The 10 Used Cars South Africans Can’t Stop Buying in 2026
By Gavinko G Khosa
South Africa’s used-car market is continuing to grow, despite pressure on household budgets and higher borrowing costs.
According to AutoTrader’s 2026 Mid-Year Car Industry Report, 195,455 used vehicles were sold between January and June 2026, an 8% increase compared with the same period in 2025. The value of these sales rose by 9% to R82.38 billion.
But what are South Africans actually buying?
The best-selling used cars in 2026
The Ford Ranger remained South Africa’s best-selling used vehicle, followed by the Toyota Hilux and Volkswagen Polo Vivo.
The top 10 were:
- Ford Ranger – 11,365
- Toyota Hilux – 8,809
- Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 7,164
- Volkswagen Polo – 7,149
- Suzuki Swift – 4,872
- Toyota Fortuner – 3,998
- Toyota Corolla Cross – 3,690
- Isuzu D-Max – 3,344
- Hyundai Grand i10 – 3,290
- Toyota Starlet – 2,944
The list highlights a clear mix of popular bakkies, SUVs and more affordable hatchbacks.
Affordability is influencing buying decisions
Smaller, more affordable cars are gaining ground, with models such as the Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Grand i10 and Volkswagen Starlet featuring in the top 10.
The average selling price across the top 10 models was R344,354, significantly below the overall used-car average of R421,499.
The data suggests buyers are becoming more focused on affordability, fuel economy and everyday practicality.
SUVs, Chinese brands and hybrids are on the rise
SUVs remain the leading vehicle type, accounting for 33% of used-car sales, with the Toyota Fortuner leading the category.
Chinese car brands are also gaining momentum. Searches increased by 29%, while sales grew by 57%, showing that consumers are increasingly moving from simply researching these brands to actually buying them.
Meanwhile, used hybrid and electric vehicle sales increased by 92% year on year. Hybrids made up 83% of new-energy vehicle sales, led by the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid.
What does this mean for used-car buyers?
The biggest takeaway is that South Africans are still buying cars — but they are becoming more selective.
While premium and performance cars continue to attract plenty of online interest, actual sales are leaning towards vehicles that offer value, practicality and manageable running costs.
Whether you’re looking for a bakkie, SUV, hatchback, hybrid or electric vehicle, the 2026 market offers plenty of choice. The key is finding a used car that fits both your lifestyle and your budget.
Source: AutoTrader Used Car Sales Data, 1 January–30 June 2026.
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