New-vehicle sales shot the lights out last month, achieving the highest total since September 2015 as the market continued to experience robust demand.
September was the highest-selling month so far this year. It was also the third consecutive month of volumes above 50,000 units and marked 12 consecutive months of growth for the new-vehicle market.
“A more favourable economic outlook should continue to support increased new vehicle sales,” said Lebo Gaoaketse, head of marketing and communication at WesBank. “Stability in fuel prices with only marginal shifts expected this month, improved performance of the currency, and the decision to maintain interest rates all contribute to consumer and business confidence.”
Thembinkosi Pantsi, vice-chair of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (Nada), said: “Access to additional funds through the two-pot retirement system has contributed to some households becoming creditworthy again."
Nada expected continued demand for new vehicles due to renewed optimism in the country.
“US dollar weakness is helping the rand, which will contribute to new vehicle pricing stability for some time to come,” said Nada chair Brandon Cohen.
Last month’s passenger car segment grew 28% over September 2024 to 38,603 cars, while light commercial vehicles increased 19.7% to 13,078 units.
Toyota continued its market leadership with 14,146 new vehicle sales in September for a 26% market share, with Suzuki in second place and Volkswagen third.
The Toyota Hilux retained its status as the country’s best-selling model, selling 3,639 units. The brand had nine models in the top 30 sellers, led by the Corolla Cross, Starlet, Vitz and Urban Cruiser.
The second-best seller overall, and the top passenger car, was the VW Polo Vivo with 2,470 units. Chinese brands continued their strong showing and had six models in the month’s top 30 sellers, led by the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro (1,377 units).
Best-selling new vehicles — September 2025
- Toyota Hilux — 3,639
- VW Polo Vivo — 2,470
- Ford Ranger — 2,270
- Suzuki Swift — 2,265
- Isuzu D-Max — 2,054
- Toyota Corolla Cross — 1,891
- Toyota Starlet — 1,629
- Hyundai Grand i10 — 1,451
- Toyota Vitz — 1,446
- Chery Tiggo 4 Pro — 1,377
- Haval Jolion — 1,215
- Toyota Urban Cruiser — 1,191
- Suzuki Fronx — 1,054
- Kia Sonet — 1,023
- Nissan Magnite — 916
- Toyota Fortuner — 842
- VW Polo — 789
- Omoda C5 — 784
- Suzuki Ertiga — 765
- Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up — 750
- Renault Kwid — 669
- Toyota Starlet Cross — 666
- VW T-Cross — 606
- Toyota Rumion — 594
- Toyota Hiace — 557
- Mahindra XUV 3XO — 552
- Jetour Dashing — 519
- Haval H6 — 496
- Suzuki Baleno — 478
- GWM P-Series — 458
• Source: Lightstone/Naamsa
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