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 National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) announced the nationwide roll-out of its new dealership decal programme, designed to empower South African consumers in making confident, informed choices about where to purchase or service their vehicles.
The distinctive NADA decals, prominently displayed at NADA-accredited dealerships, feature a QR code that directs consumers to the NADA website, a comprehensive resource for understanding dealership excellence. The initiative represents a significant step forward in ensuring transparency, professionalism and trust across the automotive industry.
"Trust plays a pivotal role in the current automotive marketplace that’s brimming with options. Choosing a dealership with a proven reputation for trustworthiness ensures a smoother and more satisfying experience, backed by excellent service and professionalism," says Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of NADA.
The decal is a badge of assurance, signalling that the dealership adheres to NADA’s Code of Ethics - a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and consumer focus. By scanning the QR code, customers can access:
NADA represents nearly 1,500 franchised motor dealers nationwide, advocating for transparency and customer satisfaction while ensuring adherence to the Consumer Protection Act and industry standards.
Consumers transacting with NADA members benefit from:
Expert knowledge: NADA members employ staff members who receive continuous, brand-specific training to remain at the forefront of automotive technology and are experts in the brands they offer.
Safety first: OEM-approved parts are used during repairs or servicing, prioritising customer safety and environmental responsibility.
Consumer advocacy: NADA ensures fair and transparent transactions, empowering customers with a framework for recourse should issues arise.
Extensive footprint: With nearly 1,500 accredited dealerships nationwide, NADA offers consumers access to a vast network of trusted dealerships, ensuring reliable service and support are always within reach, no matter where they are in South Africa.
“By introducing this programme, we aim to reassure consumers that they are dealing with reputable dealerships committed to their satisfaction and safety,” explains Thembinkosi Pantsi, NADA’s Vice Chairperson.
Even as digital innovations transform the automotive landscape, physical dealerships remain indispensable for facilitating a hands-on vehicle buying experience. “Trusted dealerships serve as a bridge between consumers and cutting-edge automotive innovations, offering tailored advice and solutions that meet individual needs,” adds Pantsi.
“South Africa boasts dealerships that rival global standards in quality, service and trust. NADA’s decal programme celebrates these leaders in automotive retail, strengthening the relationship between consumers and dealers while ensuring a seamless, transparent car-buying journey,” concludes Cohen.
Cars.co.za recently launched Industry Report 2026 at its DealerCon summit, offers insight into the forces shaping South Africa’s vehicle market.
Nissan has introduced the Tekton, a new compact SUV for the South African market. The model is built on the Renault‑Nissan alliance’s CMF‑B platform and is closely related to the Renault Duster, sharing engines and mechanical components.
At the recent DealerCon 2026, hosted by Cars.co.za automotive excellence was celebrated by honouring top executives in the automotive retails industry.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
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.