March 2025’s Top 5 Cars in South Africa: Fuel Prices Drop, Chinese Brands Rise

March’s new vehicle sales data is in (thanks, Naamsa!*), and while the top five best-sellers haven’t budged from last month, there’s plenty happening under the surface. For starters, fuel prices have taken a welcome dip (finally), making every tank top-up feel a little less painful. Car insurance premiums on the other hand are holding steady - no surprises there.

But rest assured, change is coming, and it’s coming in the form of the rise of Chinese car brands in Mzansi. GWM now ranks 9th on the list of most-sold cars, with Chery hot on its heels at 10th. They may not have cracked the Top 5 just yet, but the momentum is real, and so is the online buzz. More on that in a bit.

First, let’s look at the current Top 5 best-sellers, based on Naamsa and Hippo’s March numbers, plus what it’ll actually cost you to own one.

1. Toyota Corolla: The trusty champ

Toyota’s still sitting pretty in the lead, and for good reason: it’s reliable, safe, and not trying to reinvent the wheel (in a good way). Insurance premiums have barely moved, and with the lower fuel cost this month, it’s even more appealing.

Key costs involved with owning a Toyota Corolla in 2025:

• Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,162
• Cost to fill the tank: R1,076
• Monthly repayment (prime 11%, 60 months, no deposit): R12,158
• Purchase price: R554,700

No frills, no fuss. Just solid value, year after year.

2. Suzuki Swift: The wallet-friendly winner

If you’re budget-conscious (and who isn’t right now?), the Suzuki Swift continues to deliver serious bang for buck. Still sitting comfortably in second place, and now even cheaper to run thanks to that drop in fuel price.

Key costs involved with owning a Suzuki Swift in 2025:

• Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,319
• Cost to fill the tank: R796
• Monthly repayment: R4,876
• Purchase price: R219,900

Affordable to buy, affordable to run. It’s basically the poster child for economic driving.

3. Volkswagen Polo Vivo: The local legend

The Polo Vivo holds its spot (and its value) month after month. With German build quality and a lower sticker price than its Polo sibling, it remains a favourite for drivers wanting that VW feel without the premium price tag.

Key costs involved with owning a Polo Vivo in 2025:

• Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,275
• Cost to fill the tank: R968
• Monthly repayment: R6,007
• Purchase price: R271,900

A car that does what it says on the box: quality, reliability, and decent resale value.

4. Hyundai i20: Quietly consistent

The Hyundai i20 doesn’t shout for attention, but its mix of comfort, style, and price keeps it firmly in the game. Lower fuel cost this month gives it a slight edge and a little breathing room for your budget.

Key costs involved with owning a Hyundai i20 in 2025:

• Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,296
• Cost to fill the tank: R796
• Monthly repayment: R6,833
• Purchase price: R309,900

A good-looking, no-nonsense hatch for everyday driving. Still underrated, in our opinion.

5. Ford Ranger: The bakkie that built SA

No surprises here — the Ford Ranger is still the go-to for those who need power, space, and serious presence on (and off) the road. It’s the most expensive on the list, but if you’re buying a Ranger, you already know what you’re signing up for.

Key costs involved with owning a Ford Ranger in 2025:

• Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,606
• Cost to fill the tank: R1,546
• Monthly repayment: R13,140
• Purchase price: R600,000

It’s a beast, and it consumes fuel like one, but Mzansi loves it nonetheless.

The real plot twist: Chinese cars climbing the charts

While the top spots remain unchanged, there’s action further down the list. Chinese brands GWM and Chery have officially cracked the Top 10 in March, landing at 9th and 10th respectively.

So what’s behind the rise?

• Aggressive pricing: GWM’s Haval Jolion and Chery’s Tiggo 4 Pro offer SUV styling and features at hatchback prices.
• Big tech, small cost: Panoramic sunroofs, digital clusters, and smart infotainment are now standard fare.
• Warranty flex: Some models offer warranties up to 7 years or 200,000 km — a strong signal of confidence.

More South Africans are taking a chance on these newcomers, and early reviews suggest it’s paying off. The value equation is shifting, and traditional brands might need to watch their rearview mirrors.

March’s top five may look familiar, but the backdrop is changing fast. With fuel savings this month and new contenders climbing the charts, it’s a good time to reassess what value really looks like in the car market.

And if you’re comparing car insurance premiums, you know where to start - Hippo, of course!

Comparison of March’s top selling cars and their costs

Need to crunch the numbers? Get up to 12 personalised car insurance quotes on Hippo today and make sure your new ride fits your budget perfectly! Hippo Car Insurance Quotes.