Rising affordability pressures, higher fuel costs, the growth of Chinese brands and shifting powertrain preferences are reshaping the automotive landscape.
SOUTH Africa’s passenger vehicle market remained resilient in the first quarter of 2026, but demand is evolving.
Rising affordability pressures, higher fuel costs, the growth of Chinese brands and shifting powertrain preferences are reshaping the automotive landscape.
According to TransUnion’s Q1 2026 Mobility Insights Report, passenger vehicle sales reached 114 517 units in Q1 2026, slightly higher than the 114 246 units recorded in Q4 2025.
Year-on-year (YoY) growth eased to 12.6%, from the stronger performance seen during parts of 2025, but demand remained elevated despite a more uncertain macroeconomic environment.
