South Africa is quickly becoming a major player in the global auto industry, with its vibrant manufacturing sector allowing for both foreign and domestic businesses to produce vehicles that are loved around the world.
From luxury sport-utility vehicles built by European automakers to budget-friendly sedans from local manufacturers, there’s something for everyone south of the African continent.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular cars manufactured in South Africa and what you can expect to pay when purchasing them.
Whether you’re looking for stylish sophistication or simple comfort, chances are one of these factory-built automobiles is right for you.
From compact hatchbacks priced affordably enough to be within reach of nearly any driver to performance models appealing to even the most discerning automotive enthusiasts, here is our list of cars made in South Africa and their corresponding prices.
Best Cars Made in South Africa
1. Ford Everest
The Ford Everest is an awe-inspiring SUV that provides individuals and families with a luxurious yet practical ride.
This powerful vehicle has been a hit since its introduction a few years ago, quickly becoming one of the most popular vehicles in its class.
Competing against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and other market giants, this large SUV typically caters to larger families or those who occasionally host extended family members.
It is one of the best cars made in South Africa with prices starting from R744,500, buyers are treated with numerous features that provide comfort, convenience and flexibility on every outing.
Proving to be a great investment, it’s no wonder why more than 124 units have been sold in its most recent review year!
2. Toyota Fortuner
The Toyota Fortuner dominates the roads of South Africa as the most popular car made in the country.
Its sleek and powerful design, along with its impressive off-roading capabilities has contributed to 1172 units being sold in the last review year alone, making this SUV one of the most sought-after cars made within South Africa.
Its starting price is R683,500 and for that, you get a well-crafted vehicle that is capable of conquering practically any terrain; from city streets to rocky hillsides or snow-covered mountain paths – this car proves itself time and again to be an ideal option for those wanting a reliable ride around South Africa.
3. Ford Ranger
Beginning at an affordable R367,200, the Ford Ranger is a great example of a car made in South Africa. Classified both as a Bakkie and Pick Up Truck, it offers the best of both worlds.
Its stylish design and off-road capability make it perfect for any situation – whether you’re heading to work during rush hour or taking a weekend adventure out into nature.
In fact, its popularity has firmly cemented its place as the most-sold car made in South Africa over the past year with 2,964 units purchased!
4. Volkswagen Polo
Starting at just R367,200, the Volkswagen Polo is one of South Africa’s leading car models due to its attractive price point and reliability.
It bears many similarities to the celebrated Volkswagen Golf, allowing drivers to experience similar levels of comfort and performance – whilst benefiting from a more compact design ideal for navigating busy city roads.
The model offers a modern look that appeals particularly to those in their early professional or business careers, such as newlyweds or emerging entrepreneurs.
It has proven immensely popular among South Africans; offering an impressive 2701 units sold in the most recent review year – making this car made in South Africa by far the best-selling within the passenger car sector!
5. Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux, one of the most popular cars made in South Africa, is a game-changer when it comes to pickup trucks.
Offering outstanding performance and durability, the Hilux packs in incredible power that cannot be found anywhere else.
From its striking design to its reliable engine, this vehicle provides an unparalleled experience for drivers who demand excellence from their vehicle.
With prices starting from R291,000, the Hilux is not only affordable but also has a proven history of providing superior operation standards on both urban and rural roads with ease.
The luxurious yet powerful aura makes it one of the best cars manufactured right here in South Africa.
6. Isuzu KB
For those looking for an affordable car made in South Africa, the Isuzu KB bakkie offers exceptional value for money.
Prices start from R200,000 and you get a stylish vehicle with classic lines – complete with a tasteful interior to match.
The exterior design is sleek yet rugged, perfect for those looking to work or play in tough environments.
Underneath that gorgeous hood is a 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine that packs a punch – giving you the power and performance you need without compromising on fuel economy.
As far as cars made in South Africa go, the Isuzu KB is definitely one of the best value-for-money options out there.
Whether you’re aiming to explore off-road terrain or just want something reliable for daily use – this vehicle fits right in!
7. Chevrolet Spark
The compact Chevrolet Spark is a 5-door hatchback car made in South Africa that is ideal for small families with young children.
Despite its small size, it has been able to draw in customers and sell 251 units in the last review year – ensuring excellent value for money.
With prices starting at an accessible level, this South African-manufactured car could be the perfect choice for those seeking reliable transportation without breaking the bank.
8. Nissan NP200
South Africa offers an array of highly reliable cars at competitive prices to suit a variety of driving needs.
The Nissan NP200 bakkie is one such option, offering drivers good value for money starting from R271,400.
This high-performance vehicle is suitable for a range of applications – from transporting items and machines to providing reliable transportation for small businesses offering logistics services.
The car features great fuel efficiency, superior handling, and ample cargo space as well as excellent safety ratings.
Sales figures reveal that the Nissan NP200 Bakkie has been incredibly popular in South Africa over the past year with more than 1175 units sold.
9. Bailey Cars
South African-made Bailey Cars are renowned throughout the world for their dynamic performance and aesthetically pleasing design.
The vehicles are custom-crafted to closely mimic the look and feel of real GT cars – offering drivers a thrilling and exhilarating ride.
Though many of its customers come from Europe, with notable concentrations in the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, and Finland; these unique vehicles can be found worldwide due to their popularity among global motor racing enthusiasts.
10. BMW X3
The BMW X3 is among the most sought-after SUVs made in South Africa due to its unique combination of features.
From a muscular design featuring durable materials like steel, aluminium and magnesium alloy to powerful engines capable of tackling sandy roads or climbing steep mountain paths, this SUV offers a truly extraordinary driving experience.
It also comes equipped with advanced safety systems like traction control and ABS brakes that make it a safe option for long drives on even the toughest terrain.
With immense power at your fingertips and reliable performance under any conditions, the BMW X3 is sure to meet all expectations when it comes to cars made in South Africa.
11. Chevrolet UTE
The BMW X3 is a highly sought-after SUV, manufactured in South Africa and renowned for its qualities of exceptional strength, robust design and powerful performance.
Taking into account the country’s diverse terrain ranging from sandy plains to mountainous regions, this 4×4 has been designed with features such as aluminium and magnesium alloy bodywork, along with Dynamic Stability Control and ABS brakes that allow it to easily surmount any challenging conditions whilst providing maximum safety at every turn.
When you choose a car made in South Africa like the BMW X3 you are guaranteed an extraordinary driving experience complete with immense power and reliable handling even under strenuous conditions.
12. Advanced Automotive Design ADD
Advanced Automotive Design ADD is a South African-based brand, renowned for manufacturing high-quality automobiles.
Their cars are equipped with cutting-edge features and modern technologies, designed to give drivers an exceptionally comfortable and reliable driving experience.
The pioneering designs of the vehicles truly showcase the outstanding engineering capabilities within the country: you can be sure that each car stands apart from its competitors due to its sleek style, safe inner structure and ergonomic layout.
With cars made in South Africa boasting such impressive specs, it’s easy to understand why they have become increasingly popular amongst local drivers and international customers alike.