South Africa’s Top 10: Best-Selling Bakkies 

Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), expressed his surprise and satisfaction with the new vehicle sales figures. In January 2025, domestic sales reached 46,398 units, marking an increase of 4,375 units compared to January 2024. Export sales also saw positive growth, rising by 5,803 units to a total of 25,348 units in January 2025.
It was a strong start to the year, with new vehicle sales climbing 7.3% in February, reaching 47,987 units compared to the same period in 2024. Given that the market took time to stabilise last year, this growth signals renewed consumer confidence, largely driven by the passenger vehicle segment.

However, not all sectors saw the same upward trend. Light-commercial vehicle (LCV) sales, which include bakkies, declined by 11.3%, totalling 11,802 units. This dip suggests shifting dynamics in the market, possibly influenced by higher interest rates, economic uncertainty, or changes in market demand.

Are these the best bakkies to buy in South Africa?

South Africans have a deep-rooted love for bakkies—and for good reason. These rugged workhorses are prized for their versatility, durability, off-road capability, and strong resale value. Whether for business, leisure, or adventure, a bakkie remains a top choice to many. The latest sales figures reveal which models are dominating the market, offering a glimpse into which bakkies continue to deliver on reliability, performance, and value for money.
Below, we’ve rounded up the top-performing bakkies that are winning over enthusiasts by the numbers.

1. Toyota Hilux

Taking the top spot once again is the Toyota Hilux, a long-time favourite among bakkie owners. In February 2025 alone, 2,683 units were sold, bringing the total for the first two months of the year to 5,240. Despite stiff competition from the Ford Ranger and Isuzu D-Max, the Hilux continues to dominate.
Its success is largely due to its reputation for durability, the popularity of its single-cab workhorse models, and Toyota’s trusted after-sales service.

2. Ford Ranger

Securing second place is the Ford Ranger, which has been gaining momentum since its December 2022 launch. Year-to-date sales have reached 4,026 units, reflecting a solid 16.7% increase compared to January 2025. This growth highlights the Ranger’s appeal, thanks to its blend of rugged capability, modern tech, and versatile configurations. Its strong performance in both lifestyle and commercial segments, along with Ford’s continuous refinements, has made it a top choice for buyers seeking power, comfort, and reliability in a bakkie.

3. Isuzu D-Max

The Isuzu D-Max holds its position as South Africa’s third best-selling bakkie, with 3,337 units sold in the first two months of 2025. Originally known as the KB, the name was updated with the introduction of the seventh-generation model in 2022. February saw an impressive 36.2% month-on-month sales jump to 1,924 units, narrowing the gap to the Ford Ranger to just 244 units. Notably, government fleet sales contributed 452 units (23.5%) to Isuzu’s total, showcasing its strong presence in both private and commercial sectors.

4. Mahindra Pik Up

The Mahindra Pik Up has cemented itself as South Africa’s fourth best-selling bakkie, with 1,564 units sold so far in 2025. Available in 32 variants—including single cabs, double cabs, and chassis cabs—the Pik Up is known for its affordability, offering a budget-friendly alternative to mainstream brands. Assembled in Durban in a semi-knocked-down (SKD) process, Mahindra has ambitious plans to transition into full-scale local manufacturing. Its rugged design, reliability, and competitive pricing have contributed to its growing popularity among workhorse and lifestyle bakkie buyers.

5. Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser 79 pickup, known for its rugged durability and old-school design, remains a favourite among farmers and off-road enthusiasts. With 1,065 units sold in 2025 so far, this imported workhorse continues to be a top choice for those who need a bakkie that can handle extreme conditions. Its powerful diesel engines, solid axle construction, and legendary reliability make it ideal for agricultural, commercial, and adventure use. 

6. Nissan Navara

The locally built Nissan Navara, produced at the Rosslyn plant, secured its position as South Africa’s sixth best-selling bakkie with 412 units sold in February 2025. The Navara continues to attract buyers with its blend of rugged capability, modern technology, and edgy design. Available in both single- and double-cab configurations, it appeals to a wide range of consumers, from business owners to adventure-seekers. 

7. Volkswagen Amarok 

The Volkswagen Amarok, which shares its underpinnings with the Ford Ranger, secured the seventh spot with 290 units sold in February 2025. Built at Ford’s Silverton plant, the Amarok combines German engineering with the proven capabilities of its platform, offering a premium alternative in the bakkie market. With a focus on refinement, advanced technology, and off-road prowess, the Amarok continues to attract those who want a blend of workhorse utility and lifestyle appeal. 

8.  GWM P-Series

The GWM P-Series secured the eighth position with 232 units sold, maintaining its place among South Africa’s best-selling bakkies. This versatile range has recently expanded to include the P300 derivatives, powered by a new 2.4-litre turbo diesel engine, offering enhanced performance and efficiency. Known for its competitive pricing, modern styling, and growing reputation for reliability, the P-Series continues to attract buyers seeking an affordable yet capable bakkie. 

9. Foton Tunland G7

The Foton Tunland G7 secured the ninth spot with 201 units sold, marking a significant milestone for the brand. This achievement effectively pushed the new Mitsubishi Triton out of the top 10. Notably, this is the first time Foton has reported sales figures to Naamsa since re-entering the local market in June 2024. 

10. GWM Steed

The GWM Steed rounded out the top 10 with 125 units sold in February 2025. While this may seem like a modest figure, it marks an impressive 68.9% increase compared to its January sales. This surge suggests growing interest in the budget-friendly workhorse, which has long been recognised for offering a cost-effective alternative in the light commercial vehicle segment. 

Overview 

Ultimately, the combined success of these bakkie models, along with the passenger vehicle market’s rise, demonstrates the resilience and diversity of the South African automotive landscape, showing that despite challenges, consumer demand remains favourable across the segment.

Top 10 Year-to-date best-selling bakkies in South Africa

1. Toyota Hilux
2. Ford Ranger
3. Isuzu D-Max
4. Mahindra Scorpio Pik Up
5. Toyota Land Cruiser 79
6. Nissan Navara
7. VW Amarok
8. Hyundai H100 BakkieGWM P-Series
9. GWM P-Series
10. Jac T-Series