South Africans are heading to the pumps tonight with a heavy heart as a massive fuel price hike takes effect at midnight. This adjustment marks one of the most severe blows to the local economy in recent years.
If you are planning to fill up, here is everything you need to know about the fuel price changes for May 2026.
Why the fuel price is skyrocketing
The primary driver behind this month’s surge is the escalating 2026 Iran crisis. The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz – a critical maritime artery for 20% of global oil – has sent shockwaves through energy markets.
Oil prices: Brent crude has leapt from roughly $93.67 to over $101 per barrel during the review period.
The Rand: While the South African Rand remained relatively stable, averaging around R16.65 to the US Dollar, it provided no cushion against the massive spike in international petroleum product costs.
The slate levy: To recover a R14.2 billion deficit in the fuel account, a slate levy of 122.70 cents per litre has been implemented for May by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.
Government intervention: A small silver lining
Without intervention from National Treasury, the fuel price would have been even more catastrophic. The government has extended emergency relief measures:
A R3.00 per litre reduction in the general fuel levy for petrol.
A R3.93 per litre reduction for diesel (effectively bringing the diesel levy to zero).
Despite these measures, the net result is still a record-breaking increase due to the sheer scale of the global oil crisis.
Comparison: April 2026 vs May 2026
Last month, motorists were already struggling with petrol prices around R23.25 (inland). However, the May hike sees diesel breaching the R32 per litre mark for the first time, which will likely lead to rapid food price inflation and higher transport costs across the country.
Official fuel price changes (inland) – effective 6 May 2026
Fuel type
Change (increase)
New Price (inland)
New Price (coastal)
Petrol 93 unleaded
+ R3.27 / litre
R26.52
R25.73
Petrol 95 unleaded
+ R3.27 / litre
R26.63
R25.76
Diesel 0.05% (wholesale)
+ R6.19 / litre
R32.09
R31.22
Diesel 0.005% (wholesale)
+ R6.19 / litre
R32.30
R31.54
Illuminating paraffin
+ R4.22 / litre
R28.43
R27.38
LPG (per kg)
+ R5.07 – R5.78
R41.12
R37.87
Must-have accessories for the (outgoing) Toyota Hilux
Upgrades should add value to your bakkie, not void warranties. These official Toyota Hilux accessories do just that, enhancing future resale value.
The 9th-gen Toyota Hilux will be the most important vehicle introduced this year. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t great run-out deals and upgrade options (including official Hilux accessories) for the legendary 8th-gen model.
Toyota has, for decades, set the standards for manufacturing quality. That’s why the Hilux has remained South Africa’s best-selling vehicle for as long as most of us can remember.
But why would you want one of the very last Hilux units? Because these are possibly the best-built 8th-gen Hilux bakkies you can buy. The system and supply chain that creates these bakkies is mature, with all the quality standards at their highest level of development after years of feedback and improvement.
So, you want to spend the smart money and buy an 8th-gen Hilux, but make it the perfect bakkie for your needs? You’ll need to choose the best Hilux accessories that won’t void your warranty or affect your future resale value. They should add value to the real-world South African double-cab ownership experience. That’s why we’ve listed only official Toyota Hilux accessories.
Rubber floor mats
Rubber mats are under-appreciated; they ensure better future value for your Hilux.
Toyota has designed and built the Hilux to work hard for a living, but many of the double-cab models serve as family vehicles. Yet, kids can be as hard on a Hilux’s interior carpets and trim as the hardiest construction crews.
If you don’t want muddy trainers and sports shoes imprinting dirt and prematurely wearing out the carpet fabric of your Hilux, there’s a solution: the official Toyota rubber floor mats. They are shaped and cut to fit perfectly in the Hilux’s floor sections without snagging pedals.
A small investment that lasts virtually forever, these rubber floor mats add significant value over time. They might just be the most under-appreciated Hilux accessories. Because when you do eventually sell or trade-in your Hilux, and its carpets still look like new, you’ll get a much better price.
Hood assist
When your Hilux is being a recovery vehicle, these make life easier.
Hilux owners rarely have to open their bakkies’ bonnets. Toyota’s most popular model is renowned for its mechanical durability, especially its engines.
But Hilux bakkies are often involved in recovery or assisting others. And that means some Hilux owners, like farmers, wildlife managers and technical service crews, have to open their bakkie bonnets often to help other drivers in need. Why? Jump-starting assistance, for example. Or operating an air compressor to adjust air pressure if a vehicle is stuck in sand, when your Hilux needs to air down for more traction, or to help recover another vehicle.
The official Hilux hood assist (yes, Toyota South Africa lists it as ‘hood assist’ instead of ‘bonnet assist’), is the solution. It’s features two gas-charged struts that make it easier to lift the Hilux’s heavy steel bonnet and close it gently, without violently dropping it onto the securing latches.
Headlamp protector
Stone-chip damage is expensive. These prevent that from happening.
South African bakkie drivers know the anxiety of stone-chip damage. Whether it’s caused by roadworks or following in convoy on a long dirt road in the Karoo, headlamp cracking due to stones happens.
The best way to avoid an expensive headlamp replacement is to get an official Hilux headlamp protector. Sure, it looks a bit weird, but it will save you a lot of money, especially if you own a Hilux and do a lot of dirt-road driving.
Snorkel
The snorkel is one of the most misunderstood bakkie accessories in the market but a useful upgrade.
They serve several purposes. The most obvious is allowing confident water fording and river crossing abilities. With the snorkel’s huge air-intake clearance, even if you are going beyond the official wading limits of a Hilux, you know airflow to the engine is going to be fine without the risk of stalling and your Hilux becoming a river barge.
The other big wins with snorkels are dirt-road driving and dune driving in extreme heat. The snorkel allows your Hilux engine to draw intake air from a less dusty zone than the front grille, which is directly in the dust cloud when following other vehicles on dirt roads.
In extremely hot dune-driving conditions, surface sand temperatures generate significant secondary radiation. Having a snorkel drawing slightly cooler ambient air further away from the sand’s surface is useful.
Cattle rails
The absolute must-have Hilux accessory for farmers’ double cabs.
A wraparound cattle rail setup transforms your Hilux bakkie’s ability to carry high-volume loads. But why cattle rails instead of a canopy? Well, the latter has a roof limiting vertical loading height.
Cattle rails were developed for the farming community because animals can easily leap off an open load bed. Most farm animals are also too tall to fit under a canopy’s roof.
On a Hilux, cattle rails prevent animals from falling out or disembarking during transit. Or stacked feed bales from tumbling over the load bed sides when driving on a rugged dirt road or rounding those tight 90-degree corners between grazing camps that are a feature of a commercial farm’s layout.
Many of the most ardent Hilux owners are farmers and for them, a cattle rail on a leisure-spec double cab is not a statement. It’s a need. Cattle rails might increase wind noise and diesel consumption (a little), but they are very useful to rural Hilux owners.
We have SA pricing for the revised Ford Ranger line-up, which gains a fresh 2.3T petrol engine, more 3.0TD V6 variants and a new Sport grade…
2.0 BiT engine dropped from local range
2.0 SiT motor upgraded (and gains 10AT)
New 2.3T petrol motor used in 3 variants
Fresh “Sport” trim slots in below Wildtrak
Super Cab line-up grows to 7 derivatives
Double Cab portfolio shrinks to 13 variants
Late last year, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa announced it planned to make a raft of changes to its Ranger bakkie line-up, including the “phasing out” of the 154 kW 2.0 BiT turbodiesel engine and the introduction of a new turbocharged 2.3-litre petrol motor. Now, ahead of the local launch – which is happening this week – Cars.co.za has uncovered pricing for the rejigged portfolio.
In addition to the abovementioned changes to the Ranger powertrain stable, the Blue Oval brand has expanded the availability of the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel unit from the outgoing line-up’s 2 derivatives to as many as 6 variants. Furthermore, the 2.0 SiT turbodiesel unit – while still generating 125 kW and 405 Nm – has switched from a wet timing belt to a chain, with automatic-equipped versions additionally upgrading from a 6-speed transmission to a 10-speed item.
Single Cab variants feature updated 2.0 SiT
The single-cab range appears largely unchanged, bar the powertrain tweaks.
Let’s start with the single-cab derivatives. As before, the Dearborn-based brand’s local division offers a trio of workhorse variants, though each features the updated version of the 2.0 SiT turbodiesel motor. Ford has opted not to use this opportunity to introduce a more affordable single cab, instead sticking with the XL grade as the entry point.
According to our information, the revised Ranger 2.0 SiT Single Cab XL 10AT 4×2 kicks off the line-up at R590 000 (up R15 000), while the Ranger 2.0 SiT Single Cab XL 6MT 4×4 comes in at R635 200 (an increase of R6 700). Finally, the Ranger 2.0 SiT Single Cab XL 10AT 4×4 is priced at R666 000, representing an increase of R17 000.
Ford SA expands Ranger Super Cab line-up
The Super Cab line-up grows to 7 derivatives (outgoing XL derivative pictured).
Ford has expanded its Super Cab range, growing this part of the line-up from 5 to 7 derivatives. The Ranger 2.0 SiT Super Cab XL 10AT 4×2 (R599 500; up R13 000), Ranger 2.0 SiT Super Cab XLT 10AT 4×2 (R655 000; up R32 000) and Ranger 2.0 SiT Super Cab XL 10AT 4×4 (R675 500; up R41 000) carry over with the updated engine and transmission.
Meanwhile, the Ranger 2.0 SiT Super Cab XLT 10AT 4×4 (R731 000) arrives as a new derivative, effectively replacing the outgoing 2.0 BiT version. There’s also the new Ranger 2.3T Super Cab Sport 10AT 4×2, which is priced at R735 000 and powered by Ford’s 222 kW/452 Nm 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol motor (already in use in the related VW Amarok).
This new Sport grade is furthermore available in conjunction with Ford’s 6-cylinder oil-burning engine, with the Ranger 3.0TD V6 Super Cab Sport 10AT 4×4 priced at R825 000. Finally, the Ranger 3.0TD V6 Super Cab Wildtrak 10AT 4×4 (replacing the previous 2.0 BiT version) tops the extended-cab portfolio at R865 000. As before, all Super Cab derivatives ship standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Double Cab line-up trimmed to 13 derivatives
The Aussie-spec Ranger double cab in XLT guise.
What about the double-cab range? Well, Ford has trimmed this part of the Ranger portfolio from 15 to 13 variants, though it’s worth keeping in mind the Wildtrak X is no longer offered as a standalone model but instead available as an “option pack” on the 3.0TD V6 Wildtrak 4×4.
The Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XL 6MT 4×2 remains the entry point to double-cab ownership at Ford, with its price unchanged at R621 000. The Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XL 10AT 4×2 comes in at R651 500 (up R6 000), while the Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XL 6MT 4×4 is unchanged at R704 000 and the Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XL 10AT 4×4 some R4 500 more at R735 000.
Australian-spec Wildtrak variant shown in new Ignite Orange paint.
The upgraded single-turbo engine also again powers the XLT double-cab derivatives, with the Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XLT 10AT 4×2 kicking off at R699 500 (up R17 000) and the Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XLT 10AT 4×4 at R788 500 (an increase of R21 500).
Meanwhile, the Dearborn-based firm’s local arm has added a pair of turbopetrol derivatives to the mix in the form of the Ranger 2.3T Double Cab Sport 10AT 4×2 (priced from R839 600) and the Ranger 2.3T Double Cab Wildtrak 10AT 4×2 (available from R899 000). Like the Super Cab with this 222 kW motor, only the rear-wheel-drive configuration is available.
The Tremor upgrades to the 3.0TD powerplant.
The V6 turbodiesel engine is now offered in the Ranger 3.0TD V6 Double Cab Sport 10AT 4×4 (R995 000) and Ranger 3.0TD V6 Double Cab Tremor 10AT 4×4 (R1 039 000), with the latter switching from the previous version’s bi-turbo motor. The Ranger 3.0TD V6 Double Cab Wildtrak 10AT 4×4 is interestingly R18 000 less expensive than before at R1 070 000, while the Ranger 3.0TD V6 Double Cab Platinum 10AT 4×4 is R28 500 pricier at R1 179 500.
Finally, the 292 kW/583 Nm flagship Ranger Raptor – the only derivative in the range that is not built in South Africa but instead imported from Thailand – carries over seemingly without any mechanical changes. However, the halo derivative’s price has increased some R28 000 to R1 299 000. Interestingly, there’s still no sign of the Super Duty nor the (Silverton-built) Ranger PHEV for Mzansi.
What other changes have been made to Ranger?
Interior of an SA-built Euro-spec Wildtrak PHEV hints at possible cabin changes for the local market.
While full specification details of the updated range remain under wraps for now, Ford Motor Company of SA earlier promised “there will [also] be selected specification and feature enhancements across the Ranger line-up that provide even greater value, connectivity, practicality and safety”.
Separately, the Blue Oval brand’s Australian arm confirmed a “refreshed design treatment” for the bakkie, with chrome-effect trim set to be replaced by gloss- and matte-black finishes on certain variants. Ford’s division Down Under said this new “darkened look” would apply to both exterior and interior elements, including “updated wheel designs”. We can expect changes to the range of available exterior paint colours, too.
What does the updated Ford Ranger (2026) cost in SA?
SINGLE-CAB DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Ranger 2.0 SiT Single Cab XL 10AT 4×2
R590 000 (up R15 000)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Single Cab XL 6MT 4×4
R635 200 (up R6 700)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Single Cab XL 10AT 4×4
R666 000 (up R17 000)
SUPER-CAB DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Ranger 2.0 SiT Super Cab XL 10AT 4×2
R599 500 (up R13 000)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Super Cab XLT 10AT 4×2
R655 000 (up R32 000)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Super Cab XL 10AT 4×4
R675 500 (up R41 000)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Super Cab XLT 10AT 4×4
R731 000 (new derivative)
Ranger 2.3T Super Cab Sport 10AT 4×2
R735 000 (new derivative)
Ranger 3.0TD V6 Super Cab Sport 10AT 4×4
R825 000 (new derivative)
Ranger 3.0TD V6 Super Cab Wildtrak 10AT 4×4
R865 000 (new derivative)
DOUBLE-CAB DERIVATIVE
PRICE
Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XL 6MT 4×2
R621 000 (unchanged)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XL 10AT 4×2
R651 500 (up R6 000)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XLT 10AT 4×2
R699 500 (up R17 000)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XL 6MT 4×4
R704 000 (unchanged)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XL 10AT 4×4
R735 000 (up R4 500)
Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XLT 10AT 4×4
R788 500 (up R21 500)
Ranger 2.3T Double Cab Sport 10AT 4×2
R839 600 (new derivative)
Ranger 2.3T Double Cab Wildtrak 10AT 4×2
R899 000 (new derivative)
Ranger 3.0TD V6 Double Cab Sport 10AT 4×4
R995 000 (new derivative)
Ranger 3.0TD V6 Double Cab Tremor 10AT 4×4
R1 039 000 (new derivative)
Ranger 3.0TD V6 Double Cab Wildtrak 10AT 4×4
R1 070 000 (down R18 000)
Ranger 3.0TD V6 Double Cab Platinum 10AT 4×4
R1 179 500 (up R28 500)
Ranger 3.0T V6 Double Cab Ranger Raptor 10 AT 4×4
R1 299 000 (up R28 000)
From what we understand, the prices above include Ford’s 4-year/120 000 km warranty as well as a 6-year/90 000 km service plan (which the buyer can optionally exclude).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Revised Ford Ranger (2026)
Q: What is the significance of the “wet timing belt to chain” change for the 2.0 SiT?
A: This is potentially a major reliability upgrade. The previous “wet belt” system (where the rubber belt runs in engine oil) required specialised maintenance and had durability concerns over long periods. Moving to a traditional timing chain could significantly improve long-term engine longevity and reduce the risk of catastrophic engine failure due to belt degradation.
Q: How does the new “Sport” grade fit into the existing line-up?
A: The Sport grade is a new “lifestyle” sweet spot that slots in above the XLT but below the Wildtrak. It is seemingly designed for buyers who want a darkened, aggressive look (including blacked-out exterior trim and unique wheels) and premium features without the full price tag of a Wildtrak or Platinum model.
Q: Why is the 2.0 Bi-Turbo being phased out in South Africa?
A: The decision to phase out the 154 kW Bi-Turbo engine appears to be part of a global strategy to simplify the powertrain line-up. It is effectively being replaced by the more powerful 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine (222 kW) and an expanded 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel (184 kW) range, offering customers a clearer choice between high-performance petrol or heavy-duty diesel torque.
Suzuki has been on a relentless product offensive in South Africa, but its latest arrival might be its most significant yet. The Suzuki Across has officially landed, taking over the mantle as the brand’s flagship model.
We like: Across has excellent fuel efficiency and impressive range; high level of standard tech including digital cockpit; refined and quiet cabin with great build quality; strong value proposition.
We don’t like: Naturally aspirated engine lacks punch; omission of dual-zone climate control in a flagship model; boot space is smaller than some competitors; steering can feel vague.
While international markets know the Across as a rebadged Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid, the South African version is a bespoke offering imported from India, designed to offer a premium SUV experience at a price point that remains accessible.
Positioned just above the Grand Vitara, the Across aims to capture buyers who want the legendary Suzuki reliability and efficiency but with a more sophisticated, tech-heavy edge.
How the Suzuki Across fares in terms of…
Design & Packaging
Under the skin, the Across shares its platform with the Grand Vitara, but befitting its higher price, the latter offers a more refined look.
The Across shares its Global C platform with the Grand Vitara, but it differentiates itself with a more refined, upmarket look. The front end is cleaner, moving away from large, aggressive grilles in favour of a sleek, modern lighting signature. LED projector headlamps and daytime running lights are standard across the range, giving it a premium road presence.
The rear design feels fresh for Suzuki, with an LED light strip running the width of the tailgate.
Down the sides, the Across features sharp body contours and broad fenders, while the rear is perhaps its most attractive angle. A flattened design featuring a grand LED light strip gives it a modern, upmarket feel that distinguishes it from its smaller siblings.
With a generous ground clearance of 210 mm, the Across has that somewhat rugged, rough-road SUV capability South Africans expect.
All models feature this digital setup – a clear 10.25-inch cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen setup. It’s refreshing in an age of laptop-sized screens dominating dashboards.
Step inside and it is immediately clear why the Across is considered Suzuki’s Auto South Africa’s new flagship. The interior is airy and well-laid-out, with a major focus on digitisation. Every model in the range ships with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The interface is clean and snappy, and features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
A 360-degree camera system is included in the price.
While the cabin is modern, Suzuki has wisely retained physical controls for the climate control and a rotary knob for volume, ensuring ease of use while driving.
The top-spec GLX model steps things up further with synthetic leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a high-end 8-speaker Harman Infinity sound system. It is a space that feels significantly more premium than the price tag might suggest.
Performance & Efficiency
Hybrid mostly in name… The system is very mild.
Under the bonnet, the Across utilises Suzuki’s bulletproof K15C 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine, paired with a 12V mild-hybrid system. This setup is not about blistering performance (the Across happens to be the 2nd slowest vehicle we’ve tested so far this year), but rather supreme efficiency and smoothness.
Performance might not be notably different due to the hybrid system, but consumption is very impressive.
The integrated starter generator (ISG) assists the engine during acceleration and smooths out the stop-start system, making it an ideal companion for urban commuting. With a claimed fuel consumption of just 5.3 L/100 km, it offers a theoretical range of over 900 km from its (smaller-than-usual) 45-litre tank.
Ride, Handling & Comforterformance & Efficiency
On-road, the Across prioritises comfort and refinement. NVH levels are impressive, with very little road or wind noise entering the cabin.
The steering, meanwhile, is light and effortless, making tight city manoeuvres simple, while the suspension is tuned to soak up the typical imperfections of South African roads.
Verdict
The Across offers few surprises, but it doesn’t need to. It’s a solid, refined and dependable SUV from a brand that specialises in this sort of thing.
The Suzuki Across enters a fiercely competitive segment, but it does so with a very specific set of skills. It offers a massive amount of standard equipment, a highly efficient powertrain, and the peace of mind that comes with the Suzuki badge. It may not be the fastest SUV in its class, but as a total package for the fuel-conscious family, it makes a very strong case for itself as the new value benchmark in the flagship crossover market.
P-Series up to 4th! SA’s best-selling bakkies in April 2026
In April 2026, the GWM P-Series grabbed 4th place on the list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies, its highest ranking yet. Here are all the details…
Ford Ranger takes back 2nd place
Sales of Isuzu D-Max plummet 65.3%
P-Series grabs 4th ahead of Pik Up
Land Cruiser 79 climbs to 6th spot
Landtrek and Shark crack 3 figures
In April 2026, South Africa’s total new-vehicle market improved 13.0% year on year to 47 979 units, with the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) segment registering its 14th consecutive month of year-on-year growth, gaining 9.7% to end on 10 966 units. So, did anything change on the list of SA’s best- and worst-selling bakkies?
Well, before we dive into the figures, we should point out that though South Africa’s LCV space experienced a year-on-year increase in registrations, sales in this sector actually dropped 29.5% month on month (compared to the 15 557 units sold in March 2026, that is).
The outgoing Hilux remained firmly on top in April.
Right, let’s jump in. After breaching the 4 000-unit barrier in March, the Toyota Hilux settled for a total of 2 955 units in April, down 28.2% month on month. Still, the Prospecton-built stalwart was again easily Mzansi’s top-selling bakkie. For the record, the 9th-generation model looks likely to launch late in June.
After having to settle for 3rd position in March, the Ford Ranger – which recently underwent a line-up revision locally – grabbed back 2nd place in April. In the end, sales of the Silverton-made model (including the Thai-built Raptor) dropped 2.9% month on month to 2 013 units.
The revised Ranger grabbed back 2nd place last month.
That saw the Isuzu D-Max slip back to 3rd place in April 2026. Local registrations of the Struandale-built contender plummeted 65.3% month on month to 1 045 units. It’s worth keeping in mind Isuzu will very soon switch to the facelifted D-Max, which may have impacted local sales in April.
After posting its highest sales figure yet in March 2026, local registrations of the GWM P-Series (including both the P300 and P500) dropped 25.1% month on month to 588 units. Still, that figure was enough to see the Chinese contender reach a new high of 4th place, ranking as the market’s top-selling imported bakkie.
Interestingly, the Mahindra Pik Up – which has made 4th position very much its own since the demise of the Nissan NP200 – fell to an unfamiliar 5th place in April 2026, with local registrations of the KwaZulu-Natal-assembled bakkie tumbling 45.7% month on month to 563 units.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 (451 units, up 21.6% month on month) climbed 2 places to 6th, with the SA-built Volkswagen Amarok (399 units, down 14.4% month on month) and Nissan Navara (315 units, down 17.1% month on month) each falling a ranking, to 7th and 8th, respectively. With Chery SA taking over Nissan’s Rosslyn plant, local production of the Navara is due to end soon, after which the bakkie will be imported from Thailand.
The evergreen Land Cruiser 79 ranked 6th in April.
As has been the case for some time now, a pair of Chinese models closed out the top 10. The JAC T-Series (270 units, up 1.5% month on month) held steady in 9th position, while the Foton Tunland (205 units, down 15.3% month on month) kept hold of 10th.
Bakkies outside the top 10 in April 2026
The Shark 6 effectively ended April in 12th position.
So, which bakkies didn’t rank in the top 10 in April 2026? Well, the Peugeot Landtrek (138 units) took 11th place, finishing ahead of both the BYD Shark 6 (108 units) and the Mahindra Bolero (72 units) last month.
Next came the Mitsubishi Triton on 41 units, followed by the freshly launchedKia Tasman with 31 units and the Changan Hunter with 24 units. The since-discontinuedGWM Steed (2 units) ranked 17th, while the Jeep Gladiator took the final place, with just a single unit registered.
4 Chinese brands in top 10! SA’s new-vehicle sales in April 2026
In April 2026, South Africa’s new-vehicle market recorded its 19th straight month of year-on-year growth. And, for the first time ever, as many as 4 Chinese automakers made the top 10…
New-vehicle sales up 13% year-on-year in April
South Africa’s highest April sales total since 2013
Isuzu tumbles from top 10 as sales sink 62.5%
Jetour climbs to 8th position as T2 sales surge
Omoda & Jaecoo breaks into top 10 for first time
In April 2026, sales in South Africa’s new-vehicle market increased 13.0% year on year to 47 979 units, representing not only the local industry’s 19th consecutive month of year-on-year growth but also its best April figures since 2013. That said, last month was the first time in 2026 that total sales dipped below the 50 000-unit mark, falling 17.4% compared to March 2026.
Furthermore, new-vehicle exports from South Africa dropped 4.0% year on year to 30 939 units, with industry-representative body Naamsa pointing to the impact of “ongoing geopolitical developments” on key destination markets.
With regard to local sales, Naamsa said an estimated 91.1% of April 2026’s total reported domestic figure of 47 979 units represented sales via the dealership channel, while 5.1% were sales to the new-vehicle rental industry, 2.2% to industry corporate fleets and 1.6% to government.
South Africa’s new passenger-vehicle market ended the month on 34 414 units (with rental sales accounting for 5.7% of that number), up 14.3% compared to the same month last year. Meanwhile, local sales of new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) came in at 10 966 units, up some 9.7% year on year.
Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), said April was “an amazing show of robustness by local automotive retailers in a month featuring a host of public and school holidays, together with the turmoil caused by the Middle East conflict hanging over the global economy”.
“It seemed dealers had to work harder to close deals, but many made good use of the holiday opportunities to promote their vehicles in the many shopping malls we have in South Africa. We also think there is a general feeling out there that new-vehicle prices will increase significantly as the Middle East conflict continues to pressure vehicle and component manufacturers in terms of pricing,” Cohen added.
Meanwhile, Thanda Sithole, Senior Economist at WesBank, described the local market’s April 2026 sales performance as “an encouraging result” despite the “changing economic backdrop”.
“The growth was also broad-based, with passenger cars, light-commercial vehicles and the heavier segments all posting gains. This suggests the recovery has some depth, although affordability remains a key constraint for many consumers,” Sithole added.
New-vehicle sales summary for April 2026
Aggregate new-vehicle sales of 47 979 units increased by 13.0% (5 512 units) compared to April 2025.
New passenger-vehicle sales of 34 414 units increased by 14.3% (4 301 units) compared to April 2025.
New light-commercial vehicle sales of 10 966 units increased by 9.7% (973 units) compared to April 2025.
Export sales of 30 939 units decreased by 4.0% (1 290 units) compared to April 2025.
10 best-selling automakers in SA in April 2026
Jetour SA grabbed 8th place on the back of strong T2 sales.
Though April 2026 saw some interesting movement on the list of South Africa’s 10 best-selling automakers, Toyota SA Motors (including Lexus and Hino sales) still dominated – even if its market share slipped to 21.2%. In the end, the Japanese firm registered 10 188 units last month, down 23.5% compared to March.
After having to settle for 3rd in the prior month, Suzuki Auto SA grabbed back 2nd place in April, with 5 363 units sold (up 6.3% month on month, making it the only top 5 brand to grow compared to March). That saw Volkswagen Group Africa (including VW brand and Audi sales) drop back to 3rd position, with local registrations sliding 13.6% month on month to 4 814 units.
While Isuzu Motors SA soared to 4th place in March 2026, the Japanese brand surprisingly dropped clear out of the top 10 in April. That saw Hyundai Automotive SA (2 857 units, down 12.3% month on month) return to 4th place, with Ford Motor Company of SA (2 702 units, down 4.5% month on month) reclaiming 5th.
Meanwhile, GWM SA gained a ranking to 6th, despite sales falling 10.5% month on month to 2 485 units in April 2026. Fellow Chinese company Chery SA likewise improved a place to 7th, with local registrations increasing 3.0% month on month to 2 462 units.
Jetour SA – which falls under the Chery Group umbrella globally but seemingly operates independently in Mzansi – climbed to a new high of 8th position in April 2026, posting its best monthly figure yet. The Chinese brand sold 1 804 units last month (with the T2 leading the charge), 2.0% up on its March showing.
Chery subsidiary Omoda & Jaecoo SA finally broke into South Africa’s top 10, grabbing 9th place with 1 383 units registered (down 3.5% month on month). So, for the first time ever, 4 Chinese automakers made the list of Mzansi’s 10 best-selling automakers in a single month.
Finally, BMW Group Africa (with a Naamsa-estimated 1 366 units, including the Mini brand; down 14.0% month on month) returned to the table to grab 10th place. But what about the automakers that missed out on the top 10 in April 2026?
Well, as mentioned above, Isuzu Motors SA dropped from 4th in March all the way down to 11th in April, with local sales plummeting 62.5% month on month to 1 319 units. We can only speculate this has something to do with the imminent switch to the facelifted D-Max.
Meanwhile, Kia SA (1 242 units) slipped a ranking to 12th, while Renault SA (1 216 units) climbed 2 spots to 13th. Interestingly, Mahindra SA (1 098 units) fell from 9th in the prior month to 14th in April, while Nissan SA (875 units) dropped 2 rankings to 15th.
1. Toyota – 10 188 units
2. Suzuki – 5 363 units
3. Volkswagen Group – 4 814 units
4. Hyundai – 2 857 units
5. Ford – 2 702 units
6. GWM – 2 485 units
7. Chery – 2 462 units
8. Jetour – 1 804 units
9. Omoda & Jaecoo – 1 383 units
10. BMW Group – 1 366 units
SA’s new-vehicle sales outlook for rest of 2026
So, what’s next for South Africa’s new-vehicle market? Well, Naamsa says though the local market’s April performance “largely reflects momentum built over preceding months”, these supportive factors are “now being confronted by headwinds in the macro-environment, characterised by elevated energy prices, looming rising inflation expectations and a reversal in the interest-rate outlook”.
Meanwhile, Thembinkosi Pantsi, National Vice Chairperson of NADA, adds that various “global pressures” are beginning to impact the financing and purchasing decisions of local motorists, suggesting that “many potential buyers” used April to “test the waters in terms of what they qualify for” before deciding to “delay the actual purchase”.
“While some buyers are pausing to assess their financial positions, those who are proceeding with purchases are changing their target segments,” Pantsi explains, adding that “we have seen consumers showing genuine interest in lower-priced vehicles, including demo models of Asian brands, as well as hybrid cars”, along with used models from “good quality, traditional brands”.
WesBank’s Sithole, meanwhile, stresses that while “the April result shows that the market still has momentum”, the “key question now is how durable that momentum will be as fuel, inflation and interest-rate pressures filter through household budgets and business confidence”.
5 most expensive naturally aspirated cars in SA (2026)
There are still a few high-end vehicles that employ naturally aspirated engines rather than turbocharged motors. These are the 5 most expensive on SA’s new-car market…
In an automotive landscape dominated by the forced-induction whistle of turbochargers (and, in far smaller volumes here in South Africa, the silent efficiency of electric motors), the naturally aspirated engine has become a rare sight in high-end cars. So, which are most expensive atmospheric vehicles currently available on the local new-car market?
Well, we’ve combed through Mzansi’s passenger-vehicle segment and picked out the 5 priciest vehicles that employ free-breathing petrol engines. Keep in mind that we’ve included all naturally aspirated motors here, even those mated to a hybrid system (as is the case with one of the models below). Note all pricing is correct in May 2026.
5. Porsche 911 GT3 S/C – from R6 138 000
The rear-wheel-drive 911 GT3 from Porsche takes 5th place on this list, specifically in S/C form (the hard-top derivatives are priced from R4 722 000). Equipped with a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-6 engine, all GT3-badged versions of the German firm’s quintessential 911 range generate peak outputs of 375 kW and 450 Nm. The Zuffenhausen-based brand offers this model (which is also available in the more discreet “Touring” specification) with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
0-100 kph time (claimed): 3.4 seconds (auto)/3.9 seconds (manual)
4. Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible 3LZ – from R7 400 000
Distributed locally by CVH Auto Group, the factory-built right-hand-drive Chevrolet Corvette Z06 3LZ is available in both Coupé (R7 300 000) and Convertible (R7 400 000) form. In each case, power comes from the American brand’s atmospheric 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine, which here delivers 475 kW and 595 Nm to the rear axle through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.
0-100 kph time (claimed): 3.0 seconds (for both body styles)
Arriving as the successor to the 812 Superfast, Ferrari’s 12Cilindri is offered locally in both Coupé (R10 495 000) and Spider (R11 495 000) guise. These derivatives each employ the Prancing Horse brand’s naturally aspirated, front-mid-mounted 6.5-litre V12 engine, which revs all the way to 9 500 rpm and delivers 610 kW and 678 Nm to the rear wheels via an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.
0-100 kph time (claimed): 2.9 seconds (Coupé)/3.0 seconds (Spider)
Thought the 12Cilindri was the Maranello-based firm’s priciest naturally aspirated model in SA? Think again. The (don’t-call-it-an-SUV) Purosangue takes that title, priced from a heady R11 795 000. This 5-door Ferrari features a free-breathing, front-mid-mounted 6.5-litre V12 engine, which in this application sends 533 kW and 716 Nm to all 4 corners though an 8-speed dual-clutch cog-swapper.
The priciest naturally aspirated vehicle on the local market right now is Lamborghini’s Revuelto – but there’s a bit of a twist to this one. Though it employs the Italian brand’s atmospheric 6.5-litre V12, it also features a trio of electric motors (1 up front and 2 at the rear) and a 3.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The result is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain with total system power coming in as high as 747 kW (Lamborghini doesn’t list a combined torque figure).
Q: Which vehicle is currently the most expensive naturally aspirated model in South Africa?
A: The Lamborghini Revuelto is the priciest naturally aspirated vehicle on the local market as of May 2026, with a starting price of R12 800 000. While it features a 6.5-litre V12, it is technically a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) utilising 3 electric motors to reach a total output of 747 kW.
Q: What is the most expensive non-hybrid, naturally aspirated car available?
A: The Ferrari Purosangue (priced from R11 795 000) and the Ferrari 12Cilindri Spider (priced from R11 495 000) are the most expensive vehicles on the list that rely solely on a free-breathing 6.5-litre V12 engine without electric assistance.
Q: Are there any naturally aspirated cars on this list available with a manual transmission?
A: Yes. The Porsche 911 GT3 (specifically the S/C and Touring variants) is available with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. It is the only vehicle in the top 5 most expensive naturally aspirated cars to offer a manual high-performance configuration.
Which model is leading SA’s double-cab bakkie sales race after Q1 2026? Here’s a look at the double-, extended- and single-cab figures for the year’s opening quarter…
Ranger leads double-cab sales race in Q1 2026
Hilux dominates single- and extended-cab sales
Mahindra Pik Up grabs 3rd on single-cab charts
You’ve likely already perused our list of South Africa’s best-selling bakkies in Q1 2026. But how does the picture change when we break down the sales figures by body style? Well, let’s take a closer look at the numbers and reveal the most popular single-, extended- and double-cab bakkies for the opening quarter of the year.
Based on figures kindly supplied by the folks over at Lightstone Auto, we know the Ford Ranger is leading the race for the title of Mzansi’s most popular double cab (a crown it secured for the 3rd straight year in 2025), with 5 140 units sold in Q1 2026. According to our maths, that translates to 82.4% of this model’s overall tally for this reporting period.
As a reminder, the Blue Oval brand recently revised its Ranger line-up, dropping the 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel engine and adding a turbocharged petrol motor, more turbodiesel V6 variants and a new Sport grade. Interestingly, in the overall race – that is, including all 3 body styles – the Silverton-built Ranger finds itself down in 3rd place.
DOUBLE-CAB BAKKIE
Q1 2026 REGISTRATIONS
1.
Ford Ranger Double Cab
5 140 units
2.
Toyota Hilux Double Cab
4 109 units
3.
Isuzu D-Max Double Cab
2 957 units
All other double cabs
6 612 units
*Table collated by Cars.co.za based on Lightstone Auto data
But back to the dual-cab sales charts. After Q1 2026, the Toyota Hilux – which is due to move into its 9th generation in June this year – ranks 2nd on the double-cab leaderboard, with 4 109 units registered. The latter figure represents 41.3% of the Prospecton-built stalwart’s overall total.
That means the Isuzu D-Max – which is scheduled to finally receive its local facelift in June this year – grabs the final spot on the double-cab podium for Q1 2026, with 2 957 units registered. Our arithmetic suggests that’s 47.4% of the Struandale-built nameplate’s overall figure.
Lightstone Auto’s dataset furthermore shows that all other 1-tonne double-cab bakkie derivatives – that is, excluding the aforementioned Ranger, Hilux and D-Max (and indeed models from any brands that don’t report sales figures to Naamsa) – collectively managed 6 612 units in the opening quarter of 2026.
Top-selling single- and extended-cab bakkies in Q1 2026
What about the single-cab space? Well, the Toyota Hilux remains SA’s best-selling single cab in Q1 2026, with 4 333 units (or 43.5% of its total) registered. The Isuzu D-Max single cab ranks 2nd with 2 813 units (or 44.7% of its tally).
As it did in 2025, the 2-door version of the KwaZulu-Natal-assembled Mahindra Pik Up completed the single-cab podium in the opening quarter of 2026, with 2 193 units registered (a whopping 78.5% of this model’s total). For the record, the Ranger single cab finished the 3-month reporting period on just 328 units.
SINGLE-CAB BAKKIE
Q1 2026 REGISTRATIONS
1.
Toyota Hilux Single Cab
4 333 units
2.
Isuzu D-Max Single Cab
2 813 units
3.
Mahindra Pik Up Single Cab
2 193 units
All other single cabs
4 151 units
*Table collated by Cars.co.za based on Lightstone Auto data
The Toyota Hilux leads the extended-cab race in Q1 2026, too, with 1 361 units sold. The Ford Ranger ranks 2nd with 768 units, followed by the Isuzu D-Max on 520 units. Of course, these are the only 3 bakkies offered in the so-called “cab-and-a-half” body style in South Africa.
EXTENDED-CAB BAKKIE
Q1 2026 REGISTRATIONS
1.
Toyota Hilux Xtra Cab
1 361 units
2.
Ford Ranger Super Cab
768 units
3.
Isuzu D-Max Extended Cab
520 units
*Table collated by Cars.co.za based on Lightstone Auto data
As a reminder, the Hilux (9 955 units; up 22.0% year on year) leads the overall bakkie sales race after the first quarter of 2026, with the D-Max (6 290 units; up 12.6% year on year) ranking 2nd, marginally ahead of the 3rd-placed Ranger (6 236 units; up 0.5% year on year).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About SA Bakkie Sales
Q: Which model is leading South Africa’s double-cab bakkie sales race in 2026?
A: As of the end of Q1 2026, the Ford Ranger is the top-selling double-cab bakkie in South Africa with 5 140 units registered. This figure represents approximately 82.4% of the Ranger’s total sales volume for the first quarter.
Q: Who are the market leaders for single-cab and extended-cab bakkies?
A: The Toyota Hilux remains the dominant force in both the single-cab segment (4,333 units) and the extended-cab segment (1 361 units). The Isuzu D-Max ranks second in both categories, while the Mahindra Pik Up holds the third-place podium spot for single cabs.
Q: What new model updates are expected for the top-selling bakkies this year?
A: June 2026 is set to be a major month for the local industry, with the Toyota Hilux scheduled to transition to its 9th-generation model and the Isuzu D-Max slated to receive a local facelift.
Recall, or simply an update? How software-defined cars are changing the industry
Why have so many cars been recalled in South Africa recently? Even Toyota, the brand known for durability and build quality, has suffered this fate…
There’s no denying the statistical reality: there are more car recalls now than in the early 2000s. Are cars becoming less reliable? Is build quality deteriorating? Or are we potentially misunderstanding the difference between mechanical or structural recalls, and simple software upgrades?
When your smartphone updates, it’s mostly seamless. Continuous updates build confidence between users and brands, knowing that their devices are ‘renewed’. But doesn’t the same thing apply to cars? Does that explain why it feels like there are many more recalls now than in the past? Is it a simple case of updating electronic architecture?
More electronics mean regular updates
The infotainment in your new Swift would shame an S-Class from the early 2010s.
Cars have more advanced electronics and sensors than ever before. An entry-level hatchback like a Hyundai i10 or Suzuki Swift has a touchscreen infotainment system that is more advanced, with deeper functionality, than an S-Class had in the early 2010s.
With all cars now featuring more smartphone-linked in-car features through the infotainment system, the need for smartphone-like update cycles has also entered the car world. And that means a lot of small updates that aren’t really recalls…
Many contemporary ‘recalls’ are actually digital operating system upgrades, not mechanical failures.
Not all recalls are the same. If a vehicle has a structural defect, such as a welding issue or a suspension component known to fail, or a safety feature like an airbag that’s faulty, the recall issued is essential or critical. So are issues with engines, transmissions and brakes.
But if a recall doesn’t involve mechanical disassembly and component replacement, can it be referred to as a recall, or an update? That’s the real question. Since over-the-air updates (OTAs) have become possible, it’s seamless and easy to address certain issues on vehicles that, in the early 2000s, would require a full dealer visit, diagnostics, and hours of inconvenience for the owner.
Traditional car companies have struggled to integrate high-end UX into their cars, unlike Chinese brands, which are masters at it. Infotainment glitches, laggy menu selections and overall UX frustration create significant annoyance for drivers and passengers. But they can hardly be classified in the same vein as, for example, a weak weld point on the chassis.
Structural safety is the recall issue that matters most. Here you can include chassis design flaws, potential steering failure, issues around braking system integrity or a transmission that might lock-up at speed. But such extreme mechanical engineering issues are exceedingly rare.
Most non-digital recalls are due to assembly concerns, often caused by misunderstandings between suppliers and manufacturers. It happens when industrial engineering teams fail to properly integrate component upgrades or rigorously enforce batch specification standards for parts.
What is happening with SA car recalls?
Trusted like few other luxury all-terrain SUVs, but the Lexus LX has suffered a recall.
Toyota is South Africa’s most influential car company. It has double the market share of its nearest rival and the Hilux has been South Africa’s best-selling light-commercial vehicle for decades. When Toyota starts recalling, it’s noteworthy – but it also proves that consumer accountability works.
There is an ongoing recall of legacy products throughout Toyota’s South African product line, which has also affected many other Japanese brands. It’s not structural, it’s an airbag issue, and it’s not of Toyota’s making. Japanese company Takata is the global airbag supplier of choice, and it has admitted a fault with several of its airbag production batches.
There have been other instances involving Toyota, however. The most recent recall has concerned its ultra-luxury all-terrain SUVs: the Land Cruiser 300 and its twin, the Lexus LX. These are two of South Africa’s most in-demand full-size luxury SUVs. And both are built on the famed Land Cruiser platform, perhaps the most regarded off-road vehicle architecture available.
The Land Cruiser 300 and Lexus LX recall relates to the ECU software and control unit integrated within the 10-speed Aisin automatic transmission. It affects 1 846 vehicles sold between January 2025 and January 2026.
When traditional tech fails
The Polo Vivo parking brake issue – would an electronic parking brake have been better?
Ford’s most important vehicle, the Ranger, has also been affected. Ford has recalled 438 Ranger XLTs and Wildtraks from 2025. The issue? Failing exhaust-gas recirculation valves, limiting engine power at low speeds and potentially causing engine start-up failures.
Last year, Ford faced a challenging period of recalls. And this year, it’s VW’s turn, with a big recall of its locally made, highly popular Polo Vivo. The issue? Handbrake integrity.
VW discovered a rivet height issue that could cause the parking brake to disengage unexpectedly when a Vivo is parked. This is what triggered the company to engage with Polo Vivo owners who bought their vehicles new between February 2025 and February 2026.
The Polo Vivo is valued for its combination of simplicity and functional design, but this recall would probably never have happened if it had an electronic parking brake. It’s a feature that is increasingly standardised in more passenger vehicles.
Fewer recalls in future?
Will huge screens still seamlessly update in 10 years’ time, or become a software recall nightmare?
There was a time when vehicle rust was the primary concern for owners. But the industry’s coating, primer, and paint specialists solved that. You rarely, if ever, hear of a corrosion issue on a new vehicle.
The increase in software-defined vehicle architectures will make many non-structural or mechanical recall issues irrelevant, solved by seamless monthly OTA updates. But in the hot, dusty and demanding South African driving environment, modern engines will continue to be tested.
Engineering diesel engines for emissions compliance is expensive and complicated. That matters in the South African context because, for most buyers in the country’s most popular full-size vehicle categories (double cabs and SUVs), the overwhelming majority still choose turbodiesel engines.
Stop-start city traffic doesn’t allow diesel engines to reach the operating temperature required for their emissions-control components to trigger the chemical reactions that purge carbon build-up and soot. And over time, that can degrade engine performance and ultimately lead to premature wear and component failures.
The Range Rover SV Ultra has arrived in SA and is quite possibly the most luxurious iteration of the flagship SUV. Here’s pricing and details.
The Range Rover SV Ultra is said to be the most technologically advanced and most luxurious Range Rover yet, according to the brand.
The new Range Rover flagship is powered by a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine. In this application it makes a mammoth 452 kW and 750 Nm and an 8-speed automatic is on duty. Expect a 0-100 sprint to be dispatched in around 4.5 seconds.
But it’s so much more than just its performance. The SV Ultra is all about that soft life and the cabin is possibly one of the finest places to appreciate loud music. Thanks to a new technology called Electrostatic Sound, there are speakers integrated into the seats and there’s a sensory haptic floor.
The system features 21 thin transducers which essentially convert each seat into a personal auditorium. There are speakers integrated into the headrests, footwells, seatbacks and headlining. Electrostatic speaker tech uses up to 90% less power and are lighter, saving 90% mass compared to the conventional coil speakers. Additionally, they are manufactured with zero rare earth elements and from 100% upcycled and recyclable materials by mass.
Pictured is one of the new colours; Titan Silver. This paint incorporates real aluminium flakes for a sparkly, mirror-like finish. The vehicle features Satin Platinum Atlas and Silver Chrome accents and rides on 23-inch alloy wheels.
How much does the new Range Rover SV Ultra cost in South Africa?
What is the price of the Range Rover SV Ultra in South Africa?
As of its April 2026 launch, the Range Rover SV Ultra L is priced from approximately R6,180 500 for the P615 V8 variant. The standard SV Ultra is priced from approximately R5,729 100.
What is the 0-100 km/h time for the SV Ultra V8?
Equipped with the P615 V8 engine and Dynamic Launch engaged, the Range Rover SV Ultra can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 261 km/h.
What is the “Body and Soul Seat” (BASS) technology?
Standard on the Ultra, the Body and Soul Seats use transducers and a pulsating floor to synchronize with the 29-speaker Meridian Signature Sound System, allowing passengers to “feel” the music through immersive vibrations in the first and second rows.
What warranty and maintenance plan is included in SA?
The SV Ultra includes the Land Rover Care Plan, providing a 5-year/100,000 km maintenance plan and a 5-year/100,000 km warranty, ensuring comprehensive coverage at any authorized retailer in South Africa.
