January 2013 was yet another successful month for the South African automotive industry with vehicle sales totalling 55 007 units according to NAAMSA. The passenger vehicle market showed gains of 12.3% compared to January 2012 with sales totalling 39 738 units. The top five selling vehicles in South Africa for January 2013 are as follows. Please note that the results include vehicles in the passenger vehicle segment and the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment.
1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 4 037 units
South Africas most popular selling passenger car for 2012 has had a phenomenal start to the year, proving its popularity in the South African market. Compared to December 2012, Polo Vivo sales increased by 46.8% or 1 890 units in January 2013. The Polo Vivo remains a popular entry-level choice for new car buyers and is offered either as a hatchback or sedan with a variety of engine options ranging from between 55kW and 77kW. Depending on the model, prices range from R110 500 for the 1.4-litre 2-door hatchback and R157 700 for the 1.6 Trendline sedan.
2. Volkswagen Polo 2 790 units
The VW Polo was rated as South Africas third best selling model in 2012 and continues to be a popular option for new car buyers in South Africa. Compared to December 2012, Polo sales increased by 17.1% in January 2013, solidifying its position in the new passenger car market. The VW Polo is also offered as either a hatchback or sedan and prices start from R160 100 for the 1.4-litre Trendline to the top-of-the-range Polo GTI which is priced at R280 400.
3. Toyota Hilux 2 634 units
Hot on the heels of the VW Polo is Toyotas ever popular Hilux bakkie. The Hilux had a successful sales year in 2012 and is South Africas most popular bakkie and was rated as South Africas second best selling vehicle for 2012. The Toyota Hilux is available in three body styles namely Single Cab, Xtra Cab and Double Cab. A wide variety of engine options are available and prices range from R186 700 to R475 900, depending on the model.
4. Toyota Etios 2 515 units
The Toyota Etios has been in the top selling list for a number of months and has had a successful sales run since its launch in South Africa in May last year. Compared to December 2012, Etios sales have climbed by 31.5% in January 2013 which is indicative of its popularity in the South African market. The Etios is available as a hatchback or sedan with prices starting at R115 800 for the 1.5 Xi hatchback and R121 900 for the 1.5 Xi sedan. The Etios remains a strong contender in the entry-level car market.
5. Nissan NP200 1 553 units
Nissans most popular workhorse, the NP200, has started the year on a positive note and was regarded as Nissans best selling vehicle in 2012. Compared to December 2012, NP200 sales have increased by 47.2% in January 2012. Prices for the Nissan NP200 start at R120 900 for the 1.6 Base model while the 1.6 High model is priced at R172 500.
