Latest news with #SuzukiSwift
TimesLIVE
9 hours ago
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
May figures: the best selling cars in SA
May's new vehicle market registered 45,308 sales against the 37,139 retailed in the same month last year. It was the eighth month in a row that sales have outperformed those of a year earlier. After five months of 2025, the market is 12.6% ahead of the same stage of 2024, up from 205,771 to 231,719 units. Brandon Cohen, chair of the National Automobile Dealers' Association (Nada), thinks the real market is stronger than it appears as 12 of the 24 Chinese brands selling vehicles here don't report their sales numbers. Lebo Gaoaketse, head of marketing and communication at WesBank, was cautiously enthusiastic about the figures. 'First quarter sales performed better by volume while displaying slower growth, indicating that the month was a solid volume performance rather than an overriding reason to celebrate,' he said. 'While volumes continue to be confidence-inspiring, household budgets remain under pressure,' said Gaoaketse. 'The market's expected slow recovery is continuing to play catch-up, but the industry should remain vigilant and will continue to have to drive innovative reasons to continue attracting consumer and business decisions to purchase new vehicles.' Toyota remained the country's best-selling brand in May by a considerable margin, selling 10,330 units, and the brand had nine cars in the top 30 sellers. Suzuki was in second place (5,536) ahead of Volkswagen (4,582), Hyundai (3,251) and Ford (2,932). The most popular vehicle was again the Toyota Hilux, with the rival Ford Ranger in second place. In third, and the best-selling passenger car, was the Suzuki Swift. Toyota's Corolla Cross was fourth overall. The best-selling Chinese car remained the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro (eighth overall) ahead of the Haval Jolion (10th). TOP 30 SELLERS - MAY 2025 Toyota Hilux - 2,548 Ford Ranger - 2,147 Suzuki Swift - 1,842 Toyota Corolla Cross - 1,629 VW Polo Vivo - 1,543 Isuzu D-Max - 1,473 Hyundai Grand i10 - 1,350 Chery Tiggo 4 Pro - 1,255 Suzuki Fronx - 1,219 Haval Jolion - 1,113 Toyota Starlet - 1,039 Kia Sonet - 863 Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up - 786 VW Polo - 767 Suzuki Ertiga - 721 Toyota Starlet Cross - 694 VW T-Cross - 686 Toyota Fortuner - 679 Toyota Vitz - 624 Toyota Rumion - 618 Toyota Hi-Ace - 583 Mahindra XUV 3XO - 532 Omoda C5 - 525 Toyota Urban Cruiser - 517 Renault Kiger - 492 Chery Tiggo 7 Pro - 439 Nissan Magnite - 437 Hyundai i20 - 399 Renault Kwid - 393 Nissan Navara - 389
The Citizen
a day ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
New vehicle sales extended winning streak for a fifth time in May
An even-split between locally made and imported products within the top 10 models saw offset for the month inch closer to 50 000 unit sales for the first time since March. The Toyota Hilux kept its record intact as the country's best-selling new vehicle and bakkie in May. Image: Toyota South Africa's new vehicle sales showed no let-up with a fifth increase in as many months in May, and the eighth overall since October last year. Hilux and Ranger dominate 2 000+ club In a repeat of April, the Toyota Hilux ended May as the country's best-seller with an offset of 2 458 units, but this time chased by its arch rival, the Ford Ranger, whose 2 147 saw it swap places with the Suzuki Swift that finished third on 1 842. Completing the top-five, the Toyota Corolla Cross retained its fourth place from April with sales of 1 629, this time followed by the Volkswagen Polo Vivo on 1 543. ALSO READ: Toyota Hilux and Suzuki Swift lead new vehicle sales in April Having exchanged places with the Vivo, the Hyundai Grand i10 ranked sixth with 1 537, followed by the Isuzu D-Max on 1 473 and the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro on 1 255. Rounding off an even split been locally made and imported vehicles, the Suzuki Fronx raked-in sales of 1 219 to finish ninth, and the GWM Haval Jolion 1 113 to complete the top 10. Month in detail Having lost some ground from the 50 000 mark in April after moving 42 401 units versus March's 49 493, the May figures from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) registered a year-on-year increase of 22% from 37 139 in 2024, to 45 308 in 2025. Out of the respective segments, only exports ended in the red with a downturn of 14.6% from 35 277 to 30 112. By contrast, new passenger vehicle sales emerged as the biggest highlight with an increase of 30% from last year's 24 419 to 31 741. After picking-up momentum in April following three months of consecutive decreases, light commercial vehicles posted a second uptick in May with an increase of 5.8% from 10 337 to 10 938. Equally, medium-duty commercial vehicle sales rose 22.7% to 660 from 538, while heavy-duty truck and bus sales improved by 6.7% from 1 845 to 1 969. In total, dealer sales made-up 88.4% or 45 038 vehicles sold, with the rest being split up as follows: Rental agencies: 6.8%; Corporate Fleets: 3.0%; Government: 1.8% Naamsa upbeat 'The South African Reserve Bank decision to cut the repo rate by 25 basis points signalled a welcome policy pivot in support of industrial growth, affordability, and macro-economic stability,' Naamsa said. 'The move, which followed a cautious policy hold in March, is widely welcomed by the industry – particularly by Naamsa, as we had previously advocated for an easing in monetary policy to help cushion the sector from escalating global and domestic risks'. In the same statement, Naamsa CEO, Mikel Mabasa, said, 'the reserve bank's latest decision to lower interest rates is both timely and commendable. 'It directly supports consumer affordability and boosts production competitiveness at a time when global uncertainty is weighing heavily on our export markets. While the new tariff measures remain a concern, our industry has proven its resilience time and time again'. Commenting on the finally passed budget speech by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana last month, Naamsa added, 'the reserve bank's policy action demonstrated that price stability and growth need not be mutually exclusive. 'The combination of responsible fiscal management and cautious monetary easing creates room for counter-cyclical support to the real economy, particularly in high-multiplier industries such as automotive manufacturing'. The association further stated,' with inflation easing to 2.8%, still well below the 3%-6% target range, and the Rand regaining strength, the macro-economic environment became more conducive to supporting consumer spending and business investment. 'For South Africa's automotive manufacturing base, the implications of the cut extend beyond retail credit conditions. 'Lower interest rates will reduce borrowing costs for manufacturing, supporting planned capital expenditure, tooling upgrades, and retooling for new models'. Top 10 marques Out of the top 10 best-selling brands, the first eight places remained unchanged from April, with Toyota placing first on 10 330, Suzuki second on 5 536 and Volkswagen third on 4 582. Hyundai stayed steady in fourth with 3 351, with Ford finishing fifth on 2 932 and GWM sixth on 2 059. Chery, meanwhile, kept its seventh place on 1 995 ahead of eighth place Isuzu (1 961), with Mahindra jumping a notch to ninth on 1 524 at the expense of Renault, who departs from the top 10. Returning for the first time since February, Kia ended May in 10th place on 1 406. May Top 50 Best-Sellers Toyota Hilux – 2 548 Ford Ranger – 2 147 Suzuki Swift – 1 842 Toyota Corolla Cross – 1 629 Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 1 543 Hyundai Grand i10 – 1 537 Isuzu D-Max – 1 473 Chery Tiggo 4 Pro – 1 255 Suzuki Fronx – 1 219 GWM Haval Jolion – 1 113 Toyota Starlet – 1 039 Kia Sonet – 870 Mahindra Pik Up – 786 Volkswagen Polo – 767 Suzuki Ertiga – 721 Toyota Starlet Cross – 694 Volkswagen T-Cross – 686 Toyota Fortuner – 679 Toyota Vitz – 624 Toyota Rumion – 618 Toyota HiAce – 617 Nissan Magnite – 570 Mahindra XUV 3X0 – 534 Omoda C5 – 525 Toyota Urban Cruiser – 517 Renault Kiger – 492 Chery Tiggo 7 Pro – 439 Hyundai i20 – 399 Renault Kwid – 393 Nissan Navara – 389 Jetour Dashing – 377 Suzuki Baleno – 371 Hyundai Exter – 368 Toyota Land Cruiser 70-series – 365 GWM P-Series – 348 Renault Triber – 308 Ford Everest – 303 Suzuki Jimny – 300 Volkswagen Amarok – 282 Haval H6 – 281 Ford Territory – 274 Volkswagen Tiguan – 263 Jetour X70 Plus – 243 Suzuki Eeco – 239 Beijing X55 Plus – 234 Hyundai Venue – 220 Citroën C3 Aircross – 217 Foton Tunland G7 – 216 Kia Seltos – 209 Citroën C3 – 192 NOW READ: D-Max surprises as bakkies take top three March new vehicle sales
Daily Maverick
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Daily Maverick
The true price of owning a car
Most prospective buyers of a vehicle tend to focus on its purchase price when figuring out if it's affordable. But there are many other factors to consider because they will inflate your monthly costs. Having recently bought a new car, I've found it quite a big adjustment getting used to a vehicle loan instalment going off my bank account after not having to pay one for eight years. That said, buying a car is about so much more than its financing. I found WesBank's recent calculations about car ownership costs incredibly helpful. These calculations look at the estimated total monthly expenses associated with owning and maintaining one of the top-selling hatchbacks locally. The data also shows how the total cost of ownership has changed over time. 'Despite the recent improvement in passenger car sales, South Africa remains a price-sensitive market,' says Lebo Gaoaketse, head of marketing and communication at WesBank. 'This means when they decide to buy a car, new or used, most buyers base their decision primarily on the purchase price. But it's important to look beyond just that and consider the total cost of ownership, which is influenced by several other factors.' Cost breakdown For a mid-range hatchback with a retail price of about R294,000, including VAT, you can expect to pay an estimated monthly instalment of R5,554.80. Cars in this price range include the Volkswagen Polo Vivo 1.4 Comfortline, Kia Picanto 1.2 EX manual, Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX, Toyota Starlet 1.5 XS and the Fiat 500 Cult. The instalment is influenced by the interest rate linked to the vehicle financing contract, which in turn is influenced by factors such as your credit score and the loan term. It's important to note that the interest rate will vary between customers, depending on their credit profile. Insurance options If you're financing your car through a bank, insurance is compulsory before you drive it off the showroom floor. But even if your vehicle is not financed, insurance protects you against losses that might result from an accident or theft. Insurance premiums vary depending on factors such as the make and model of the car, as well as the driver's history and location. For the model in question, a comprehensive insurance premium of R1,827.24 monthly can be expected. It's worth noting that even if you have comprehensive insurance, the amount you owe the bank includes interest and is usually significantly more than the value of the car, especially in the first four years of ownership. Credit shortfall insurance is a valuable add-on to your policy. I made a point of letting my family know that I had taken this option in case I end up dying in a car accident, because I wouldn't want them stressing about the debt. Nor would I want to be stuck paying off the debt if my car is written off. Fuel costs Fuel is one of the largest recurring expenses for car owners. Gaoaketse recommends that you estimate your monthly fuel costs, determine your car's fuel consumption rate and the distance you travel each month. The average monthly fuel costs for the vehicle in this scenario are R3,902.50. This is where your choice of car can make a massive difference. Although I didn't have a car instalment previously, I was forking out between R4,000 and R6,000 a month on fuel – the 'perk' of living two hours away from the city. Swapping my gas-guzzling SUV for a hybrid car has been an absolute game-changer, and the difference at the fuel pumps still astounds me two months later. Continuing maintenance Routine maintenance is important to ensure the safe and reliable operation of your vehicle. In the WesBank example, you could expect to pay in the region of R475.75 per month, or R5,709 annually, for running costs, including routine maintenance and general upkeep. Total monthly mobility costs When combining the monthly instalment, fuel, insurance and running costs, the total monthly cost for one of the bestselling hatchbacks in South Africa comes to R11,760.29 – marginally higher than the average total cost of ownership in 2024, which was R11,578.70 per month. Historical data Reviewing historical data, the increase in the total cost of vehicle ownership becomes apparent. For instance, because of vehicle price inflation, the estimated monthly instalment for the study model has jumped from R2,417.03 in 2012 to R5,554.80 in 2025. Insurance premiums have increased from R802.66 to R1,827.24 over the same period, and fuel costs have ballooned from R1,856.75 to about R3,902.50 per month. 'Viewing the cost of vehicle ownership from this perspective is important and underscores the need to objectively and honestly evaluate one's affordability level before signing a long-term vehicle finance contract to ensure a fulfilling vehicle ownership experience,' says Gaoaketse. DM PS the numbers in this story were hypothetical and not what Neesa Moodley is paying for her car.
The Citizen
5 days ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Suzuki SA upgrades local HQ and distribution centre
Since its return to the South African market in 2008, Suzuki Auto South Africa has been experiencing immense growth, with the local arm of the Japanese automaker having secured its place as one of SA's top-three best-selling car brands. Looking for a new or used Suzuki? Find it here with CARmag! Now, in a bid to improve upon its local operations and support future growth, Suzuki has invested in a brand-new head office and distribution centre, scheduled to be completed mid-2026. Related: Top 12 Best Buys 2025: Company of the Year – Suzuki Auto South Africa Indeed, come next year, Suzuki Auto SA will move offices, from its current, Linbro Business Park-based headquarters to a 'custom-designed', 24 507m² facility, which will include 2 900m² of office space and 19 100m² of warehousing, in Longlake Logistics Park in Gauteng. The firm's new SA headquarters will also feature such amenities as boardrooms, training facilities and a workshop, to name but a few. Related: Top 12 Best Buys 2025: Budget Car – Suzuki Swift Vice-president and CFO of Suzuki Auto SA Berto van der Lith says: 'This move marks a significant chapter in our journey. Our new headquarters will allow for further improvements in our current operations and support the growth we foresee in the coming years.' Leasing consultant at Fortress Marguerite Oosthuizen adds: 'We set out to deliver more than just warehouse space for Suzuki. It was about creating a tailored, future-focused facility that embodies the brand, supports its people and enables bold, sustainable growth.' Looking for your next new or used vehicle? Find it here with CARmag! The post Suzuki SA Upgrades Local HQ and Distribution Centre appeared first on CAR Magazine.
7NEWS
5 days ago
- 7NEWS
Gunman identified, faces 30 charges after Queensland town lockdown
A 25-year-old man is facing 30 charges following an alleged shooting incident which sparked a 10-hour police manhunt that forced parts of a small Queensland town into lockdown. Detectives alleged Luke Ralston fired multiple rounds into a house on Arthur Street in the early hours of Wednesday morning, before fleeing the scene. Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today Police were called to the residential property in the rural town of 10,000 residents shortly before 4am following reports of gunshots. Officers found visible bullet holes in the exterior walls of the targeted house. 'A number of people were able to leave the property safely prior to police arrival,' Queensland Police said in a statement. The police alleged the South-Burnett man fled the scene, believed to be armed and travelling in a black Suzuki Swift with false number plates displaying 551GE9. A large-scale manhunt ensued, with access to Kingaroy Hospital restricted and nearby schools, including Saint Mary's Catholic College, placed into lockdown or advised to close as a precaution. The dramatic search ended 10 hours later, at about 1.30pm, when Ralston was arrested on Foleys Road at Goodger, about 15 minutes south of Kingaroy. Police allege Ralston was in possession of five stolen high-powered rifles and a machete, which were seized from a red Subaru he allegedly stole while attempting to evade authorities. Ralston has been charged with a string of offences, including acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm, dangerous conduct with a weapon, dangerous driving, and stealing. No injuries were reported during the incident. Police Ralston's case was mentioned at Kingaroy Magistrates Court on Thursday and has been adjourned until August 8.
