September new vehicle sales were announced from SA Autoweek 2025 today, marking the start of Transport Month and providing an insight into the continued growth of the country’s new vehicle market.
Sales during September grew 24,3% to 54,700 units with 80,1% of those retailed through dealer networks.
“Confidence and sentiment are both looking good for South Africa’s vehicle market – both new and used,” said Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) commenting on the August sales figures released today by naamsa | The Automotive Business Council. “We certainly noticed good dealer activity in September. Some brands absolutely shot the lights out, while others struggled a little reflecting the overall performance of the new vehicle market.”
NADA indicated more positive signs for dealer activity and the continued demand for new vehicles within a renewed optimism in the country. “The 1c per litre rise in petrol price is positive for October and we know the last CPI at 3.3% was very good and right near the 3% unofficial target of the South African Reserve Bank,” said Cohen. “US Dollar weakness is helping the Rand, which will contribute to new vehicle pricing stability for some time to come.”
Improving overall economic sentiment, Cohen noted the continued developments at Transnet, impacting stock delivery to dealers across the country, whilst combatting costs and therefore helping reduce overheads. “These improvements in national infrastructure not only provide efficiency to dealers but improve service to customers from a vehicle and parts availability perspective, never mind the reduction of road activity impacting road conditions and traffic,” said Cohen.
An additional national improvement is the reduction of the drivers’ licence backlog by over half, which impacts access to finance and insurance during purchase considerations and ownership.
“Access to additional funds through the Two-Pot Retirement System has contributed to some households becoming credit-worthy again,” said NADA Vice Chairperson, Thembinkosi Pantsi. “While accessing savings should be carefully considered with the help of professional advisors, it is clear that overall budgets remain strained and are impacting affordability.”
Business confidence over the remainder of the year will be crucial for sustainability. With increases in Heavy Commercials (up 18%) and Buses (up 60,5%) weighed against small declines in Medium (-1,9%) and Extra-Heavy trucks (down 1,5% but the largest commercial vehicle volume), there is good potential for continued growth in the last quarter.
“While demand clearly exists, affordability continues to constrain the new vehicle market, forcing many motorists into pre-owned showrooms in search of better value,” said Cohen. “While this remains good business for dealers, it ultimately impacts new vehicle sales and their slow recovery to pre-COVID levels. It does, however, maintain mobility for South Africans at an affordable price point.”
NADA Director, Ashley Samuel noted an easing environment for consumers where cheaper inflation, a stronger rand, and more competitive car prices were making buying easier. “Although high interest rates and weak job growth are still making it harder for people to buy more expensive cars, the market is proving resilient and continues to boost the economy,” said Samuel.
naamsa release September 2025 New Vehicle Sales Reporthttps://t.co/3Xn8jNnD86#ArriveAlive #VehicleSales #naamsa @dealerfloor pic.twitter.com/1YsTFd9YsK
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) October 2, 2025
