South Africa Auto Sales See Best September Since 2015

Total vehicle sales in South Africa surged 24.3% year-on-year to 54,700 units in September 2025, the highest figure for that month since 2015. Sales of new passenger cars jumped 28% to 38,603 units, its highest level since October 2014. Domestic sales of light commercial vehicles rose 19.7% to 13,078 units, heavy trucks and buses advanced 5.9% to 2,252 units, while medium trucks slipped 1.9% to 767 units. Vehicle exports jumped 32.9% year-on-year to 38,772 units. "Year-to-date exports are 6% higher than in 2024, underscoring industry resilience despite global supply chain disruptions and US automotive tariffs.", Naamsa said. The president of the industry group noted that domestic new vehicle sales are on track to surpass pre-pandemic levels for the first time in five years, supported by strong consumer demand for affordable cars.