SA's new vehicle sales start off strong in 2026 after a bumper 2025

South Africa's new vehicle market kicked off the new year on a buoyant note, sustaining the momentum of a record-breaking 2025.

This confirms that the positive trajectory established last year has carried decisively into 2026, reports the Automotive Business Council NAAMSA.

The figures for January 2026 show an increase of 7.5% year-on-year.

A total of 50,073 units were sold – 3,479 units more than the 46,594 recorded in January 2024.

The new passenger car market recorded 37,190 units, an increase of 7.1% (2,480 units) compared to 34,710 cars sold in January last year.

As motoring journo Melinda Ferguson points out, January is traditionally a quiet month for car sales, with South Africans feeling cash-strapped after the festive season.

NAAMSA notes that the January 2026 performance reflects "not merely a carry-over or base effect, but a material improvement in underlying demand conditions", supported by moderating inflation, stable macroeconomic variables, and a resilient consumer base.

Old favourite Toyota remains South Africa' top brand, with over 11 786 vehicles sold.

Suzuki took second spot at just over half that number, with Volkswagen following in third place.

TOP 10 SELLING VEHICLE BRANDS in SA for JANUARY 2026

1. Toyota - 11 786 units

2. Suzuki Auto - 6 410 units

3.  Volkswagen Group SA - 4 774 units 

4. Hyundai Automotive SA - 3 048 units

5. Ford Motor Company - 2 678 units

6. GWM SA - 2 521 units

7. Chery Auto SA - 2 258 units

8. Kia South Africa - 1 888 units

9. Mahindra - 1 671 units

8. Isuzu Motors SA - 1 606 units

To listen to Melinda Ferguson in conversation with Sara-Jayne Makwala King on CapeTalk's Weekend Breakfast, click on the audio link below: