South Africa’s auto industry shifted into high gear in June, with 47,294 new vehicles sold, a sharp 18.7% rise from the same period last year. This surge signals a return in buyer confidence, boosted by lower interest rates and inflation.
Toyota retained its crown, selling 11,690 units, up from 10,330 in May. Suzuki followed with 5,221 vehicles sold, edging out Volkswagen’s 4,973 units. Ford climbed into fourth place with 3,058 sales, overtaking Hyundai at 2,905.
The Automotive Business Council credits the upswing to “growing affordability and stabilized economic indicators,” noting that dealer activity accounted for nearly 86% of all sales. “We’re finally seeing momentum from both consumers and manufacturers,” said one industry analyst.
China’s GWM and Chery held steady in sixth and seventh place, selling 2,288 and 2,101 units respectively. BMW returned to the top 10 with 1,406 units, bumping Kia off the list. In total, 32,570 passenger cars were sold, up 21.7% year-on-year, while light commercial vehicle sales jumped 14.9% to 12,129 units.
Export figures also offered cause for optimism, with 36,343 vehicles shipped abroad, up 7.9% from June 2024. Industry leaders see this rebound as a strong sign of South Africa’s auto sector regaining ground after months of disrupted output.
“Exports are climbing, dealerships are buzzing again, and competition is tighter than ever,” said a senior sales director at Toyota. “If this pace holds, 2025 could be a record year.”
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