Features / 28 April 2021 / Albert du Toit

What an “average” new car in South Africa looks like

According to credit union TransUnion, the average new vehicle loan amount in South Africa is just over R320,000.

This reflects an increase of 6.5% when compared to the year before, and represents an uptick in vehicles sales – which were severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The increase in the value of the average vehicle loan does not necessarily mean South Africans are driving fancier cars, however.

Annual increases in car prices mean that R320,000 does not buy you a new leather-clad sedan anymore.

It does, however, get you a reliable daily driver that will meet your needs for years to come.

R320,000

This price level is where most manufacturers start to add features to their entry-level vehicles.

You won’t be getting every option imaginable, but you won’t be getting the base model, either.

You can expect infotainment displays and electric windows, an array of safety systems, smartphone connectivity support, and a parking sensor or two – depending on the brand.

Shoppers are also able to select from a range of body styles, including sedans, crossovers and small SUVs, and hatchbacks.

Certain companies even offer bakkies with large load areas in this price bracket.

Using TopAuto Car Prices, we found 10 “average” new vehicles available in South Africa, based on the vehicle finance figure of R320,000.

Click on the price of a vehicle to see its specifications in more detail.