SA’s Top Six Car Brands Fall Under 50% Market Share Amidst Chinese Growth

## Overview of Light-Vehicle Brands in South Africa

The leading light-vehicle brands in South Africa during the year 2000 were Toyota, Volkswagen, Nissan, Opel, Mazda, and Ford. These brands dominated the market, holding approximately 60% to 70% of sales, according to data from Lightstone Auto.

### Market Trends from 2010 to 2023

From 2010 to 2020, the combined market share of these six brands began to decline, settling at around 50% by 2023. Projections indicate that by 2024, their market share may dip below the 50% mark.

## The Rise of New Brands in the Market

One key factor for this decline is the emergence of numerous new brands and products from Asia, particularly from countries like India, Korea, and China. The presence of brands such as Chery, Omoda, Jetour, JAC, and Beijing has significantly reshaped the market dynamics.

### Growth of New Entrants

Data analyst Andrew Hibbert from Lightstone Auto notes that these newcomers have rapidly grown from 0.5% market share in Q2 2022 to 10% by the end of 2025. They attract consumers with modern technology, competitive pricing, and extensive warranties, transitioning from niche players to mainstream competitors.

Hibbert also points out that Chery’s market share in 2025 is expected to surpass the combined share of Nissan, Mazda, and Opel.

## Shifting Consumer Preferences

Alongside the influx of new entrants, consumer preferences have shifted among traditional brands. While Toyota, Volkswagen, and Ford remain in the top six, the lineup now includes Suzuki, Isuzu, and Renault, replacing Nissan, Opel, and Mazda.

### Stability Among Established Brands

Despite changes in brand presence, the combined market share of Toyota, Volkswagen, and Ford has remained stable, fluctuating between 40% and 50%. This resilience is notable, especially for Ford, which no longer targets the high-volume and budget-friendly segments.

### Decline of Former Market Leaders

The brands that have exited the top six—Nissan, Opel, and Mazda—have experienced a significant drop in market share, plummeting from 24% in 2000 to a mere 3% in 2025.