South Africa’s 10 Most Popular Used Car Brands in 2026 (So Far)
If you’re thinking of getting a used car this year, here’s the lowdown: the South African used car market is booming in 2026, and the numbers are looking seriously good. According to AutoTrader, 34,452 vehicles were sold in January alone, which is way up from last year and last month.
So, what’s hot right now? Bakkies and small, affordable cars are the big winners, and everyone from students to young professionals is snapping them up.
Toyota Still Rules
No surprise here: Toyota is still king, selling 5,876 cars in January 2026. That’s up 17% from December 2025! Toyota isn’t just popular—it owns 40% of the top 10 used car market, proving it’s a brand people trust for reliability and resale value.
Right behind Toyota are Volkswagen with 4,733 units sold and Ford with 3,577 units, most of which were Ford Rangers—yes, the bakkie everyone loves. Hyundai and Suzuki are also rising fast, with Hyundai growing 45% YoYand Suzuki shooting up 25% MoM.
Most Wanted Models
Here’s the top 10 used cars youth are actually buying in January 2026:
| Rank | Model | Units Sold | Avg Price (R) | Avg Age (yrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ford Ranger | 2,069 | 493,227 | 5 |
| 2 | Toyota Hilux | 1,604 | 479,059 | 6 |
| 3 | VW Polo Vivo | 1,389 | 214,023 | 5 |
| 4 | VW Polo | 1,299 | 269,709 | 4 |
| 5 | Suzuki Swift | 794 | 208,767 | 3 |
| 6 | Toyota Fortuner | 708 | 490,114 | 7 |
| 7 | Toyota Corolla Cross | 651 | 384,163 | 3 |
| 8 | Isuzu D-Max | 558 | 431,632 | 4 |
| 9 | Hyundai Grand i10 | 550 | 194,961 | 4 |
| 10 | Toyota Starlet | 494 | 239,060 | 3 |
A few things stand out:
- Ford Ranger is still the bakkie everyone wants.
- Small rides like the Suzuki Swift, VW Polo, and Hyundai Grand i10 are getting super popular with city drivers.
- Toyota Fortuner and Hilux are classics that still hold strong.
- Younger buyers are looking for affordable, low-maintenance cars that are easy to drive in town.
What This Means for You
Cars are getting more value-driven, which is great news if you want something reliable without breaking the bank. Prices are averaging R416,082, and the average mileage is dropping, meaning you’re getting younger, fresher carsthan before.
George Mienie, AutoTrader CEO, says it best:
“Buyers are balancing dependability with affordability. From Toyota and Ford to rising stars like Hyundai and Suzuki, the market is healthy, active, and ready for 2026.”
If you’re a youth driver or first-time buyer, now’s a perfect time to check out used cars that won’t drain your wallet but still look cool and last long. Bakkies, compact hatchbacks, and city-friendly SUVs are the way to go.
