New and used vehicle sales are skyrocketing

South Africa’s vehicle sales got off to a strong start in 2026.

Used car sales stood at 34,456 in January 2026, a 12.1% month-on-month increase and a growth of 11.3% year-on-year. 

New car sales came in at 37,190, a 4.6% month-on-month increase and 7.14% year-on-year increase.

Motoring enthusiast Kumbi Mtshakaz explained that the momentum built in 2025 is carrying well into the new year.

He added that both sectors remain well-positioned for further growth over the next year.

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“While the new car market constantly increases, the used car market is also seeing a massive uptake. We can see that people are now trusting used cars quite a lot, and it is a viable option for those who can’t necessarily afford a new car.”

AutoTrader reported that the VW Polo Vivo, the Suzuki Swift, Toyota Fortuner, Hyundai Grandi10, Toyota Starlet, and Toyota Corolla Cross remain the best-selling used and new cars across the market.

“That is an indication of where the market is and what people are looking at, in terms of what they want to buy, in terms of a bakkie, a passenger car or a crossover,” Mtshakaz added.

To listen to Mtshakazi in conversation with 702’s Gugs Mhlungu, use the audio player below: