At the southernmost point of the African continent, South Africa is a colourful and diversified nation with a strong automotive industry that offers a variety of options for auto aficionados. A flexible fleet of vehicles is necessary due to the nation’s distinctive mix of urban areas, large landscapes, and long-distance transport. As a result, the top ten best-selling cars in South Africa in 2023 combine practicality, affordability, and style to meet the wide range of demands of the country’s populace. The best-selling tiny hatchbacks are frequently those that are small, fuel-efficient, and practical for city dwellers. There is something for everyone in this dynamic automotive industry since the top ten best-selling cars in South Africa 2023, which provide alternatives ranging from small hatchbacks to tough SUVs, represent the different demands and interests of the country’s population.
Number 10:
2023 Nissan NP200
Total Units sold in 2023: 1,064 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 225,700 est.
- Manufacturer: Nissan
- Layout: FWD
- Body Style: 2-door Single Cab
- Seating Capacity: 2 Passengers
- Engine: 1.6-litre 8-valve gasoline engine
- Horsepower: 85 hp
- Torque: 94.4 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 Gal.
The 2023 Nissan Np 200 stands at number 10 in the series of top 10 best-selling cars in South-Africa. The NP200 exudes a no-nonsense demeanour while easily fusing utilitarian toughness with contemporary elegance. The NP200’s load box has a class-leading payload, volume, and length and can accommodate almost any load. Additionally, its specially constructed tailboard has a 300 kg weight capacity, a feature often found on much larger bakkies. The NP200 is designed for the best load-carrying performance, just like its predecessor. Because of this, it has the highest segment payload of 800 kg and the largest load box volume of 1.26 m3. Even a rubberized surface is included as standard. The cab protector roll bar, which is an option, offers the NP200 a tougher, more prepared appearance in addition to adding a level of safety. The roll bar can be utilised as additional tie-down points to further secure your load. By applying the brakes more quickly than you could in instances requiring rapid stopping, the Anti-lock stopping System (ABS) aids in preventing wheel lockup and enables you to steer around obstacles to avoid a collision. The NP200 has a gorgeous appearance, but not to thieves. This is so that your vehicle will know it belongs to you, thanks to the anti-theft system we installed.
Number 9:
2023 Volkswagen Polo
Total Units sold in 2023: 1,153 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 337,700 est.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen
- Layout: FWD
- Body Style: 5-door Hatchback
- Seating Capacity: 5 Passengers
- Engine: 2.0L TURBO 4 engine
- Horsepower: 94 hp
- Torque: 129 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.6 Gal.
Other compact vehicles want to be as good as the 2023 Volkswagen Polo because supercity automobiles have always made it their star. sleek and practical in regular use. The Volkswagen Polo is undoubtedly the most comfortable little car, despite not being the most thrilling. It’s a cute small automobile that’s inexpensive and agile to drive. Additionally, it has an extra touch of luxury because it bears the Volkswagen logo on its nose. With the Polo’s pre-facelift generation, Volkswagen already had one of the standard light car interiors, so little needed to be changed to keep it there. The cabin saw less significant alterations during the mid-life upgrade than the exterior, which had already undergone a number of modest adjustments. Volkswagen’s redesigned steering wheel replaces the GTI’s cumbersome touch-capacitive multifunction controls, and it sits in front of an improved 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro virtual instrument cluster. Tick. The 8.0-inch touchscreen that is elegantly incorporated into the dashboard fascia is driven by the brand’s most recent infotainment system, and as tested with the optional Sound & Tech Package, it comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as DAB+ radio and embedded navigation. It all comes together to create a posh, technologically advanced experience that is unquestionably among the best in its class. The 2023 Volkswagen Polo stands at number 9 in the series of top 10 best-selling cars in South Africa.
Number 8:
2023 Suzuki Swift
Total Units sold in 2023: 1,349 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 199,900 est.
- Manufacturer: Suzuki
- Layout: FWD
- Body Style: 5-door Hatchback
- Seating Capacity: 5 Passengers
- Engine: 1.2-litre four-cylinder mild hybrid petrol engine
- Horsepower: 83 hp
- Torque: 88.5 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 9.7 Gal.
Swift is a subcompact car made by Suzuki, a Japanese automaker. The Suzuki Swift 2023 is standing at number 8 in the series of top-10 best-selling cars in SA. It is bolder and more streamlined than previous models, and it comes standard with halogen multi-reflector headlamps in GL variants and LED Projection headlamps in GLX variants. In this variation, the headlamps are automated and may be equipped with headlamp levelling devices. The car’s front end features a large hexagonal grille with an interior lining of chrome. DRLs are added to the GL variation, positioned on the bumper, while the GLX model has DRLs built into the headlamps. The GLX version of the rearview camera is also available to customers. The cabin of the new Suzuki Swift 2023 is created to provide riders with plenty of room and comfort. The front and back seats of the dryer both include headrests and a height-adjustable seat. All of these car models have power electronic steering and tilt adjustment, and the GLX variant also has telescopic adjustment. This car’s top model incorporates steering switches for audio control. Behind the steering wheel, customers can discover manual tachometers and fuel metres with lights. All Suzuki Swift models come standard with a 9-inch infotainment system, and there are additional features including air conditioning, power windows, keyless entry, central door locking, and light off and key reminder. A smart trunk opening, cruise control, and keyless push start are features of the GLX model, and sports mode is an addition to both variants.
Number 7:
2023 Toyota Starlet
Total Units sold in 2023: 1,372 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 254,800 est.
- Manufacturer: Toyota
- Layout: FWD
- Body Style: 5-door Hatchback
- Seating Capacity: 5 Passengers
- Engine: 1.3 litres turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 74 hp
- Torque: 84 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.8 Gal.
Toyota Japan produces the Toyota Starlet, a little car. It is a front-wheel drive vehicle with an engine up front. Its body is a hatchback. A single overhead camshaft provides all of the power for the Toyota Starlet. It is propelled by a 4-cylinder, 1.3-litre turbocharged engine with three valves per cylinder. There is a 5-speed manual gearbox in the Toyota Starlet. The most recent Toyota Starlet has a clever design. Its appealing appearance is due to the redesigned grill and front bumper. Compared to other vehicles of this sort, it offers a spacious interior. It has every piece of equipment that one would anticipate finding in a vintage car. The 1.5-litre petrol engine, up from the previous 1.4 litres, is agile and more potent in the new and upgraded Toyota Starlet. The 1.5L direct-injection petrol engine in the Starlet is easy to drive and offers the best fuel efficiency. There is always room for fun with the 314-litre boot, you can bet. The conventional hatchback profile is followed in the exterior design, and the end result is aesthetically pleasing overall. The 2023 Toyota startler stands at number 7 in the list of top-10 most-selling cars in South Africa.
Number 6:
2023 Toyota Hi-Ace
Total Units sold in 2023: 1,581 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 680,900 est.
- Manufacturer: Toyota
- Layout: RWD
- Body Style: 4-door Van
- Seating Capacity: 13 Passengers
- Engine: 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
- Horsepower: 174 hp
- Torque: 309.7 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.4 Gal.
There are no modifications made to the HiAce for 2023 other than the barn doors. Because there was little demand for the V6, turbo-diesel power was added as standard, and it is available in any colour as long as it is white. In 2023, everything that has been positive about it since its debut will still be positive. The LWB vehicle under examination here has a 3120mm wheelbase and measures 5265mm long, 1950mm wide, and 1990mm tall. The LWB has a cargo bay that is 2530 mm long, 1760 mm broad (1268 mm between the arches), and 1340 mm tall, as opposed to 9.3 m3 in the SLWB. The HiAce felt a little sparse due to its metal floors, wooden wall trimmings, and absence of a cargo divider, but it’s important to note that owners will immediately look through the accessory catalogue to prepare their van for whatever work they’re performing. As you might anticipate, access is excellent through the barn doors. When opened to their full 180 degrees, they will hold themselves, but you will need to use a manual strut to lock them into place properly at 90 degrees in small spaces.The 2023 Toyota Hi-Ace is ranked as number 6 in the list of top ten best-selling cars in South Africa.
Number 5:
2023 Isuzu D-Max
Total Units sold in 2023: 1,632 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 799,900 est.
- Manufacturer: Isuzu Motors
- Layout: RWD
- Body Style: 4-door cab chassis
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 3.0L DIESEL TURBO 4 engine
- Horsepower: 188 hp
- Torque: 331 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 Gal.
Since its premiere in 2020, the most recent model D-Max hasn’t altered much at all, with the exception of a few small aesthetic adjustments and minor safety system adjustments. The 2023 range, however, includes three new model variants, a bolder appearance, and practical improvements without altering the tried-and-true formula for the ute’s success. The Isuzu 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine, paired with the same six-speed automatic gearbox, powers the majority of the 2023 lineup, maintaining performance. That’s beneficial because the 3.0-litre’s reputation for invincibility is a key selling point. The changes for 2023 don’t exactly translate into “more value,” but they are all practical upgrades that any customer would value, especially those getting a free upgrade to the new model. The 2023 Izuzu D-Max stands at number 5 in the list of the top ten most-selling cars in South Africa.
Number 4 :
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross
Total Units sold in 2023: 2,130 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 458,300 est.
- Manufacturer: Toyota
- Layout: AWD/FWD
- Body Style: 5-door crossover SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
- Horsepower: 169 hp
- Torque: 151 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 Gal.
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is standing at number 4 in the list of best-selling cars in South Africa. It is both the blessing and the curse of the SUV world. The Cross combines greater functionality with the nameplate’s trademark economy. Unfortunately, it also carries over the forgettable driving manner and mediocre performance of the compact car. The Corolla Cross’s exterior has a little more visual zing thanks to the sportier trims, despite the fact that its look isn’t very unusual. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder base engine only produces 169 horsepower, but a hybrid system is available and adds three electric motors, bringing the total output to 196 horsepower. When choosing an all-wheel drive model, the Corolla Cross’s city and highway mpg ratings drop to 29 and 32, respectively, from 31 and 33 for the front-wheel drive version. The Corolla Cross will feel comfortable to drivers who are used to the Corolla sedan. The four-door model’s dashboard design, interior materials, and convenience amenities are essentially comparable.
Number 3:
2023 Ford Ranger
Total Units sold in 2023: 3,367 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 248,500
- Manufacturer: Ford
- Layout: RWD
- Body Style: 4-door Pickup
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 270 hp
- Torque: 310 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 Gal.
The 2023 Ford Ranger toke 3rd place in the list of top ten most-selling cars in South Africa. The Ranger is viewed as more of a slimmed-down F-150 than a mini-truck and comes with a 270-hp turbocharged inline-four and a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Although it has tremendous power, it doesn’t have the fuel efficiency we’d anticipate from a tiny turbo-four. It has a significant impact with a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds. Despite not being as contemporary as some of its competitors, the Ranger comes standard with rear-wheel drive and offers four-wheel drive as an option. The Ranger can be equipped with either a two-door SuperCab or a four-door SuperCrew with a five-foot bed. All Ranger trucks come standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission that provides quick and fluid changes. Models with four-wheel drive have an 8.9-inch clearance, compared to 8.4 inches for vehicles with rear-wheel drive. The Ranger can be specified with a Terrain Management System, which improves the truck’s performance on different types of terrain by altering elements such as gearbox gearing and engine response.
Number 2:
2023 Volkswagen Polo Vivo
Total Units sold in 2023: 2,452 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 464,200
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen
- Layout: FWD
- Body Style: 5-door Hatchback
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine
- Horsepower: 75 hp
- Torque: 70 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.8 Gal.
The Polo Vivo is here, and it has a range of features that will work for you and your crew. The Polo Vivo has it everything, including front power windows, ISOFIX mounting places for car seats, an ultrasonic alarm, a sleek appearance, and a great sound system. Everyone will want to share the ride with such alluring qualities. More digital features are standard on the Volkswagen Polo Vivo than any other small car in its class. On the Comfortline, an optional Radio 340G with 4 speakers, SD, USB, Bluetooth, and App-Connect is available. The Highline and GT come standard with 6 speakers and all of these features. The redesigned Polo Vivo GT retains the previous model’s turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, which continues to drive the front axle with the same peak outputs of 81 kW and 200 Nm through a 6-speed manual transmission. By synchronising with the infotainment system, App-Connect enables you to access your iPhone/CarPlay screen, particular apps, navigation, and music. The 2023 Volkswagen Polo is standing at number 2 in the series of top 10 best-selling cars in South Africa.
Number 1 :
2023 Toyota Hilux
Total Units sold in 2023: 2,452 (till September)
- MSRP: ∼ R 891,400 est.
- Manufacturer: Toyota
- Layout: AWD/RWD
- Body Style: 4-door Pickup
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
- Horsepower: 221 hp
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 Gal.
- Torque: 405 lb. ft
The 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, which comes with a six-speed automated gearbox, is the most potent engine for the 2023 Toyota Hilux. Between 1600 and 2800 rpm, it produces 500Nm of torque, and at 3400 rpm, it produces 150kW of power. Manual versions have a torque output of 420Nm between 1400 and 3400 rpm. While the new Ford Ranger has recently dominated the news, South Africa’s favourite ute and most popular car overall continues to be the Toyota HiLux. The company has just unveiled its portfolio of 2023 HiLux vehicles, but instead of dramatically altering its workhorse, it has opted to make small specification adjustments and keep on as usual. Blind-spot monitoring LEDs in the side mirrors and rear cross-traffic alert are just two of the driver assistance systems that are already standard on many of the main rivals to the 2023 HiLux. The 2023 Toyota Hilux stands at number 1 in the series of top 10 Most-selling cars in South Africa.
In conclusion, the South African automotive industry offers a wide variety of automobiles, but when it comes to best-selling models, 10 models stand out as having constantly attracted South African drivers’ attention. These best-selling vehicles have become so popular due to a variety of elements, such as dependability, affordability, and flexibility to regional road conditions and buyer preferences. Overall, the top ten best-selling cars in South Africa 2023 exhibit a blend of functionality, excellence, and affordability, representing the many requirements and tastes of the nation’s motorists. These cars continue to rule the market thanks to their robust sales figures, providing South Africans from all walks of life with dependable transportation and entertaining driving experiences.
