AutoTrader reports that 30,742 used vehicles were sold in December, reflecting an 8.77% month-on-month decline following exceptionally strong sales in October and November. Yet, compared to December 2024, sales increased by 16.34%, confirming that brand strength carried the market through the year.
Toyota: Still the Market Leader
Despite the seasonal slowdown, Toyota remained the most dominant brand in South Africa’s used car market. The brand recorded 5,039 used vehicle sales in December 2025.
While sales were down month-on-month, Toyota still delivered an 11.14% year-on-year increase. The brand also continued to control 40% of the Top 10 best-selling used vehicles, reinforcing its reputation for durability, reliability, and strong resale value.
Toyota’s consistent performance shows that trusted brands are less affected by short-term market fluctuations.
Ford Holds Firm Through Ranger Dominance
Ford once again proved the power of a strong hero model. The Ford Ranger remained South Africa’s best-selling used vehicle in December, with 1,744 units sold.
Although sales dipped slightly from November, Ranger volumes still grew 6.28% year-on-year. This steady performance kept Ford firmly positioned among the top used car brands, even during a quieter month.
The Ranger’s dominance highlights how brand loyalty in the bakkie segment continues to drive long-term success.
Volkswagen Stays Competitive with Polo and Polo Vivo
Volkswagen held its ground in December, selling 4,299 used vehicles. The brand recorded a 7.66% year-on-year increase, showing resilience despite the monthly decline.
The ongoing success of the Polo and Polo Vivo played a key role. In December, the Polo Vivo edged ahead of the Polo by just one unit, underlining Volkswagen’s ability to appeal to both value-focused and urban buyers.
This dual-model strategy continues to protect Volkswagen’s position during softer trading periods.
Rising Brands That Defied the Slowdown
Beyond the traditional leaders, several brands continued to gain momentum despite the December dip.
These brands benefited from competitive pricing, practical models, and growing consumer trust, allowing them to outperform even when overall volumes softened.
Premium Brands Feel the Pressure
While mainstream and value-driven brands stayed strong, premium brands struggled to maintain momentum. Mercedes-Benz recorded a 7.37% year-on-year decline, and long-standing favourites like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class fell out of the Top 10 used best-sellers.
This shift reflects changing buyer priorities, with affordability and running costs outweighing prestige.
Strong Brands Drive Market Value
Despite lower monthly volumes, the value of used cars sold reached R12.89 billion in December 2025. This represented a 19.46% year-on-year increase, showing that strong brands continued to command healthy prices.
The average used vehicle price rose to R419,537, reinforcing buyer confidence in established and fast-growing brands.
Brand Strength Sets the Tone for 2026
“After two exceptionally strong months, a December slowdown was expected,” said George Mienie, CEO of AutoTrader.
“What stands out is how well the leading brands held their ground. Strong, trusted brands continue to drive demand and value in the used car market.”
As 2025 came to a close, one trend was clear. The strongest brands stayed strong. Toyota, Ford, Volkswagen, and a growing group of challenger brands proved that brand trust, not short-term volume, remains the key driver of success in South Africa’s used car market.
