These Are South Africa’s Top 10 Best-Selling Car Brands – May 2025

According to Naamsa’s May report, the current rate cut came at just the right moment. With inflation easing and the Rand showing some strength, it’s suddenly a lot easier (and cheaper) for everyday South Africans to finance a car. And it’s showing—car sales in May 2025 jumped by a massive 22% compared to this time last year! 

More people are buying passenger cars, bakkies, and even big trucks. Rental companies are also back in the game, which shows growing confidence in the economy. Sure, exports fell a little because Volkswagen paused to get ready for a new model. Overall, things are looking better for the local car scene.

So, if you’ve been holding off on upgrading your ride, this could be your sign. Let’s take a look at which car brands are topping the charts right now in South Africa…

Meet the Top 10 Car Brands (May 2025)

Toyota – 10,330 Units Sold

Once again, Toyota takes the crown. With over 10,000 vehicles sold in May, it remains South Africa’s go-to brand. Whether it’s the trusty Hilux bakkie (still the country’s best-seller), the Corolla Cross, or the ever-popular Urban Cruiser, Toyota’s reputation for reliability and resale value continues to win hearts.

Why Mzansi loves Toyota:

• Locally built (hello, Prospecton plant!)
• Known for durability on tough terrain
• Wide service network and affordable maintenance

Suzuki – 5,536 Units Sold

Suzuki has seriously levelled up in South Africa. With compact, affordable models that are light on fuel, it’s easy to see why it’s number two. The Swift hatchback was May’s best-selling passenger car, with 1,842 units sold.

Top reasons South Africans are choosing Suzuki:

• Budget-friendly pricing
• Great fuel economy (perfect for current petrol prices!)
• Solid value with a fun drive

Volkswagen – 4,582 Units Sold

Volkswagen (including Audi) came in third, thanks to strong sales of the Polo Vivo, which remains one of SA’s favourite city cars. With manufacturing right here in Kariega (Uitenhage), VW continues to be a proud local player.

Why VW stays popular in SA:

• Trusted brand for generations
• Local production = better parts availability
• Polo Vivo is a top choice for young professionals and families alike

Hyundai – 3,251 Units Sold

Hyundai is a steady contender in the local market. The Grand i10, with 1,350 units sold in May, continues to win over budget-conscious buyers who still want modern features.

SA drivers love Hyundai for:

• Competitive pricing
• Strong warranty and after-sales support
• Simple, reliable everyday cars

Ford – 2,932 Units Sold

Ford climbed the ranks in May, and it’s no surprise why—the Ranger bakkie had a standout month with 2,147 units sold. It’s giving the Hilux a serious run for its money, especially in rural and workhorse markets.

Ford’s key selling points in SA:

• Powerful performance for on/off-road
• Local assembly in Silverton
• Ranger’s rugged design is built for SA roads

GWM / Haval – 2,069 Units Sold

The Chinese brands are gaining momentum, and GWM/Haval are leading the pack. With stylish SUVs at great prices, they’re becoming more visible on South African roads.

Why locals are starting to trust GWM & Haval:

• Affordable SUVs with luxury touches
• Modern tech and safety features
• Longer warranties than some legacy brands

Chery – 1,995 Units Sold

Another Chinese success story, Chery continues to impress. The Tiggo 4 Pro is becoming a familiar face at mall parking lots, with over 1,200 units sold in May alone.

SA buyers like Chery because:

• Sleek designs and well-specced interiors
• Aggressive pricing
• Excellent value-for-money

Isuzu – 1,961 Units Sold

Isuzu's D-Max bakkie continues to be a top pick for both commercial and private use. With 1,473 units sold, it proves South Africans still love their bakkies.

Isuzu’s appeal includes:

• Rugged workhorse reliability
• Popular with fleets and farmers
• Solid resale value

Mahindra – 1,524 Units Sold

Mahindra has carved out a niche in the South African market by offering no-frills, practical vehicles. Whether it’s the XUV300 or the Scorpio-N, Mahindra is a smart pick for value-driven buyers.

SA likes Mahindra for:

• Rugged design
• Affordable pricing
• Strong dealership growth across the country

Kia – 1,406 Units Sold

Kia closes out the top 10. With cars like the Sonet and Picanto, it quietly built a loyal following in South Africa. May’s numbers prove it’s a brand to watch.

Kia’s local strengths include:

• Modern design
• Compact models ideal for urban life
• Excellent safety and tech features

May’s Top 50 Best-Selling Models

What’s Fueling the Sales?

• Interest Rate Cuts – The repo rate dropped 25 basis points, making vehicle financing more accessible.
• Local Manufacturing – Toyota, VW, Ford, and Isuzu all build right here in SA, which helps keep prices competitive.
• SUV & Bakkie Boom – South Africans love practicality, and vehicles like the Hilux, Ranger, and Corolla Cross reflect that.
• Chinese Brand Takeover? – Chery, GWM, and Mahindra are disrupting the market with value-packed offers.

Final Thoughts

All signs point to one thing—South Africa’s car market is on the move, and in a good way. With interest rates finally taking a dip, buying a new vehicle is a bit more within reach for many South Africans. Add to that a strong lineup of local and international brands, exciting new models, and a growing appetite for bakkies, budget hatchbacks, and stylish SUVs, and it’s easy to see why showroom floors are buzzing.

Whether you're after the reliability of a Toyota, the affordability of a Suzuki, the prestige of a VW, or the value-packed punch of a Chery or Haval, there’s something for every driver and budget right now. And with many brands manufacturing right here at home, it’s also a win for the economy. With that said, if you’ve been waiting for the right time to upgrade your ride—this might just be it.