South Africans are getting smarter about how they buy cars.

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GUEST – George Mienie, CEO of AutoTrader South Africa

AutoTrader’s latest data shows that while new car sales remain under pressure, the used car market is holding strong with more than 33,000 vehicles sold in September alone, up 16% year-on-year.

But the story beneath the numbers tells us even more about the economy: Consumers are choosing reliable bakkies and budget hatchbacks over luxury brands, stretching every rand for value and practicality. Brands like Toyota, Volkswagen and Ford still dominate, but there’s a clear surge in affordable models from Hyundai and Suzuki proof that the average car buyer is adjusting to tougher financial realities.
20 Oct 2025 1PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

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