South Africa’s used-car market opened 2026 with strong momentum, as sales jumped 11% year-on-year in January, signaling continued resilience despite economic headwinds.
More than 34,000 used vehicles changed hands during the month, pushing total transaction value to about $892 million, according to data from AutoTrader South Africa. The figures marked double-digit growth both from December and from the same period last year.
Toyota used cars dominate the market
At brand level, Toyota used cars retained clear leadership, selling 5,876 units in January. That placed four Toyota models among the country’s ten best-selling used vehicles. Toyota sales were up 17% month-on-month.
Volkswagen followed with 4,733 units, while Ford ranked third with 3,577 vehicles sold. More than half of Ford’s sales came from the Ford Ranger pickup, which remained South Africa’s most popular individual model.
Ford Ranger pickup stays on top
The Ford Ranger pickup recorded 2,069 sales in January, a 6.3% increase from a year earlier. The Toyota Hilux followed with 1,604 units sold, while the Volkswagen Polo Vivo and Polo models continued to attract strong interest.
Compact hatchbacks and budget-friendly vehicles emerged as key growth drivers. The Suzuki Swift climbed the rankings with nearly 800 units sold, posting close to 25% annual growth.
Affordable cars drive used car market value
Other fast-growing models included the Corolla Cross and Hyundai Grand i10, with year-on-year gains of over 40% and nearly 72%, respectively. Hyundai recorded the strongest annual brand growth at 45%, while Suzuki led month-on-month expansion at 25%.
On the downside, BMW was the only major brand to decline month-on-month, though it still posted modest annual growth. Mercedes-Benz and Nissan recorded the sharpest year-on-year drops among leading brands.
Overall, the January figures underline the growing importance of affordability, reliability, and value in South Africa’s used car market value, making the sector a key indicator of consumer spending and mobility trends.
Read also: Ford set to list, sell certified used cars on Amazon, following Hyundai’s lead
