Automatic cars were once viewed as a luxury in South Africa, but this perception is shifting. With 10 cheapest automatic cars now available for under R275,000, they have become increasingly accessible to a wider audience. These vehicles are ideal for the country’s varied terrains and bustling city traffic, offering practical solutions for both daily commutes and long-distance travel.
Why Choose Automatic Cars?
The appeal of automatic transmissions lies in their ease of use. Unlike manual cars, they eliminate the need for a clutch and constant gear shifting, making them especially suitable for navigating urban traffic or hilly landscapes. For new drivers, automatics reduce stress, allowing greater focus on the road.
In stop-and-go traffic, a common reality in South African cities, automatic cars minimise driver fatigue by removing the hassle of manual gear changes. This translates into a more comfortable and relaxed driving experience, even on longer journeys.
Cost and Fuel Efficiency
Modern automatic cars are also more fuel-efficient than their predecessors. Advances in technology now allow manufacturers to create systems that optimise gear shifts based on driving conditions, resulting in better fuel economy. In a country where rising fuel prices strain budgets, these savings are a significant advantage.
Despite being historically associated with luxury models, cheapest automatic cars are now more widely available. Financial experts advise spending no more than 25% of your net monthly income on vehicle expenses. With an average South African salary of R28,220 per month, many workers can allocate up to R7,055 monthly to car costs, making these budget-friendly automatics well within reach.
10 Cheapest Automatic Cars
- Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 GL – R192,900
Compact and economical, the S-Presso offers a fuel consumption rate of 4.4L/100km, making it ideal for city driving.
- Renault Kwid 1.0 Zen – R216,999
Known for its efficiency, the Kwid delivers 4.9L/100km fuel consumption and a reliable 1.0-litre engine.
- Proton Saga 1.3 Standard – R224,900
A balanced option with a 1.3-litre engine and modern styling, the Saga consumes 7.0L/100km.
- Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GL – R225,900
Offering 4.2L/100km fuel efficiency, the Celerio is both economical and practical.
- Toyota Vitz 1.0 XR – R239,900
A compact option with a fuel consumption rate of 4.2L/100km, the Vitz is a reliable city car.
- Suzuki Dzire 1.2 GL – R254,900
The Dzire combines comfort and efficiency with 4.9L/100km fuel consumption.
- Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL+ – R259,900
With a sporty look and 4.6L/100km efficiency, the Swift appeals to youthful drivers.
- Nissan Magnite 1.0 Visia – R263,200
Featuring a robust 1.0-litre engine, the Magnite delivers 5.9L/100km and modern features.
- Renault Triber 1.0 Intens – R264,999
Perfect for families, the Triber offers space and practicality with 5.5L/100km fuel consumption.
- Hyundai Grand i10 1.2 Premium – R269,900
A trusted name, the Grand i10 combines reliability with 5.9L/100km fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
Automatic cars are no longer exclusive to the luxury market. With technological advancements and improved affordability, they offer unmatched convenience for South African drivers. Whether you need a reliable commuter car or a comfortable family vehicle, these options provide a blend of performance, efficiency, and value. Financing tools such as WesBank’s vehicle finance calculator make these cars more accessible, ensuring that convenience doesn’t have to come at an exorbitant cost.
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