Kia’s Tasman bakkie arrives in South Africa
Kia has taken a bold step into one of South Africa’s most competitive automotive segments with the launch of the Tasman, its first-ever double cab bakkie.
- Product News
- 9 April 2026
With the local automotive market’s consistent growth, month after month last year, one brand is not giving up a piece of its sales cake slice.
You have guessed it, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM).
With the flood gates open and Chinese brands pouring into the country with good product ranges, class leading warranties and service plans, and above all, very competitive prices. This and other factors affecting potential customers purchasing power resulted in difficult years for the local motor industry with legacy and premium brands struggling to keep their market share.
Against this backdrop, Toyota South Africa recorded total sales of 148 124 units last year, representing its best annual performance since 2007. Industry-wide, total new vehicle sales reached approximately 596 818 units in 2025 which is the highest level since 2015, when sales exceeded the 600 000-unit mark.
Toyota closed the year with an overall market share of 24.8%, translating to average monthly sales of more than 12 340 units across all segments. This performance was underpinned by a strong local manufacturing base, led by South Africa’s best-selling vehicle, the Toyota Hilux, which achieved total sales of 36 525 units for the year.
Other locally produced models also delivered standout results. The Corolla Cross recorded sales of 22 191 units, while the Fortuner contributed 9 049 units, with all three vehicles produced at Toyota’s Prospecton Plant in KwaZulu-Natal. The locally assembled Hiace Taxi further strengthened Toyota’s position in the people-mover segment, achieving annual sales of 6 815 units.
Across the passenger and light commercial vehicle segments, Toyota maintained a commanding lead, selling 92 997 passenger vehicles and 51 005 light commercial vehicles during the year. The company also delivered solid performances in the commercial vehicle categories, with sales of 2 689 medium commercial vehicles and 1 433 heavy commercial vehicles.
Kia has taken a bold step into one of South Africa’s most competitive automotive segments with the launch of the Tasman, its first-ever double cab bakkie.
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