self-shifting GR Yaris 1.6T Rally 8AT is priced from R971 300. Other circa-R1-million hot hatches currently on the local market include the Volkswagen Golf 8.5 GTI (R908 000, though seemingly still in the pre-order phase), BMW M135 (R988 768), Honda Civic Type R (R1 021 600) and Audi S3 Sportback (R1 091 100).
GR Corolla engine upgraded to offer 400 Nm
Subtly revised model (note the new front-bumper design) at the top and the outgoing version at the bottom.
As before, the GR Corolla is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine (known internally as G16E-GTS), now with a peak power figure of 210 kW. That said, the lively little 3-pot’s maximum torque has been increased by 30 units to 400 Nm. Expect top speed to remain 230 kph.
The 8-speed auto, meanwhile, is the same transmission – complete with a dedicated oil cooler – used in the likewise evolved GR Yaris. In addition to the auto option and refreshed front-end styling (which ostensibly aids cooling), this update for the GR Corolla comprises changes to the suspension (including revised shock absorbers, a raised trailing-arm mounting point and tweaked rear coil springs), braking and steering systems, as well as what Toyota terms “improved chassis rigidity”.
Circuit specification to include plenty of kit
Now with the option of an automatic transmission.
Expect the Circuit specification to again include not only a limited-slip differential on each axle, a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof and bonnet vents (items that previously helped set it apart from the now-defunct Core variant) but also bi-LED auto-high-beam headlamps, synthetic leather-and-suede upholstery, adaptive cruise control, a head-up display and 18-inch alloy wheels (again wrapped in 235/40 R18 tyres). Paint-colour options are likely to include “Fierce Red” and “Glacier White”.
As a reminder, the manual-equipped GR Corolla launched in South Africa in mid-2023, with Toyota SA Motors offering this hot hatch “in limited numbers”. According to figures reported to Naamsa, 27 units were registered in Mzansi in 2023, rising to 42 units in 2024 before falling to just 7 units in 2025 (bringing the total to 76 units).
What does the revised Toyota GR Corolla cost in SA?
DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Toyota GR Corolla 1.6T Circuit 6MT
R985 200
Toyota GR Corolla 1.6T Circuit 8AT
R1 010 700
The prices above include Toyota SA Motors’ 3-year/100 000 km warranty and a 9-service/90 000 km service plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the updated Toyota GR Corolla in South Africa
Q: What are the new pricing and transmission options for the revised GR Corolla?
A: The updated Toyota GR Corolla range now starts at R985 200 for the 6-speed manual “Circuit” derivative. For the first time locally, a self-shifting option is available in the form of an 8-speed automatic transmission, which is priced at R1 010 700.
Q: How has the GR Corolla range been simplified for the 2026 launch?
A: Toyota South Africa has discontinued the entry-level “Core” grade. The hot hatch is now available exclusively in the higher-specification “Circuit” trim, which includes performance features like front and rear limited-slip differentials and a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof as standard.
Q: What technical and performance upgrades does the updated model feature?
A: While the 1.6-litre turbocharged engine maintains its 221 kW output, peak torque has increased by 30 Nm to a total of 400 Nm. The update also introduces a revised front bumper for better cooling, improved chassis rigidity and tweaked suspension components for sharper handling.
In a year defined by global upheaval and technological leaps, the flagship Kia Carnival 2.2 CRDi SXL 7-Seater proves that sometimes the best escape is found not in fantasy, but in a thoughtfully designed vehicle that turns even the most routine journeys into memorable adventures.
The year that was: Disruptive unpredictability
For all the combined computing power harnessed by AI engines, not one was able to summarise the year that was as one of disruptive unpredictability. Because that’s what it was: a turning point when the old world stopped as a troubled birth was being given to the new one. Looking back, few can argue that the relentless bombardment in 2025 of high global debt, political instability, climate change, corporate failures and shifting geopolitical blocs – to say nothing of AI – was unusually exhausting. By December, a break from it all couldn’t come soon enough.
Escaping reality: The search for the ideal ride
The Kia Carnival made light work of the traffic-clogged trip from Cape Town to Knysna.
Of course, escaping from reality – as the Back to the Future franchise would have you believe – requires not just any means of transport. (It just so happens that by the time the first film hit the circuit in 1985, the DeLorean project had already failed.) But the flagship Kia Carnival SXL we chose for our annual sashay from Cape Town to Knysna was the exact opposite. It was surprising and delightful at a time when the world seems to have gone to pot.
Why the Kia Carnival? Space, comfort & practicality, that’s why
The Carnival is excels at both moving people and engendering a sense of wellbeing via its luxurious, solid and refined cabin.
Now, it may be excessive to pick a R1.3-million luxury minivan for a mere 500 km jaunt. However, 7-seat SUVs simply lack the space to swallow beach chairs for four, bodyboards and, among others, a week’s worth of braai wood and accompanying potential behaviour-changing beverages. And for all their payload power, double-cab bakkies drive like bricks in the wind. Trailers, meanwhile – if for no other reason than that they slow you down and are a pain to park – are the equivalent of automotive chastity belts. So no. A van, if you can call it that, it had to be.
Packing perfection: Cargo capacity unleashed
Fold the third row and there’s still enough room for 4 people and a veritable mountain of luggage.
Come departure day, depending on one’s choice of life partner, the moments before luggage gets loaded are either characterised by a lack of anxiety … or the complete opposite at the sight of the ever-growing cargo consignment (mine’s the latter). Still, with the rear seats flattened, the cargo bay opens up like that of a Boeing. It reveals a level loading area able to stretch all the way to the first-row seatbacks, should you choose to remove the second row of seats, too. Like a punishment enthusiast, whatever was shoved into the Carnival’s circus tent-sized luggage hold was swallowed with a smile: packing turned into a painless party.
On the open road: Effortless cruising
Once in Knysna, the Carnival’s updated design drew appreciative glances.
Open road. Eighth gear. 120 kph. 1 900 rpm. David Ogilvy’s anthemic line in 1958 about ticking timepieces might have inadvertently brought fame to Rolls Royce’s NVH engineers, yet the Carnival’s turbodiesel engine, when treated civilly, is just as restrained. (Although the euphonic 12-speaker Bose system may have something to say about the former.)
Even a full-size mountain bike can be loaded upright into the Kia’s hold without removing a wheel.
Reaching Knysna from Cape Town is appreciably more scenic and relaxed when approached via Worcester and Robertson before rejoining the N2 at Swellendam. Most of the road is dual carriageway, although in peak holiday traffic, the section from Swellendam to Mossel Bay is not relaxing. Along with constant media pings about South African roads turning into death traps owed to ill-considered overtaking moves, this section feels like running the gauntlet.
Performance with purpose: Power when it counts
Thanks to 440 Nm of twist, the Kia made light work of the journey to Knysna.
It was on the N2 that the usually family-friendly, 7-seater Carnival showed a different side. With 440 Nm underfoot between 1 750 and 2 750 rpm, each ankle-twist turned the Kia into a cutlass, dispatching obstructive traffic (trailer-towers and caravan-pullers in particular). It comfortably conquered the Overberg’s hills and dales. Its table-top-flat torque curve belied the Kia’s capability as a low-flying cruise missile to disbelieving challengers.
Apart from Death Star-destroying torque at usable revs, the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine’s secondary benefit is exceptional fuel economy. We averaged a combined 7.4 L/100 km (comprising mainly highway driving, then short-hop urban driving in and around Knysna). With its 72-litre tank, a four-digit range is possible.
First-class Carnival: The passenger experience
The best seats in the house.
In another nod to Rolls-Royce, the best seats in the house belong to the passengers – specifically, the middle row. The two captain’s chairs (slideable, rotatable, removable – your choice) recline to a zen-like angle. Along with the pair of electric sliding doors, they continuously hogged the limelight.
The infotainment system’s a doddle to master, but a USB-A port or 2 would have been welcome to accompany the USB-C sockets.
The abundance of USB ports (and a wireless pad) immediately snuffed any FOMO fears, although admittedly at least one USB-A port would have been welcome instead of all of them being latest-gen USB-C. Oh, and the steering wheel-heating button is on the wrong side of the centre console, if that matters to anyone.
Fully loaded tech: Safety and personalisation
The Carnival SXL comes fully loaded.
As the range-topper, the SXL really does come fully loaded, and apart from a more contemporary exterior introduced during the Carnival range’s 2025 facelift, it’s worth knowing that behind the sophistication of the minimalist interior, a full active safety suite lurks in the background.
Even the tailgate opening speed can be adjusted.
Yet almost even more noteworthy is the available depth for personalisation. How fast would you like the electric tailgate to open or close? Your preferred number of lane change flashes: 3, 5, 7, or none? Or how about a reminder that the kids fiddled with the electric seat settings? What other car even offers such detailed configurability?
Conclusion: The ultimate life hack
Is there a more balanced family vehicle currently on sale in South Africa? The Carnival’s hard to beat…
It’s, uhm, über-geeky, we know. Yet in a time when many of the world’s super-rich happen to be hyper-nerds heading up tech disruptors headlining the nascent new world order, that’s hardly what one would define as bad company. And that’s the thing about the Kia Carnival SXL. Occupying a segment of one, it refuses to identify as either SUV or station wagon. Defying definition, from rands-per-feature to rands-per-kilowatt spent, there’s nothing else like it at the price: tech-heavy and driver-friendly, amidst a world that has gone off-script. It’s the ultimate life hack for what will most certainly be another year of algorithmic anarchy that awaits in 2026. And beyond.
The Renault Clio is no longer available new in South Africa. So, should you consider a used version of this 5th-gen French hatchback? Let’s investigate.
For those who appreciate a light hatchback, the list of “superminis” no longer available in South Africa is a dishearteningly long one. Household names like the Ford Fiesta, Kia Rio and Nissan Micra have – almost unfathomably – been put out to pasture. And the Renault Clio V is the latest to join this local directory of dearly departed.
The final iteration of Clio to do duty in Mzansi was the pre-facelift version of the 5th-generation model, though it both arrived late and left early. Curiously, the refreshed take on this BJA-series hatch didn’t ever materialise for the local market, while Renault SA effectively ruled out the Clio VI that was revealed for Europe. And that, as they say, was that.
The Clio V was revealed back in March 2019.
Sourced from Slovenia, the Clio V wasn’t nearly as popular in South Africa as its predecessor. In fact, while the 4th-gen hatchback attracted almost 35 000 sales locally, our calculations suggest its Mk5 successor could muster just 2 130 registrations (admittedly over a briefer period).
Its exit from the local market ended a run that started with the Clio II way back in 1999 (the 1st-gen model was never officially sold in SA). Still, while this storied nameplate’s 26-year lifecycle has wrapped up in Mzansi, there’s theoretically still a chance the Boulogne-Billancourt-based brand’s local distributor might one day relaunch the Clio name.
Renault Clio V model line-up in South Africa
SA had to wait for over 3 years for the Clio V to arrive.
The French automaker whipped the wraps off the Clio V at the Geneva International Motor Show in March 2019. However, with the broader automotive industry – like most other manufacturing sectors – grinding to a halt once the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, South Africans were forced to wait. And then wait some more.
After more than 3 years, the BJA-series hatchback finally reached Mzansi, officially touching down in February 2022. At launch, the local range comprised a trio of derivatives, each employing a turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine to drive the front wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox:
Clio 1.0 Turbo Life 5MT (74 kW/160 Nm)
Clio 1.0 Turbo Zen 5MT (74 kW/160 Nm)
Clio 1.0 Turbo Intens 5MT (74 kW/160 Nm)
Locally, the Clio V was available in a trio of trim levels.
Renault SA offered the Clio V with a choice of 3 trim levels, while the flagship “Intens” grade was furthermore available with an option pack comprising a larger touchscreen, a reverse-view camera, front parking sensors and 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.
In April 2023, the facelifted Clio V was revealed overseas, but – despite being planned for a local introduction – this updated version ultimately didn’t make it to SA “because of the [unfavourable] currency rate”. Though the last time a new Clio was registered in the local new-vehicle market was in October 2024, Renault SA effectively confirmed this model’s demise only in September 2025.
What are the Renault Clio V’s strengths?
A clear improvement in both cabin design and quality.
Much-improved cabin: While Renault made only evolutionary changes to the Clio V’s exterior design, that certainly wasn’t the case with the cabin. The French automaker not only rolled out fresh tech – including what it claimed was the “largest” (optional) infotainment screen in the class – but also markedly improved the fit and finish of the interior.
In the flagship Intens derivative, for instance, the interior door panels gained additional soft-touch inserts, with a similar treatment applied to the dashboard. Along with the mid-tier Zen variant, this derivative also gained a smattering of satin-chrome trim. Overall, the 5th-gen Clio’s cockpit looked and felt far more sophisticated than that of the comparatively cheap-and-cheerful Clio IV.
The smaller touchscreen that shipped standard.
Large boot (for the segment): When the Mk5 Clio was revealed in 2019, Renault claimed the hatchback boasted a “best-in-class” luggage capacity of 391 litres. Equipped with a height-adjustable floor, the boot certainly was capacious for the segment, while dropping the 60:40-split rear bench flat freed up a handy 1 069 litres. The loading lip, however, was a little higher than before.
Thanks to remarkably clever packaging, the BJA-series Clio – which was the first model built on the CMF-B HS platform – managed to offer a larger luggage compartment than that of its predecessor, despite being 12 mm shorter. There was also still adequate space for rear passengers.
Classy exterior styling.
Striking exterior styling: Since the Clio IV’s sleek exterior styling proved an absolute hit with buyers, it was hardly surprising that Renault didn’t make wholesale changes to this winning design formula. The result was a somewhat more premium, “grown-up” take on a largely familiar silhouette.
Key design tweaks included a wider grille, a more pronounced front bumper and a more distinctively sculpted bonnet, while C-shaped LED daytime running lights were rolled out, too. In short, while this model was still immediately recognisable as a Clio, it was even more visually striking than its forebears. And it’s a design we’d argue has aged rather well.
What are the Renault Clio V’s weaknesses?
In SA, all Clio V derivatives featured a manual gearbox.
No automatic option: Strangely, Renault SA offered the Clio V exclusively in manual form, meaning potential buyers seeking a 2-pedal model were forced to look elsewhere. Although the French firm’s local distributor seemingly had plans to introduce the option of an automatic, this never materialised.
That said, the turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine – bearing the “HR10DET” designation and shared with Indian-built budget models like the Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite – delivered satisfactory performance in the lightweight Clio via its 5-speed manual cog-swapper (though a 6th forward ratio would have been handy on the highway).
It was a fairly frugal combination, too, with Renault SA claiming a combined fuel consumption of 5.7 L/100 km. For the record, while this generation didn’t include a Renault Sport hot-hatch derivative, some overseas markets received a 96 kW/240 Nm 1.3 TCe variant (with a 7-speed dual-clutch ‘box), as well as petrol-hybrid and turbodiesel powertrains.
The Clio V’s standard service plan spanned just 2 years.
Stingy service plan: Let’s not beat about the bush: Renault SA’s standard service plan for the Clio V was far too short. Considering the raft of big-on-value Chinese crossovers (each featuring an attractive aftersales package) and Indian-built contenders descending on South Africa at the time, the BJA-series Clio’s 2-year/30 000 km service plan simply wasn’t generous enough.
So, when shopping on the used market, keep in mind that only the first 2 services would have been covered by Renault South Africa. It’s thus particularly important you check for evidence that the required maintenance thereafter was indeed carried out.
The ride was a little firm, particularly on the optional 17-inch alloys.
Slightly firm ride: Renault made a clear effort to endow the Clio V with tighter body control than its predecessor. Still, this change in persona came with something of a compromise: a slightly firmer ride. This stiffness was most obvious in the range-topping derivative fitted with optional 17-inch alloys (an inch larger than standard and shod with low-profile tyres).
In the end, while the Mk5 Clio’s ride-and-handling balance was by no means a weakness, the French hatch wasn’t quite as supple as a Volkswagen Polo nor as dynamic as a Ford Fiesta. So, if you’re a shopper who ranks ride quality particularly high on your list of priorities, we’d suggest including a stretch of less-than-perfect tarmac on your test-drive route.
How much is a used Renault Clio in SA?
The flagship Intens spec accounted for nearly 30% of listings at the time of writing.
As mentioned, the Clio V shipped with only a 2-year/30 000 km, with intervals of 15 000 km. However, this model also featured Renault’s 5-year/150 000 km mechanical warranty, along with a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. Take these details into consideration when browsing the used market.
Meanwhile, dealer-fitted accessories included items like a shark-fin antenna, Clio-branded door-sill protectors, a brushed-aluminium boot-sill protector, a swan-neck towbar and and even underbody courtesy lighting.
These were the paint colours offered in SA.
Of the used Renault Clio V listed on Cars.co.za at the time of writing, the mid-tier Zen trim level was the most prevalent, accounting for around 60% of stock. The range-topping Intens specification (29%) was next, with the entry-level Life grade making up the remaining 11%.
Interestingly, 2024 was easily the most popular model year, representing more than 65% of listed Clio V units at the time of writing (followed by 2022 on approximately 16%). Meanwhile, indicated mileage ranged from just 1 500 km to 92 000 km.
Below R200 000: Around 15% of listed Clio V units were priced below R200 000. We found all 3 trim levels present in this space, along with all model years bar 2025. The highest indicated mileage in this category was 78 000 km.
R200 000 to R250 000: A whopping 66% of listings fell into this narrow pricing bracket, including several examples with not even 25 000 km on their respective odometers. In fact, most units here had indicated mileages of well under 50 000 km.
R250 000 and up: The final 19% of listings were priced on the far side of R250 000. We found only mid-spec and flagship derivatives here, with most examples from the final 2 model years. The priciest Clio V we unearthed was a low-mileage 2025 Intens unit listed for R329 900.
For context on the figures above, note the last pricing we saw for the Clio V before it quietly exited South Africa’s new-vehicle market was R312 999 for the Life, R327 999 for the Zen and R367 999 for the Intens.
Which Renault Clio derivative should I choose?
Buyers need only decide on a trim level.
Considering the SA-spec Renault Clio V was available exclusively with a 1.0-litre turbopetrol motor and a 5-speed manual gearbox, no powertrain deliberations are required, with prospective buyers needing only to decide on the trim level.
Note the base Life grade missed out on curtain airbags, front foglamps, colour-coded exterior door handles and height adjustment for the driver’s seat, while also making do with a basic steering-wheel finish (rather than faux-leather) and lacking the satin-chrome interior trim of the other derivatives.
The Clio V scored a 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2019.
The mid-spec Zen specification – incidentally the most widespread on the used market – offered a decent mix of standard kit. This derivative furthermore featured a more premium fabric upholstery, though curiously (like the Life) did without electric windows at the rear.
Finally, the Intens variant was rather well equipped as standard, adding items like uprated LED headlamps, lane-departure warning, automatic climate control (rather than manual air con), rain-sensing wipers, a hands-free keycard, a 7.0-inch instrument cluster, wireless smartphone charging and a gloss-black exterior styling pack.
What are some alternatives to the Clio V?
The Clio V’s key competitor was the locally made VW Polo hatch.
In South Africa, the Clio V’s chief rival was the Kariega-built Volkswagen Polo (Mk6) hatchback, which positively dominated the segment. Another strong seller locally was the Indian-built Hyundai i20 (BI3 series), while the long-in-the-tooth 3rd-gen Mazda2 built up a modest but steady following.
Of course, a few other big-name B-segment hatchbacks left the local market close to or during the Clio V’s tenure. For instance, the 7th-gen Ford Fiesta and K14-series Nissan Micra both disappeared in 2022, while the YB-series Kia Rio officially exited Mzansi in 2024.
Various other B-segment hatches were also put out to pasture in SA.
Other far slower-selling alternatives included the P21-series Peugeot 208 (which has since also been quietly axed in South Africa) and the P2J0-series Opel Corsa (which soldiers on locally). Buyers in this segment might also have considered the 4th-gen Honda Fit and perhaps even high-spec versions of the Suzuki Baleno and Toyota Starlet, too.
Is the Renault Clio V a worthwhile used purchase?
A digital Clio V riding off into the sunset?
Thanks to the small-crossover craze, South Africa’s new-car buyers today have far fewer B-segment hatchback options than in years gone by. Yes, this once-bustling category (which Chinese brands have thus far left largely untapped) is a shell of its former self.
To make matters worse, several contenders in this space – including some that have since departed and some that remain – have evolved from humble runabouts into genuinely upmarket hatchbacks, with the concomitant increase in pricing rendering them inaccessible to many would-be buyers.
Today, the Clio V potentially offers strong value.
Still, while the Slovenia-built Clio Mk5 undoubtedly offers a more premium experience than its forebears, its residual values have clearly taken a hit since the nameplate’s local discontinuation. As such, this model is back within reach of many shoppers, potentially offering very strong value.
With classy exterior styling, a much-improved cabin and a surprisingly sizeable luggage compartment, the Renault Clio V represents a compelling option for those still in the market for a European-built supermini. Considering the majority of modern-day buyers demand automatic transmissions, it’s just a pity only a manual gearbox was available locally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Renault Clio V in South Africa
Q: Why was the Renault Clio V discontinued in South Africa?
A: While the 5th-generation Clio was officially launched in SA in February 2022, its lifecycle was cut short. Renault SA decided not to introduce the facelifted version or the subsequent Clio VI due to unfavourable currency exchange rates, which made the model’s pricing less competitive in the local market.
Q: What are the main pros and cons of buying a used Clio V?
A: The Clio V is praised for its much-improved cabin quality, striking exterior styling and a class-leading 391-litre boot. However, potential buyers should note that it was only available with a 5-speed manual gearbox in SA, had a relatively short 2-year/30 000 km service plan and features a slightly firm ride, particularly on models with 17-inch wheels.
Q: What engine and trim options were available for the local Clio V range?
A: All South African derivatives were powered by a 1.0-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine producing 74 kW and 160 Nm. The range consisted of three trim levels: the entry-level Life, the mid-tier Zen (the most common on the used market) and the flagship Intens which featured uprated tech and safety equipment.
5 automakers with the biggest sales declines in SA in 2025
While SA’s new-vehicle market saw strong growth in 2025, a few automakers suffered sales declines. Here’s which firms saw the biggest year-on-year percentage drops…
Proton suffered biggest percentage drop at 48.3%
Nissan saw largest decline in pure volume terms
Volvo, Honda and Mitsubishi also slid year on year
South Africa’s new-vehicle market put in a strong performance in 2025, with local sales increasing 15.7% compared to the prior year to ultimately hit an encouraging 596 818 units – the highest total since 2015. But, despite this overall growth, a few automakers suffered year-on-year sales declines.
So, which automakers shrunk most in a growing market? Well, we’ve tallied up the sales figures for the year and compared them to 2024’s numbers. That allowed us to identify the manufacturers that endured the biggest year-on-year percentage drops. Note that we’ve focused on automakers that play in the light-vehicle segments, omitting truck- and bus-only manufacturers from this exercise.
Before we dive in, a few more caveats. We’ve based our calculations on “manufacturer” totals reported to Naamsa in each month of 2025. So, keep in mind that in this reporting method, certain individual brands are grouped under broader manufacturer banners. For instance, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Jeep, Opel and Peugeot fall under Stellantis, which incidentally grew 22.8%, year on year. Other examples include Audi forming part of the Volkswagen Group (down 4.2%) and Lexus being part of Toyota (up 15.1%).
Also note not all manufacturers report sales figures to Naamsa, with the likes of BYD, GAC, Ineos and LDV keeping their sales private. Furthermore, we’ve opted to exclude Ferrari, considering this high-end brand’s comparatively low sales volumes. For the record, however, Scuderia SA – the official distributor of new Ferrari vehicles in South Africa – registered 53 units in 2025, down 18.5% year on year.
Proton (459 units sold) – down 48.3%
Proton sold just 459 units in Mzansi last year.
Based on Naamsa figures, the manufacturer that suffered the most significant year-on-year percentage drop in sales in 2025 was Proton South Africa. Distributed by the Combined Motor Holdings (CMH) Group, the Malaysian automaker’s local registrations slid 48.3% year on year to 459 units in 2025.
In May 2025, we reported that Proton’s future in SA looked uncertain, based on comments from CMH Group CEO Jebb McIntosh. Thereafter, Proton SA released a statement saying it was “not exiting the South African market”. Still, local sales tapered sharply late in 2025, with just 2 units sold in each of the year’s final 2 months. For the record, in global terms, Proton falls under Chinese automotive giant Geely, which has has just returned to SA…
Volvo Cars (903 units sold) – down 36.8%
Volvo Car SA’s total slipped below 1 000 units in 2025.
Having sold 1 428 units in 2024, Volvo Car South Africa’s total slipped into 3 figures last year. According to numbers reported to Naamsa, the Swedish manufacturer sold 903 units in Mzansi in 2025. That represents a 36.8% year-on-year decline.
The Gothenburg-based automaker – which also counts China’s Geely as its parent company – had its best month of 2025 in March, when it registered 151 units. Its weakest performance of the year came in August, with just 42 units sold across South Africa.
Nissan (15 085 units sold) – down 32.3%
In pure volume terms, Nissan suffered the largest decline in the local market in 2025.
Nissan South Africa suffered an appreciable 32.3% year-on-year decline in sales to end 2025 on 15 085 units. That performance saw the Japanese firm tumble out of the top 10, falling 5 places to settle in 12th overall. In pure volume terms, this was easily the largest decline in the market, with the company shedding a whopping 7 199 units, year on year.
Of course, some of that drop could be attributed to the axing of the Rosslyn-built NP200. Though production of this half-tonne bakkie ended in March 2024, as many as 6 544 units were sold that year, with the Japanese automaker simply unable to fill the resulting void in 2025. In addition, local sales of the Magnite slipped 14.1% (in the passenger-vehicle segment) year on year.
Honda (2 517 units sold) – down 13.6%
Honda’s local registrations dropped 13.6% year on year in 2025.
Honda Motor Southern Africa’s sales total dropped 13.6% year on year to 2 517 units in 2025. Part of that decline was down to the discontinuation of the Ballade and BR-V, with combined sales of these 2 models sliding from 530 units in 2024 to just 14 units in 2025.
Registrations of the Amaze also fell year on year (though this budget sedan went through a runout phase earlier in 2025, ahead of the local introduction of the 3rd-generation model), while the Civic, CR-V, Fit and HR-V all also lost sales compared to 2024. The Elevate, meanwhile, enjoyed a 121.9% year-on-year increase (to 1 136 units) to become Honda’s top seller in 2025.
Mitsubishi (1 942 units sold) – down 12.5%
In 2025, Mitsubishi sales in SA dropped 12.5% compared with the prior year.
Based on Naamsa figures, Mitsubishi Motors South Africa suffered a 12.5% year-on-year drop in sales in 2025. The Japanese company ended the year on 1 942 units, with its best month being June (when it sold 205 units) and its worst April (with only 93 registrations).
Mazda sales in SA fell 12.4% year on year in 2025.
While the 5 manufacturers above endured the largest year-on-year percentage drops in the local market in 2025, a few others also slipped back – albeit not quite as drastically. For instance, Mazda Southern Africa’s sales dipped 12.4% year on year to 2 652 units, seeing it just miss a spot on this list.
Porsche SA (down 8.8%, year on year, to 1 147 units) and Mercedes-Benz SA (down 4.3%, year on year, to 6 128 units) also seemingly shrunk in 2025, though we should keep in mind Naamsa provides only “estimated” sales figures for these 2 brands since they don’t currently report to the industry representative body.
VW Group Africa was the only automaker in the top 10 to suffer a year-on-year sales decline.
Meanwhile, Volkswagen Group Africa (down 4.2%, year on year, to 63 667 units) was the only automaker in the top 10 to shed sales in 2025. Finally, Jaguar Land Rover SA’s local registrations slipped 1.1% year on year to 2 793 units, a marginal drop considering Jaguar brand sales effectively ended early in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About SA Automaker Sales Declines in 2025
Q: Which automaker experienced the largest percentage drop in sales in 2025?
A: Proton South Africa recorded the most significant year-on-year percentage decline in 2025. The Malaysian brand’s local registrations plummeted 48.3%, falling from 888 units in 2024 to just 459 units in 2025.
Q: Why did Nissan suffer the largest volume loss in the South African market last year?
A: While Nissan saw a 32.3% percentage drop, it suffered the largest volume decline in the industry, shedding 7 199 units compared to 2024. This was primarily driven by the discontinuation of the locally built NP200 half-tonne bakkie, a former high-volume seller that left a significant void in Nissan’s light-commercial vehicle line-up.
Q: Were any top 10 automakers affected by sales downturns in 2025?
A: Yes, Volkswagen Group Africa was the only manufacturer in the top 10 to record a year-on-year sales decline. Despite the overall market growing by 15.7%, the VW Group’s local sales (including Audi) fell 4.2% to 63 667 units, resulting in its market share sliding from 12.9% to 10.7%.
