Major car brand opens at one of South Africa’s largest township shopping malls

Hyundai has opened a new first-of-its-kind automotive hub at Jabulani Mall in Soweto, one of the largest township shopping malls in South Africa.

The South Korean automaker’s local division said that the move is a bold vote of confidence in Soweto’s economy and its people, challenging the long-held perception that major automotive brands belong only in suburban shopping centres. 

Jabulani Mall features over 100 stores, making it an important retail destination for residents in the country’s largest township.

Known as the Hyundai Hub, the new outlet allows customers to view the carmaker’s selection of hatchbacks, crossovers, and SUVs while engaging with salespersons.

They can also access finance services, with consultant staff on hand to explain the buying and financing process in local languages.

The brand noted that it is important to have local language assistance to help motorists understand their options and remove the ambiguity that can sometimes accompany vehicle finance.

“That localisation, as well as the removal of unnecessary barriers from the vehicle-buying process, is central to the proposition,” said Darren Naidoo, Dealer Principal of Hyundai Jabulani Mall. 

“Customers can explore the range, discuss their requirements and have the finance process explained in a language they are comfortable with.  Where all requirements are met and finance is approved, potentially they drive away with the vehicle the same day.”

The CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa, Stanley Anderson, said the investment is about recognizing a community that has supported the brand for years.

“Potential Hyundai customers should not, for example, have to catch a taxi out of Soweto simply to experience a vehicle or buy a car in the city,” he said.

“Soweto has supported and embraced the Hyundai brand for many years.  The best way to demonstrate our appreciation is to bring the brand experience closer to them.”

Simphiwe Zondo, Marketing Manager of Jabulani Mall, welcomed the launch of the Hyundai Hub, saying it was an important step for the retail sector. 

“Township malls have evolved into important economic centres.  Hyundai’s investment recognises the importance of bringing high-value products closer to our consumers.”

Hyundai in South Africa

Hyundai is one of South Africa’s most popular car brands, regularly appearing in the top five in each month’s industry sales stats alongside Toyota, Suzuki, VW, and Ford.

In July 2026, Hyundai sold 3,058 vehicles, putting it ahead of brands like Chery, GWM, Isuzu, BMW, and Mercedes.

Hyundai has also proven to be much more popular than Kia, even though the two brands have a lot of overlap.

This is chiefly because Hyundai offers a variety of vehicles across key price groups in South Africa, starting with affordable hatchbacks and crossovers such as the entry-level Grand i10 and Exter.

It also sells the popular i20 hatchback, a B-segment rival to VW Polo, and the Alcazar, one of the country’s cheapest seven-seater SUVs.

Further up the market is the midsize Tucson SUV, followed by the practical Staria people carrier and Hyundai’s flagship vehicle, the Santa Fe.

Hyundai Hub opening at Jabulani Mall