Naamsa’s vehicle sales data offers a deep dive into South Africa’s automotive market. This detailed analysis not only uncovers the top 10 best-selling car brands for 2024 but also reveals important shifts in sales trends compared to 2023. By examining data from January to December 2024, we can see which brands gained traction and which faced challenges amid the shifting dynamics of the market. Let’s take a closer look at the leading car brands of 2024 and the key features that make them stand out.
Top 10 Best-Selling Car Brands for 2024:
| Rank | Brand | Units Sold (2024) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota | 124,435 | Renowned for reliability and affordability, Toyota’s range includes the Hilux, Fortuner, and Corolla, all known for their durability, safety, and fuel efficiency. |
| 2 | Volkswagen | 60,975 | Popular for its stylish designs and innovative tech, Volkswagen offers models like the Polo, Golf, and Tiguan, known for premium interiors and advanced safety features. |
| 3 | Suzuki Auto | 59,574 | Suzuki’s budget-friendly options like the Swift and Vitara are loved for their fuel efficiency, compact designs, and low maintenance costs. |
| 4 | Ford | 32,766 | Ford’s focus on performance and practicality is evident in models like the Ranger and EcoSport, offering strong engines, advanced tech, and rugged designs. |
| 5 | Hyundai | 30,797 | Hyundai combines value and style with models like the Tucson and i20, featuring modern designs, impressive fuel economy, and excellent warranties. |
| 6 | Isuzu | 23,290 | Known for their workhorse trucks like the D-Max, Isuzu offers rugged vehicles with a focus on durability, off-road capabilities, and reliability. |
| 7 | Nissan | 22,288 | Nissan’s range, including the Navara and X-Trail, is celebrated for its reliability, off-road prowess, and family-friendly features like spacious interiors. |
| 8 | Chery | 19,912 | Chery’s rapid growth in South Africa is attributed to its affordable models like the Tiggo 4 Pro, which offer modern tech, good fuel economy, and stylish designs. |
| 9 | Renault | 15,822 | Known for its innovative designs and affordability, Renault’s models like the Kwid and Duster provide great fuel efficiency, strong safety features, and value for money. |
| 10 | Kia | 14,778 | Kia’s range, including the Seltos and Sportage, is loved for its sleek designs, top-tier technology, and long warranties, offering a balance of style and practicality. |
A Closer Look at 2024’s Top-Selling Brands
While Toyota continued its reign as the best-selling brand in South Africa, its sales experienced a slight dip, from 138,357 units in 2023 to 124,435 units in 2024. Despite this decrease, Toyota still held a commanding lead, thanks to its well-established models like the Hilux, Fortuner, and Corolla, which are beloved for their longevity and reliability.
Volkswagen also maintained its stronghold in second place, though it too saw a slight drop, from 61,197 units in 2023 to 60,975 in 2024. Volkswagen is known for offering a mix of performance and luxury, with popular models like the Polo and Golf providing cutting-edge technology, superior interiors, and a smooth driving experience.
In contrast, Suzuki Auto saw significant growth, posting 59,574 units in 2024 compared to 49,436 units in 2023. This growth underscores Suzuki’s appeal among budget-conscious buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency and affordable maintenance, with models like the Swift and Vitara becoming top choices.
Ford, in fourth place, showed solid growth, increasing sales from 30,710 to 32,766 units. Ford’s focus on performance, particularly through its rugged models like the Ranger and EcoSport, helped it maintain a loyal customer base looking for both capability and comfort.
Hyundai, a brand known for its value-oriented models like the Tucson and i20, experienced a slight dip in sales, dropping from 31,713 in 2023 to 30,797 in 2024. Despite this, Hyundai’s competitive pricing, stylish designs, and strong warranties continue to attract a wide range of South African consumers.
Isuzu, with its tough workhorse vehicles like the D-Max, sold 23,290 units, remaining largely stable compared to 2023’s figures. The brand’s reputation for durability and off-road capability remains strong, particularly among businesses and individuals looking for a dependable vehicle for demanding conditions.
On the other hand, Nissan faced a substantial decline, with sales dropping from 29,160 units in 2023 to 22,288 in 2024, largely due to the discontinuation of the popular NP200. This shift highlights the challenges Nissan faced in maintaining its competitive edge in the local market.
Chery, one of the standout success stories of 2024, experienced remarkable growth, increasing its sales from 16,102 units in 2023 to 19,912 in 2024. This reflects the growing influence of Chinese automakers in South Africa, with Chery offering affordable and tech-driven models like the Tiggo 4 Pro, appealing to a younger, budget-conscious demographic.
Renault and Kia, however, faced challenges. Renault’s sales dropped from 21,703 to 15,822 units, while Kia saw a decrease from 19,086 to 14,778. Both brands offer great value, but their declining figures point to increased competition in the local market and the rise of newer entrants like Chery.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we head into 2025, it will be interesting to see whether the trends of 2024 continue. Toyota will likely remain dominant, but brands like Suzuki and Chery could continue to challenge the established players, especially as South African consumers increasingly seek value-driven, tech-forward options. The influence of Chinese brands will only grow, and how local automakers adapt to these changes will be key to maintaining their positions in the competitive South African market.
Related article: South Africa’s 50 Best-Selling Cars: A Look at the Top Market Trends
