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South Africa’s new vehicle market had another stellar month in June and looks set to surpass 600,000 sales in 2026.According to figures by industry body Naamsa, June recorded the strongest sales performance for the month since 2007, with 54,482 new vehicles sold, a 15.3% increase over the same month last year. The passenger vehicle market was the best performer with 38,393 units, up an impressive 18.1% year-on-year, while light commercial vehicles (bakkies and minibuses) rose 8.4% to 13,171 units.Year-to-date, the market has reached 315,303 units, 12.9% ahead of the corresponding period in 2025.Commenting on the results, Ryan Seele, executive at the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (Nada), said the market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience despite ongoing economic pressures.“Consumers are still navigating a challenging economic environment, with the rising cost of living, fuel prices and broader financial pressures all influencing purchasing decisions. Yet the market continues to perform exceptionally well, suggesting buyers are recognising value where it exists.”He noted a shift back towards trusted, established brands.“History shows that during periods of economic uncertainty, consumers become more cautious about where they spend their money. We saw this during previous economic downturns, and we’re seeing similar behaviour today. Buyers are gravitating towards brands they know and trust, placing greater emphasis on reliability, dealer support and long-term ownership value.”Nada said the trend was evident in the sustained growth of South Africa’s leading passenger vehicle brands, with Toyota, Suzuki and Volkswagen each recording three consecutive months of growth. Toyota comfortably retained its long-held market leadership in June, ahead of Suzuki and Volkswagen Group.Chinese manufacturers continued to strengthen their position, however, and five of the top 15 selling brands last month were from that country. The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro imported from China was the second best-selling passenger car last month, behind the locally built VW Polo Vivo.The Toyota Hilux, built in Durban, remained South Africa’s most popular overall seller by a wide margin.Top 30 selling vehicles – June 20261. Toyota Hilux: 3,4642. VW Polo Vivo: 2,3713. Ford Ranger: 2,1504. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro: 2,0705. Isuzu D-Max: 1,7246. Hyundai Grand i10: 1,4907. Haval Jolion: 1,4248. Suzuki Swift: 1,3889. Toyota Corolla Cross: 1,35610. Toyota Urban Cruiser: 1,17411. Suzuki Ertiga: 1,15012. Suzuki Fronx: 1,09213. Toyota Starlet: 96814. Toyota Vitz: 92115. Jetour T2: 91816. Omoda C5: 90117. VW Polo: 86418. Kia Sonet: 83319. Mahindra XUV 3XO: 81620. Toyota Fortuner: 72621. VW T-Cross: 61922. Toyota Hiace: 59123. GWM P-Series: 56524. Toyota Rumion: 56125. Jetour Dashing: 53126. Tata Tiago: 51427. Renault Kwid: 50528. VW Amarok: 49729. Renault Triber: 48730. Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup: 462Source: Lightstone /Naamsa
