South Africa’s new vehicle market continued its steady recovery last year, delivering consistent month on month growth and renewed confidence across the industry.
In a competitive environment shaped by shifting consumer priorities and the arrival of new global players, one manufacturer once again proved its resilience and scale. Toyota South Africa Motors continued to set the pace, reinforcing its long standing position at the forefront of the local automotive landscape.
With Chinese brands entering the market in growing numbers, supported by broad product ranges, strong warranties and highly competitive pricing, the pressure on established and premium manufacturers has intensified.
Combined with wider economic factors affecting consumer purchasing power, these conditions have made recent years challenging for many players. Despite this, Toyota managed not only to defend its position but to strengthen it.
Toyota South Africa recorded total sales of 148 124 units last year, marking its best annual performance since 2007. Industry wide, total new vehicle sales reached approximately 596 818 units in 2025, the highest level since 2015, when volumes last exceeded the 600 000 unit mark.
By year end, Toyota secured an overall market share of 24.8 percent, translating into average monthly sales of more than 12 340 units across all segments. This performance was driven by a robust local manufacturing base, spearheaded by South Africa’s best-selling vehicle, the Toyota Hilux, which achieved total sales of 36 525 units for the year.
Other locally produced models also delivered impressive results. The Corolla Cross recorded sales of 22 191 units, while the Fortuner added a further 9 049 units. All three vehicles are produced at Toyota’s Prospecton Plant in KwaZulu Natal. The locally assembled Hiace Taxi further strengthened Toyota’s standing in the people mover segment, with annual sales reaching 6 815 units.
Across the passenger and light commercial vehicle segments, Toyota maintained a commanding lead, selling 92 997 passenger vehicles and 51 005 light commercial vehicles. The company also delivered solid results in the commercial vehicle categories, with 2 689 medium commercial vehicles and 1 433 heavy commercial vehicles sold during the year.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.
