South Africa July 2014: VW Polo confirms pole position

The VW Polo is the most popular vehicle in South Africa for the 2nd month running.

* See the Top 100 best-selling models and Top 35 manufacturers by clicking on the title! *

In spite of high levels of industrial action, rising inflation and interest rates, new car sales in South Africa are down just 0.8% year-on-year in July to 57,670 registrations, bringing the year-to-date total to 366,210 units, down 4% on 2013. Toyota continues to lead the manufacturers ranking just below 20% share, ahead of VW Group (17%), Hyundai-Kia (11.8%), Ford-Mazda (11.5%) and GM-Isuzu (10.1%). Model-wise, we are witnessing a major shift atop the sales charts: after leading the way for the first time last month, the VW Polo confirm it is the new favourite of South African consumers by ranking #1 once again thanks to 3,330 sales and 5.8% share, also overtaking the Polo Vivo to now rank #2 year-to-date at 18,615 units and 5.1%. The Toyota Hilux remains 2nd this month at 3,117 sales and 5.4%, still topping the ytd charts at 20,756 units and 5.6%.

Ford Ecosport

Below, both the Ford Ranger (4.4%) and Toyota Corolla (3.8%) lodge higher shares than their year-to-date levels, the Toyota Etios is back up to #6, the Mercedes C-Class is very solid at #10 and 2.4% vs. 1.8% year-to-date and the Ford Ecosport hits its best ranking since September 2013 at #14. Notice also the Nissan Qashqai at #23, the Nissan NV350 at #50, BMW 4 Series at #46, Mercedes GLA at #61 and BMW 2 Series at #79. Among newcomers, let’s point out the Mitsubishi Mirage at #86, the Fiat 500L at #112 and Porsche Macan at #120.

Previous month: South Africa June 2014: VW Polo takes the lead for the first time

One year ago: South Africa July 2013: VW Polo Vivo now in the lead year-to-date

Full July 2014 Top 100 models Ranking Table below.