Zuko Komisa
- The used car market saw a strong increase, with over 33,000 vehicles sold in September, up 16% year-on-year, despite pressure on new car sales.
- Consumers are prioritising affordability and practicality, choosing reliable bakkies and budget hatchbacks over luxury vehicles.
- The growth of affordable brands like Hyundai and Suzuki confirms that buyers are adjusting to current tough economic realities.
South Africa’s used car market is defying broader economic pressures, with recent data showing consumers prioritising practicality and affordability over luxury.
Beneath these strong figures, the data paints a clear picture of an economy-conscious buyer: consumers are gravitating towards reliable bakkies (pickups) and budget hatchbacks. The trend indicates that buyers are looking to stretch every rand, seeking maximum value and utility from their purchases.
While established market giants like Toyota, Volkswagen, and Ford continue to dominate the top-selling charts, AutoTrader noted a significant “surge” in demand for affordable models from brands such as Hyundai and Suzuki.
Kaya Biz with Gugulethu Mfuphi spoke to George Mienie, CEO of AutoTrader South Africa, who shared that more than 33,000 used vehicles were sold in September alone, representing a robust 16% year-on-year increase. This surge comes despite continued strain on new car sales.
“The average car buyer is adjusting to tougher financial realities,” explained Mienie.
The figures confirm that South African motorists are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on economic necessity rather than aspirational spending.
Listen to the full conversation here:
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