Cars.co.za report offers interesting insights
Cars.co.za recently launched Industry Report 2026 at its DealerCon summit, offers insight into the forces shaping South Africa’s vehicle market.
- Dealer News
- 22 September 2026
The automotive business council, naamsa, recently released the 2023 new vehicle statistics and for the fourth consecutive year, Mercedes-Benz Trucks claimed the market leader position for heavy commercial vehicles, reaffirming why the Mercedes-Benz Actros won the naamsa Extra-Heavy Commercial Vehicle of the Year award in 2023 in South Africa.
The Actros range for construction and distribution, significantly grew its unit sales in 2023 compared with the previous year. This once again indicates that the construction industry is regaining momentum and that the Actros, which is focusing on reduced maintenance costs for customers, is a force to be reckoned with.
“In a market where customers are spoilt for choice, we are beyond being grateful for our customers who trust Mercedes-Benz Trucks to support their businesses. We are positive that the heavy commercial vehicle market will remain strong, and we look forward to further serving our customers in 2024,” says Maretha Gerber, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Daimler Truck Southern Africa.
In addition, Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) and its brands, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, FUSO Trucks and Mercedes-Benz Buses, remain the largest Commercial Vehicle seller in South Africa, ranking number 1 in the Top 15, according to naamsa’s Industry New Vehicle Sales Report, December 2023.
Car recalls often raise concern among owners, but the National Automobile Dealers' Association (NADA) says recall campaigns show that manufacturers are accountable and committed to quality, safety and customer care.
Affordability is driving a structural shift in South Africa’s vehicle market, with SUVs gaining significant ground as consumers increasingly seek competitively priced, well-equipped vehicles.
South Africa’s used car market continued to grow during the first half of 2026, despite pressure on household budgets and a 25 basis point interest rate increase in May.