SA new vehicle sales continue to surge: These were the top 15 carmakers in April

Toyota sold 10,677 units in May.

Despite the many economic headwinds facing South Africa, as rising fuel prices filter through to the economy, the country’s new vehicle market continues to outperform expectations.

According to Naamsa, new vehicle sales rose to 51,071 units in May, an increase of 12.8% versus the same month last year. It was also the best May performance since 2013. Dealer sales made up the bulk of local volume, accounting for 90.1% of domestic sales, followed by rental sales (5.3%), corporate fleets (2.5%) and government sales (2.1%).

Passenger car sales led the way at 36,871 units, representing year-on-year growth of 16.3%, while light commercial vehicle and bakkie sales, at 11,251 units, grew by 2.5% versus the same month in 2025. Medium and heavy commercial vehicle sales grew by 13.6% and 12.9%, respectively.

Exports remained under pressure, however, declining by 4.8% year-on-year to 30,859 units.