South Africa’s new vehicle sales extended their growth momentum in June, even amid high inflation and following an interest rate hike in May.
They delivered the best June monthly figure since 2007, with a year-on-year increase of 15,3%.
June’s performance is particularly noteworthy given the contraction in consumer confidence recorded during the second quarter of 2026, says Naamsa.
“While households and businesses have become increasingly cautious amid rising fuel costs (dropping now in July) and broader economic uncertainty, vehicle demand remained underpinned by essential mobility needs and ongoing economic activity.”
A total of 54,482 units were sold in June 2026 – 7,213 units more than the 47,269 vehicles sold in June 2025.
The new passenger car market recorded 38,393 units, an increase of 18,1% compared to the 32,511 vehicles sold in June 2025.
Exports remained under pressure, however, with sales at 33,879 units, reflecting a year-on-year decrease of 6.9%.
Motoring journalist Melinda Ferguson has described South Africans’ love for new vehicles, as one of the most captive markets in the world.
And of course, the influx of more affordable imports, particularly from China, is helping to drive the boom in sales.
Just on Friday, Chinese carmaker Chery took over Nissan’s Rosslyn plant in Pretoria.
“Chinese vehicle sale have grown 75% year-on-year in the first quarter and now make up 19% of sales in South Africa, but they actually have 40% of vehicle brands here now… And if they start manufacturing here, that’s what we want for job creation or retention as with the Rosslyn plant.”
In June, old favourite Toyota remained South Africa’s top brand, with close to 12,500 vehicles sold.
The battle for second place between Suzuki and Volkswagen continued, with the Japanese carmaker clawing back second spot.
Suzuki recorded just over half of Toyota’s volumes, with VW following closely behind in third position.
TOP 10 SELLING VEHICLE BRANDS in SA for JUNE 2026
1. Toyota – 12 417 units
2. Suzuki Auto – 5 689 units
3. Volkswagen Group SA – 5 613 units
4. Hyundai Automotive SA – 2 986 units
5. Ford Motor Company – 2 961 units
6. GWM SA – 2 608 units
7. Chery Auto SA – 2 602 units
8. Isuzu Motors SA – 2 121 units
9. Jetour SA – 2 054 units
10. Mahindra – 1 669 units
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