Of the 262 281 new light vehicles (passenger cars and light commercial vehicles) that were imported to South Africa in 2021, a staggering 49.3%, came from India.
The remaining portion was imported from 23 other countries, including Japan, China and Germany.
Imports of these vehicles increased from 203 572 units in 2020 to 262 281 units in 2021 – an increase of 28.8%.
Passenger car imports accounted for 78.3% of the total passenger car sales of 340 340 units, while light commercial vehicle imports accounted for 18.1% of total light commercial vehicle sales of 133 078 units.
In the resulting competition between imported and locally manufactured vehicles, South African consumers were the winners as they were spoiled for choice at competitive prices.
The top counties of origin for vehicles imported into South Africa were:
1. India (Tata, Mahindra)
2. Japan (Honda, Toyota, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Datsun, Subaru, Nissan, Mazda, Lexus)
3. China (Baic, Haval, Foton)
4. Germany (Peugeot, Smart, Renault, BMW, Jaguar, Audi, Volvo, Porsche, Mercedes Benz, Fiat, Mini, Alfa Romeo, Land Rover
The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) has announced the long-awaited semi-finalists for the 40th edition of the prestigious 2026 Car of the Year (COTY) competition, held annually since 1986.
Morocco is gearing up to enhance its maritime infrastructure with two new deepwater ports, a move that could transform the country into a regional industrial powerhouse.
As the holiday season approaches and many families prepare for long journeys, OMODA and JAECOO South Africa are offering a complimentary 15-minute Holiday Vehicle Health Check to help ensure every trip is a safe one.
Advertisement
Advertisement
You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do.
Henry Ford
The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) has announced the long-awaited semi-finalists for the 40th edition of the prestigious 2026 Car of the Year (COTY) competition, held annually since 1986.
Morocco is gearing up to enhance its maritime infrastructure with two new deepwater ports, a move that could transform the country into a regional industrial powerhouse.
As the holiday season approaches and many families prepare for long journeys, OMODA and JAECOO South Africa are offering a complimentary 15-minute Holiday Vehicle Health Check to help ensure every trip is a safe one.
