Toyota officially has the most affordable car in South Africa – For a limited time

Toyota is currently running a promotional discount on the Vitz hatchback, reducing its asking price by R20,000.

This means the entry-level Vitz 1.0, which usually has a starting price of R189,900, can be bought right now for R169,900, putting it neck-and-neck with the Suzuki S-Presso for the title of the cheapest car in South Africa.

The discount applies to all three derivatives of the hatchback, as shown in the table below:

This also means the Vitz is noticeably cheaper than its architectural twin, the Suzuki Celerio, which currently retails from R183,900.

The discounted price is shown on the company’s finance calculator. However, the Kinto subscription service, which allows users to lease Toyota vehicles long-term, is not included in the promotion.

Toyota has not stated when the deal assistance plan will end.

What you get

Toyota’s Vitz is powered by a 1.0-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol engine that produces 49kW and 89Nm.

It can be paired with either a five-speed manual or automated-manual (AMT) transmission, depending on the model, with fuel consumption working out to 4.4l/100km or 4.2l/100km, respectively, thanks to the inclusion of stop-start technology.

Regarding equipment, the hatchback comes standard with 14-inch steel wheels, a full-sized spare wheel, halogen headlights, a 295-litre boot, ABS, two front airbags, a multifunction steering wheel, rear park distance control, fabric upholstery, manual air conditioning, and two speakers, though you will need to install a radio at an additional cost.

Upgrading to the XR will then add 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, electric side mirrors, remote central locking, electric windows, a USB port, two more speakers for a total of four, and a 7-inch infotainment screen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Each purchase also includes a 3-year/100,000km warranty and a 2-service/30,000km service plan.