Buyers look beyond sticker price in car purchases
South African car buyers are increasingly considering the full cost of ownership rather than focusing solely on the showroom price or monthly instalment.
- Dealer News
- 12 September 2026
The fourth generation of one of Renault’s bestsellers, the Trafic panel van, is set to launch in South Africa.
The latest model of the Trafic, which was born in 1980, will boast a noticeably improved exterior, improved technology and clever storage options. Renault SA has thus far retailed two generations of the Trafic, with 555 units sold.
The van, which is manufactured in Sandouville, Normandy (France), features a completely new front face, a new radio antenna and new 16-inch wheels as well as a completely redesigned interior.
It also offers power adjustable mirrors, comfortable upholstery and new door panels with wider armrests. By folding down the backrest on the middle seat, the cabin turns into a mobile office, with enough space for a laptop and an A4-sized swivel stand to easily hold any working documents. The folding backrest of the central seat makes for added convenience. In terms of storage, the cabin is full of smart solutions, including the new Easy Life drawer, accommodating 88 litres – 54 of which are located under the passenger bench seat.
The new Trafic has adopted a 2.0L Turbo Diesel engine (dCi 170), which is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and is equipped with ECO Mode, which offers overall improved fuel efficiency.
The van has a cargo volume of 8.9 m3 and is available in two colour variants: Ice Cool White (Non-Metallic) and Cumulus Blue (Non-Metallic).
Local sales of the new Trafic will commence in late November 2022 and it will retail at R 599 999.
South African car buyers are increasingly considering the full cost of ownership rather than focusing solely on the showroom price or monthly instalment.
A striking collection of Alfa Romeo vehicles, spanning immaculate classics to the latest performance models, will gather at Modderfontein Bird & Sculpture Park on Sunday 20 September for the 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza.
Kia South Africa has launched an upgraded Sonet range, with more safety, technology, and comfort across the line-up, backed by a five-year warranty with no kilometre limit.
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Kia South Africa has launched an upgraded Sonet range, with more safety, technology, and comfort across the line-up, backed by a five-year warranty with no kilometre limit.
Mazda Southern Africa has announced a promotional price for the Mazda2 1.5 Active Manual Transmission, now available from R289 900 making it the most affordable model in the manufacturer’s line-up.
The South African market has seen a surge in specialist six-wheel conversions, with Ulterio Motiv at the forefront. Their latest project, the Maximus 6x6 based on the Jeep Gladiator, demonstrates the adaptability of the Gladiator platform.