December 2024’s Top 5 Cars in South Africa: Insurance, Fuel, and Financing Breakdown

Posted by Hippo on 17 January 2025

Car in a showroom, showcasing a sleek design with blurred background featuring other vehicles

Naamsa’s December sales data revealed some familiar faces on South Africa’s roads. Toyota dominated yet again (no surprises there, right?), with the Toyota Corolla leading the pack.

But how do the numbers stack up for December's top sellers when it comes to insurance, fuel, and monthly repayments? Hippo’s data has the answers.

Let’s break it down and see which one might work best for your lifestyle and wallet.

1. Toyota Corolla: The Reliable Leader

Key costs:

Average insurance premium: R1,170
Tank size: 50 litres
Cost to fill the tank: R1,080
Monthly repayment (based on prime 11.25%, 60 months & no deposit): R12,107

The Toyota Corolla continues its reign as South Africa’s favourite, and it’s easy to see why. A 50-litre tank makes it manageable to fuel up, and with an insurance premium of R1,170, it’s relatively pocket-friendly compared to others in its class. Just be prepared for a monthly repayment of R12,107 if you’re buying at the prime rate.

Close-up view of a black car's front grille and headlight in a showroom, with rows of vehicles displayed in the blurred background.

2. Volkswagen Polo: The City Slicker

Key costs:

Average insurance premium: R1,565
Tank size: 45 litres
Cost to fill the tank: R972
Monthly repayment (based on prime 11.25%, 60 months & no deposit): R8,842

The VW Polo remains a beloved choice for urban drivers. Its smaller 45-litre tank means slightly less pain at the pump (R972 to fill up), but an insurance premium of R1,565 might nibble at your monthly budget. That said, its compact design and reputation for reliability keep it a strong contender.

3. Suzuki Swift: Budget-Friendly Bliss

Key costs:

Average insurance premium: R1,346
Tank size: 37 litres
Cost to fill the tank: R799
Monthly repayment (based on prime 11.25%, 60 months & no deposit): R4,904

The Suzuki Swift continues to live up to its name—both in agility and affordability. With a monthly repayment of just R4,904 and the lowest tank fill-up cost at R799, this is the ideal pick for first-time buyers or anyone looking to save. Add its modest insurance premium of R1,346, and you’ve got a winner for the cost-conscious driver.

4. Hyundai i20: Practicality Meets Style

Key costs:

Average insurance premium: R1,315
Tank size: 37 litres
Cost to fill the tank: R799
Monthly repayment (based on prime 11.25%, 60 months & no deposit): R6,872

The Hyundai i20 offers a stylish yet practical option for those seeking a balance between affordability and performance. With its R6,872 monthly repayment and an insurance premium slightly lower than the Swift’s at R1,315, it’s a solid choice for young professionals or small families.

5. Ford Ranger: The Powerhouse

Key costs:

Average insurance premium: R1,627
Tank size: 80 litres
Cost to fill the tank: R1,727
Monthly repayment (based on prime 11.25%, 60 months & no deposit): R13,216

The Ford Ranger brings rugged capability, but at a price. Its 80-litre tank will cost a hefty R1,727 to fill, and with a monthly repayment of R13,216, it’s not for the faint of wallet. However, for those in need of serious power and status, the Ranger delivers both in spades.

Choosing the Right Car for Your Budget and Lifestyle

December’s top cars cater to a wide range of needs, from budget-friendly city options like the Suzuki Swift to rugged workhorses like the Ford Ranger.

But one key takeaway is the importance of car insurance. While you can’t control petrol prices or interest rates, you can save on your insurance premium by shopping around.