The SA Vehicle Industry Thread

[FiestaST]

PEUGEOT SA REJIGS RANGE, AXES ENTRY-LEVEL 208 VARIANT

Now that Peugeot Citroën South Africa is no longer a wholly owned subsidiary of the PSA Group, we’re starting to notice some strategic changes, including some tinkering with the make-up of the local range.

In fact, the 208 line-up has been quietly rejigged, with the outgoing entry-level 1,0-litre Pop Art derivative (R174 900) suddenly disappearing from the official price list and the unchanged 1,2 Active (R224 900) stepping up as the new base model. The automatic version (R304 900) of the flagship GT-Line model has also been axed.

A mid-range 1,2 Allure variant (R239 900), meanwhile, has been added to the range, while the manual 1,2 GT-Line has had its price cut from R284 900 to R259 900.

The Active and Allure variants each employ a 1,2-litre turbo-triple worth 60 kW and 118 N.m, and mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The GT-Line model uses the same unit (and manual ‘box), but with peak outputs boosted to 81 kW and 205 N.m.

The 2008 line-up, meanwhile, now features a new range-topper in the form of the 2008 GT-Line+ auto, which comes in at R369 900. From what we understand, this newcomer is available on pre-order only. It’s a similar case with the Allure+ and GT-Line+ variants in the freshly launched 3008 range.

And the 308? Well, this model is also nowhere to be seen on the official price list, but the facelifted version is expected to touch down in South Africa at the start of October…

Pricing:

Peugeot 208 1,2 Active: R224 900
Peugeot 208 1,2 Allure: R239 900
Peugeot 208 1,2 GT-Line: R259 900

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/peugeot-sa-rejigs-range-axes-entry-level-208-variant/

 

[FiestaST]

THESE 10 MANUAL CARS HAVE JUST BEEN CULLED IN SA

Back in February, CARmag.co.za broke the news that BMW had killed off the manual versions of its M3 and M4. Volkswagen, of course, had done the same with its GTI. And now yet more stick-shift models have been discontinued locally.

So, which models have found their way onto the chopping block? Well, Audi has scrapped the entry-level manual version of its A4 in 1,4T FSI guise, meaning that all derivatives in the local range now employ a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

BMW, meanwhile, has culled the manual variants of its 120i and M140i (but retain the manual 118i and 120d), as well as removed the option of a third pedal for the 220i, 230i and M240i (again, keeping the 220d and thankfully also the M2 available in manual).

As we reported previously, too, Volkswagen has called time on the manual version of its Polo GTI (it remains to be seen whether VW South Africa will bring in the stick-shift versions of the upcoming Polo GTI), as well as the entry-level Scirocco 2,0TSI Highline manual and Jetta 1,6TDI Comfortline manual.

Volvo, too, has discontinued the base Volvo S60, which had been offered in T3 Kinetic manual guise.

Why have these manufacturers all taken this stance? Well, they’re simply responding to what the market wants … and the market wants self-shifters, it seems. Indeed, Audi Sport has already explained why it is killing off the option of the manual transmission, and it’s all basically down to a lack of demand.

Still, there are a few brands bucking the trend. Porsche, for example, says the manual gearbox will never die, while Jaguar SA added three-pedal versions of its F-Type back in March.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/these-10-manual-cars-have-just-been-culled-in-sa/

 

[supersunbird]

So these entry level (for the brand/model line, not cars overall) manuals were not selling?

 

[FlashSA]

Pricing:

Peugeot 208 1,2 Active: R224 900
Peugeot 208 1,2 Allure: R239 900
Peugeot 208 1,2 GT-Line: R259 900

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/peugeot-sa-rejigs-range-axes-entry-level-208-variant/

So these entry level (for the brand/model line, not cars overall) manuals were not selling?

I don't understand their plan here. Majority of new plated (latest number plate numbers) 208's I see driving around are the entry level Pop-Art's (easily distinguished by black door handles and mirrors) and not Active (owned one in the past) or Allure's.

HTF do they expect to compete against the likes of Fiesta Ambiente (constant Ford Credit deals for R189k) without a sub R200k model?

 

[FiestaST]

I don't understand their plan here. Majority of new plated (latest number plate numbers) 208's I see driving around are the entry level Pop-Art's (easily distinguished by black door handles and mirrors) and not Active (owned one in the past) or Allure's.

HTF do they expect to compete against the likes of Fiesta Ambiente (constant Ford Credit deals for R189k) without a sub R200k model?

100%...Rather daft

 

[FiestaST]

Here are the top 10 best-selling bikes in SA

With our sunny weather, variety of riding conditions and relatively good road infrastructure, it is not surprising that bikes are extremely popular in this country.

However, what may well be surprising to some is the fact that bigger machines do not dominate the rankings. This was what we found out when we took a look at eNatis registration figures for the past 12 months.

We then asked an expert in the person of Lachlan Harris, National Director of the Association of Motorcycle Importers and Distributors (AMID), to crunch the numbers and help us come up with a definitive list.

The list

Almost predictably BMW’s R 1200 GS tops the list, but that’s where predictability ends: the next four placed are taken up by sub-200 cm³ machines. The Big Beemer boasts a whopping 891 units registered, more than double those of the second-place holder, Honda’s Elite 125 with 368 units. Two more Hondas take third and fourth places, with Big Boy in fifth.

The next big bike, the KTM 1290 Adventure, appears in the sixth position. The top end of market seems to be split 60/40 between commuter/commercial bikes (1 667 units) and adventure bikes (1 047 units), with sport bikes, cruisers, tourers and other sub-categories not making it into the Top 10.

Says Harris about the trend in the registration figures: “Essentially we are still a market made up of commercial bikes and leisure units. And of the leisure bikes, the dual sport or adventure bikes are well in the majority.”

Arguably, in a country where bikes are relatively expensive and many riders own a single bike, this is a pointer to the versatility of adventure bikes – they tend to serve as commuters, tourers and go-play-on-Sunday bikes all rolled into one.

The Top 10 list by brands look a little different: BMW no longer tops the list – with 1 623 units, the honour goes to Honda. But for BMW, KTM and Harley-Davidson to make it onto the list is an impressive feat because they don’t have the benefit of commercial models to boost their sales volumes.

If you’re interested in the details, here are our two bike Top 10 lists:

Top 10 by model



http://www.wheels24.co.za/BikesQuads/here-are-the-top-10-best-selling-bikes-in-sa-20170817

 

[FiestaST]

9 CHEAPEST DUAL-CLUTCH VEHICLES IN SOUTH AFRICA

When CARmag.co.za broke the news earlier this month that as many as 10 vehicles with a manual gearbox had been culled in South Africa, the comments on our Facebook page made for interesting reading.

A clear divide between proponents of the traditional stick-shift and supporters of cog-swapping hardware that doesn’t require the left foot quickly emerged. While a handful of fans of the conventional torque-converter made their voices heard, many readers expressed a particular affinity for the dual-clutch transmission.

Since this type of gearbox is generally not the cheapest around (and was in fact once pretty much limited to use in high-performance cars), we had a dig through South Africa’s new vehicle market to identify the nine least expensive vehicles employing a twin-clutch transmission. This is what we found…

1. Smart ForFour base auto: R210 400

The four-door car from Smart can be had with a dual-clutch transmission aptly branded “Twinamic”, which replaces the much-maligned semi-automatic gearbox used in the first-generation model. The twin-clutch gearbox is a six-speeder and in this application is linked to a 66 kW/135 N.m 0,9-litre turbo-triple petrol mill. Higher trim levels (such as that worn by the vehicle depicted above) are available for a bit more cash, while the transmission is also used in Brabus versions (including the ForTwo).

2. Ford Figo hatch 1,5 Titanium auto: R215 900

The second-cheapest dual-clutch-equipped car in SA? The Figo hatch, which makes use of Ford’s six-speed Powershift transmission. Here, it is linked to a naturally aspirated 1,5-litre petrol engine worth 82 kW and 136 N.m. Claimed consumption comes in at 6,0 L/100 km. Take note that this powertrain can be had in a sedan body style as well, for an extra R2 000.

3. Ford Fiesta 1,0T Ambiente auto: R239 900

Right behind the range-topping Figo is the cheapest automatic version of the Fiesta. Also making use of a six-speed Powershift gearbox, this Fiesta draws 74 kW (manual models have the full-fat 92 kW) and 170 N.m from its 1,0-litre turbo-triple heart. Claimed consumption is as low as 4,9 L/100 km, while the sprint to 100 km/h takes a claimed 10,8 seconds. This powertrain is likewise available in posher Trend and Titanium trim levels.

4. Renault Clio 88 kW turbo Expression auto: R264 900

Renault’s so-called EDC transmission – which also features six forward gears – is employed by the mid-range Expression variant in the local Clio range. That means it’s linked to a 1,2-litre turbo-petrol four-pot, which sends 88 kW and 190 N.m to the front wheels for a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 9,4 seconds. The French automaker says this model is capable of sipping at 5,2 L/100 km.

5. Volkswagen Polo hatch 1,2TSI Highline auto: R292 300

While the cheapest Polo in South Africa with a self-shifting gearbox is the Polo Sedan 1,6 Comfortline auto, that derivative actually employs a Tiptronic transmission, which is a torque converter. The 1,2TSI Highline auto hatchback, meanwhile, uses a seven-speed DSG transmission mated to an 81 kW/175 N.m turbocharged petrol engine, which allows for a claimed 9,3-second dash to 100 km/h and a claimed combined consumption of 5,1 L/100 km. This gearbox is also used in the latest Polo R-Line model (for an extra R100), linked to an 81 kW/200 N.m 1,0-litre turbo-triple.

6. Renault Duster 1,5dCi Dynamique auto: R299 900

Renault’s six-speed EDC makes another appearance here, although this time it’s married to a 1,5-litre turbo-diesel engine (the only oil-burner on this list, incidentally) sending 80 kW and 250 N.m to the front wheels. Claimed fuel economy comes in at 4,8 L/100 km.

7. Audi A1 3-door 1,0TFSI S auto: R303 500

Audi’s 1,0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder can be had in conjunction with the Ingolstadt brand’s seven-speed S tronic transmission. Peak outputs of 70 kW and 160 N.m translate to a claimed sprint to three figures in 10,9 seconds and a claimed consumption of 4,4 L/100 km. If you’re prepared to spend a little more cash, there is also a better-equipped SE variant as well as a Sportback body style.

8. Renault Captur 88 kW turbo Dynamique auto: R309 900

The third Renault on this list, the self-shifting Captur employs the same powertrain as the Clio above (that is, a 1,2-litre turbo-petrol four-pot with 88 kW and 190 N.m). However, since the crossover is a little heavier than the hatch, it takes a tad longer to reach 100 km/h (a claimed 10,9 seconds) and is slightly less efficient (at 5,4 L/100 km), too.

9. Ford EcoSport 1,5 Titanium auto: R312 900

The final spot on our list goes to the only automatic derivative in the six-strong local EcoSport range. The little crossover employs the same powertrain as the Figo hatch above, but gains an extra 2 N.m. Interestingly, though, the claimed consumption falls to 5,4 L/100 km…

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/9-cheapest-dual-clutch-vehicles-in-south-africa/

 

[FiestaST]

 

[FiestaST]

Wait, what? Jaguar Land Rover has cut pricing in SA!

Jaguar Land Rover SA has cuts its local pricing for as many as seven model ranges, including the F-Pace.

It’s not often one sees a brand cutting pricing, but that’s exactly what Jaguar Land Rover South Africa has just done, across as many as seven of its local model line-ups.

Yes, the local arm of the British automaker has seen fit to adjust its pricing downwards, with the unusual (but welcome) move impacting all variants in the Jaguar XE, Jaguar XF, Jaguar F-Pace and Jaguar F-Type ranges, along with those in the Land Rover Discovery Sport, Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Sport line-ups.

The reason behind the decision? Well, the brand told CARmag.co.za that it “decided to reduce prices thanks to the medium-term recovery and stability in the pound-rand exchange rate, as well as [after] recognising high levels of current financial deal support in the market”.

“We believed there was an opportunity to pass this price benefit on to consumers, in the interest of transparency,” Jaguar Land Rover told us.

So, what sort of price adjustments are we looking at? Well, some are as high as 5%, which translates to a fairly significant sum when you’re talking about premium vehicles.

Let’s have a look at a few examples. The entry-level F-Pace 20d AWD Pure, for instance, is now some R40 000 cheaper at R762 066, while the price of the range-topping F-Pace 35t AWD S derivative has been slashed by a whopping R61 200 to R1 172 446. It’s a similar case in the middle of the range, where the F-Pace 25d AWD R-Sport is now positioned some R49 000 lower at R934 662.

The base Jaguar XE 20d Pure, meanwhile, is now priced at R569 500 (down R30 000), with the flagship XE S at R1 003 136 (a reduction of R52 300). An example from the XF line-up includes the mid-range XF 25t Portfolio, which is now R21 150 cheaper at R903 076.

Getting into the entry-level, four-cylinder F-Type will now cost you R44 100 less at R914 202, while the monster F-Type SVR Coupé AWD is now priced at R2 242 986, which represents a cut of some R107 800. The XJ is the only model range in Jaguar SA’s local stable that has not benefited from the price cuts.

Turning to Land Rover, we see that the Discovery Sport range tops out at R860 366 for the flagship HSE Luxury TD4 (some R15 200 down), while the Evoque line-up kicks off with the SE TD4 variant at R768 696 (down R32 000). Even all Range Rover Sport models are now cheaper, with the brutal SVR dropping some R109 500 to R2 102 786.

The new Discovery as well as the Range Rover SUV have not had their prices adjusted. Pricing for the upcoming Velar, too, remains unchanged.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/wait-what-jaguar-land-rover-has-cut-pricing-in-sa/

 

[Gtx Gaming]

Wait, what? Jaguar Land Rover has cut pricing in SA!

Jaguar Land Rover SA has cuts its local pricing for as many as seven model ranges, including the F-Pace.

It’s not often one sees a brand cutting pricing, but that’s exactly what Jaguar Land Rover South Africa has just done, across as many as seven of its local model line-ups.

Yes, the local arm of the British automaker has seen fit to adjust its pricing downwards, with the unusual (but welcome) move impacting all variants in the Jaguar XE, Jaguar XF, Jaguar F-Pace and Jaguar F-Type ranges, along with those in the Land Rover Discovery Sport, Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Sport line-ups.

The reason behind the decision? Well, the brand told CARmag.co.za that it “decided to reduce prices thanks to the medium-term recovery and stability in the pound-rand exchange rate, as well as [after] recognising high levels of current financial deal support in the market”.

“We believed there was an opportunity to pass this price benefit on to consumers, in the interest of transparency,” Jaguar Land Rover told us.

So, what sort of price adjustments are we looking at? Well, some are as high as 5%, which translates to a fairly significant sum when you’re talking about premium vehicles.

Let’s have a look at a few examples. The entry-level F-Pace 20d AWD Pure, for instance, is now some R40 000 cheaper at R762 066, while the price of the range-topping F-Pace 35t AWD S derivative has been slashed by a whopping R61 200 to R1 172 446. It’s a similar case in the middle of the range, where the F-Pace 25d AWD R-Sport is now positioned some R49 000 lower at R934 662.

The base Jaguar XE 20d Pure, meanwhile, is now priced at R569 500 (down R30 000), with the flagship XE S at R1 003 136 (a reduction of R52 300). An example from the XF line-up includes the mid-range XF 25t Portfolio, which is now R21 150 cheaper at R903 076.

Getting into the entry-level, four-cylinder F-Type will now cost you R44 100 less at R914 202, while the monster F-Type SVR Coupé AWD is now priced at R2 242 986, which represents a cut of some R107 800. The XJ is the only model range in Jaguar SA’s local stable that has not benefited from the price cuts.

Turning to Land Rover, we see that the Discovery Sport range tops out at R860 366 for the flagship HSE Luxury TD4 (some R15 200 down), while the Evoque line-up kicks off with the SE TD4 variant at R768 696 (down R32 000). Even all Range Rover Sport models are now cheaper, with the brutal SVR dropping some R109 500 to R2 102 786.

The new Discovery as well as the Range Rover SUV have not had their prices adjusted. Pricing for the upcoming Velar, too, remains unchanged.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/wait-what-jaguar-land-rover-has-cut-pricing-in-sa/

Pretty good on them! Pound is pretty weak atm and I guess these are imported from the UK.

Meanwhile VW increased the pricing on the amarok so they can show people they have most expensive bakkie by miles

 

[NarrowBandFtw]

what sort of price adjustments are we looking at? Well, some are as high as 5%

5% when the annual increase for premium brands hovers around 10%? :wtf:

So they're still significantly above last year's prices then, although, this is the first price drop in the motor trade of South Africa in my entire lifetime, so it is quite welcome!

 

[TheChamp]

World's Largest Automakers, July 2017: Renault-Nissan Still Ahead

The Renault-Nissan Alliance continues its strong showing that made it the world’s largest automaker by half time 2017. As of July, and according to data supplied by the automakers, the Alliance remains in the number one position, before Toyota, and last year’s number one Volkswagen.

The Alliance, which consists of Renault including Avtovaz, Nissan, and Mitsubishi, increased its global year-to-date output by a respectable 13%. Toyota took its foot off the brake and accelerated by 4.4% compared to the same period in 2016. Volkswagen Group added 1.3%.

All three global automaker groups are expected to make and sell more than 10 million units this year. Who will come out ahead is still anybody’s guess. As of July, the Renault-Nissan Alliance leads Toyota by a little less than 50,000 units. Toyota is some 136,000 units ahead of Volkswagen. Anything can happen with that tight a race.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/bertelschmitt/2017/08/30/worlds-largest-automakers-july-2017-renault-nissan-still-ahead/#6113b3e03f31

 

[FiestaST]

SA car, bakkie trends show 'local is lekker'

When it comes to buying new vehicles, South Africans have a growing preference for purchasing locally-built cars, according to year-to-date sales data by Naamsa.

Sales from January to July 2017 show that nine of the 10 top-selling cars and bakkies are built in South Africa – accounting for 34.1% of passenger car and light commercial vehicle (LCV) sales, year-to-date.

From January to July, a total 301 486 passenger cars and LCVs were sold. Of the 358 different models on sale this year, only 25 are built in South Africa. Despite only representing 7% of all models on sale, South African-built cars account for 45.5% of sales, compared to the 54.5% sales share for the 326 imported models on sale.

Bakkies remain the most popular, accounting for 55% of year-to-date sales among SA-built vehicles. Bakkies form part of the LCV segment, which also includes minibuses and light vehicles that have been refitted for commercial use. Between 2012 and 2016, the LCV segment grew 7.1%, while total vehicle sales over that period declined 18.8%.

Check out the tables below: Info by Naamsa and Wesbank

http://www.wheels24.co.za/News/SA_vehicle_sales/sa-car-bakkie-trends-show-local-is-lekker-20170831

 

[FiestaST]

SA's best-selling cars: Vivo leads, Fortuner sees huge drop

Continuing its run as South Africa’s best-selling passenger car, Volkswagen's Polo Vivo remained at the top of the sales charts.

Volkswagen sold 2340 Polo Vivos in August 2017, followed by its larger Polo sibling with 2096 units sold.

Close contention

Though the Polo Vivo and Polo were the only two passenger cars to exceed 2000 units, Toyota models make up the majority of the top ten. The Corolla/Auris/Conquest registered 1343 units, followed by the Etios (1161).

Another good month for SA car sales: 'Encouraging gains' in August 2017

Ford sold the same number of Fiesta and EcoSport models, 1071 units, in August 2017, beating the ever-popular Toyota Fortuner by a single unit (1070).
In eighth place, the Kia Picanto continued its top ten run for the second consecutive month with 846 units, ahead of the Renault Kwid (784) in ninth.

The Toyota Rav 4 completes the top ten with 651 units.

Improvement over 2016

In total, 32 161 passenger cars were sold in August 2017 - a gain of 1654 units or an improvement of 5.4% compared to the 30 507 vehicles sold in August last year.

Naamsa said: "The domestic automotive industry continued to hold up relatively well in the current difficult economic environment. Reduced new vehicle pricing pressures and overall lower inflationary trends together with the July, 2017 25 basis points reduction in interest rates provided some relief for consumers."

http://www.wheels24.co.za/News/SA_v...s-vivo-leads-fortuner-sees-huge-drop-20170901

 

[FiestaST]

Another good month for SA car sales: 'Encouraging gains' in August 2017

"New vehicle sales recorded encouraging gains for the second consecutive month," reports National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa).

Naamsa reports new vehicle sales registered 49 222 units in August 2017, an increase of 3091 units or 6.7% compared to the 46 131 vehicles sold in August 2016.

The new car market reflected a further increase at 32 161 units, a gain of 1654 units or 5.4% compared to the 30 507 new cars sold in August last year.

Total sales

Overall, out of the total 49 222 vehicles sold, an estimated 40 320 units or 81.9% represent dealer sales, an estimated 11.9% represent the rental industry, 3.6% corporate fleets and 2.6% were government sales.

Export sales in August 2017 registered 29 927 vehicles, a decline of 4431 units or a drop of 12.9% compared to the 34 358 vehicles exported in August last year.

More bakkies sold

Domestic sales of new light commercial vehicles (LCV), saw bakkies and mini buses register 14 834 units in August 2017, a substantial gain of 1448 vehicles or an improvement of 10.8% compared to the 13 386 LCVs sold during same period in 2016. The improvement builds on the gains recorded in local LCV sector in recent months.

Exports

Following the strong gain recorded in new vehicle exports in July 2017, exports contracted during August with a decline of 4431 units (-12.9%), compared to the 34 358 vehicles exported in August 2016.

Overall market

Naamsa said: ""The domestic automotive industry continued to hold up relatively well in the current difficult economic environment."

Reduced new vehicle pricing pressures and overall lower inflationary, trends together with the 25 basis points reduction in interest rates (July 2017) provided some relief for consumers.

"Furthermore, attractive sales incentives on offer also supported demand. Naamsa continues to anticipate that the overall market for 2017 would be at levels similar to those recorded in 2016 with the possibility, based on domestic sales over the last two months, of an overall improvement of between 1.0% and 1.5%. Global economic growth prospects remained quite positive and this should continue to support vehicle exports over the medium term."

http://www.wheels24.co.za/News/SA_v...les-encouraging-gains-in-august-2017-20170901

 

[FiestaST]

South Africa’s 10 best-selling bakkies of August 2017

The Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger continue to do battle at the top...

The sales figures for the eighth month of 2017 are in and the gap between the two vehicles fighting for the title of South Africa’s best-selling bakkie is widening.

According to Naamsa, August 2017 aggregate new vehicle sales at 49 222 units increased by 6,7% year-on-year. At 14 834 units, meanwhile, the light commercial segment reflected a substantial gain of 10,8% compared to last year.

So, exactly what happened in August?

Well, the Toyota Hilux enjoyed its second consecutive month at the very top of the pile, beating the Ford Ranger by a considerable 826 units in August. Year-to-date, that puts the Hilux some 1 439 units ahead of the Ford.

The Nissan NP200, meanwhile, retained third place, while the Isuzu KB climbed one to fourth. That saw the Nissan NP300 fall one spot to fifth. As Chevrolet winds down its local operations, sales of the Utility fell, but not enough to see it lose sixth place.

The Volkswagen Amarok, meanwhile, retained seventh, while the Toyota Land Cruiser Pick-up and the Nissan Navara likewise held steady in eighth and ninth, respectively. The Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up returned to snaffle the final spot on the table, forcing its Bolero (73) sibling out of the picture.

That means there’s again no room for the Mazda BT-50 (53), Mitsubishi Triton (25) or Fiat Fullback (19) in August.

See the top ten list below, and have a look at July’s figures here.

South Africa’s 10 best-selling bakkies of August 2017:

1. Toyota Hilux – 3 392
2. Ford Ranger – 2 566
3. Nissan NP200 – 1 565
4. Isuzu KB – 1 372
5. Nissan NP300 – 1 145
6. Chevrolet Utility – 677
7. Volkswagen Amarok – 358
8. Toyota Land Cruiser Pick-up – 210
9. Nissan Navara – 175
10. Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up – 89

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/south-africas-10-best-selling-bakkies-of-august-2017/

 

[FiestaST]

SA’S 10 BEST-SELLING PASSENGER CARS OF AUGUST 2017

August 2017’s aggregate new vehicle sales in South Africa came in at 49 222 units, an encouraging increase of 6,7% year-on-year, according to Naamsa.

As always, it’s also interesting to take a look at what’s happening in terms of individual model sales. So, we’ve examined the figures, and picked out the ten best-selling passenger vehicles for the month.

Of course, one must bear in mind that certain automakers – such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW – still disclose only aggregate sales statistics. Kia and Hyundai, however, have thankfully started releasing their individual model sales figures, which makes the picture a little clearer.

So, what happened in the eighth month of 2017? Well, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo predictably stayed clear at the top, with the regular Polo retaining second place. Toyota’s combination of the Corolla, Auris and Corolla Quest (the brand reports an overall figure rather than individual model sales) likewise held onto third spot.

The Toyota Etios, meanwhile, climbed two places to fourth, with the Ford EcoSport and Ford Fiesta tying for fifth place (an improvement of two places month-on-month for the latter). That saw the Toyota Fortuner drop three spots to seventh, while the new Kia Picanto climbed one to eighth.

The Renault Kwid fell one place to ninth, while the Toyota RAV4 returned to close out the table at the expense of the Datsun GO (451)

Other odds and ends

So, anything else interesting from August? Well, Fiat managed to register 56 units of its re-introduced Panda, while Alfa could move just five examples of its Giulia. Ford, meanwhile, had a number of vehicles just outside the top ten, including the Everest (536), Figo (530) and Focus (468). The Mustang, too, managed to break into three figures, with 101 units registered in the month.

Opel’s top performer was the Corsa (121), while the Mokka X weighed in with 71 units and the Astra 51 units. The BR-V (127) was again the top Honda, although the new CR-V managed a creditable 102 units.

Hyundai’s top sellers included the Grand i10 (591), i20 hatchback (491), Creta (438) and Tucson (425), with the soon-to-be-discontinued i10 (246) as well as the Elantra (243) adding useful totals. The H1 (99) was the only passenger vehicle in the Hyundai stable to dip below three figures.

Jaguar sold just a single XE, as opposed to 16 F-Type units and 45 examples of the F-Pace. The new Discovery (131) was easily Land Rover’s top performer, outselling both the Range Rover Sport (74) and Discovery Sport (71). Interestingly, Jaguar Land Rover SA has just cut its prices, so we’re keen to see if that will have an impact on September’s sales.

While the new Picanto continued to impress for Kia, again taking a place in the top ten, the only other model from the Korean automaker to add a strong contribution in August was the new Rio (504). For the record, the Sportage managed 70 units and the Cerato 21, while the Sorento (7), Grand Sedona (6) and Soul (4) each had to settle for single figures.

Mahindra’s passenger vehicle total came in at 196 units, with the KUV100 (63) proving its best seller. Mazda’s local charge was again led by the CX-5 (359), with the smaller CX-3 (332) close behind. The Mazda3 (211) and Mazda2 (203) also came to the party.

Nissan’s standout performance came from the Almera (376), while the X-Trail (328) and Qashqai (304) crossover siblings also made a strong contribution. The Juke, however, could manage just 34 units. In total, Peugeot registered 80 units in August, with the impressive new 3008 (42) making up more than half of the French brand’s sales. Subaru managed the same total, with the new XV (38) proving its top seller.

While the Kwid continued to rack up sales for Renault, the Sandero (345), Duster (271) and Clio (268) once again put in solid performances, backed up by the Kadjar (186) and Captur (146) crossovers. Suzuki fell just short of 1 000 passenger vehicle units in total in August (but hit the 1 004-mark when its handful of commercial units are included), with the Swift (350) soldiering on at the top of the pile. The Ignis weighed in with 144 units and the new Baleno 85.

The best-selling Lexus of the month was the NX with 19 units, while the Toyota Avanza (531) only just missed out on a top-ten spot. The Yaris (134), C-HR (133) and Aygo (109) also made it into three figures.

The Golf (462) was the next-best performer from VW after the Polo twins, although the Tiguan (273) and Up! (211) also stepped up to the plate in August. Audi’s new Q5 managed 162 units, while the outgoing XC60 (80) again proved Volvo’s top performer.

See the top ten table below (and have a look back at July’s figures here):

South Africa’s 10 best-selling passengers cars of August 2017:

1. Volkswagen Polo Vivo – 2 340
2. Volkswagen Polo – 2 096
3. Toyota Corolla/Auris/Quest – 1 343
4. Toyota Etios – 1 161
5=. Ford EcoSport – 1071
5=. Ford Fiesta – 1 071
7. Toyota Fortuner – 1 070
8. Kia Picanto – 846
9. Renault Kwid – 784
10. Toyota RAV4 – 651

http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/sas-10-best-selling-passenger-cars-of-august-2017/

 

[FiestaST]

New Car Sales Recover in August 2017

Take a look at how the South African automotive industry performed in August 2017.

According to sales figures released by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), aggregate domestic sales of new vehicles registered positive results for the second month in a row with year-on-year growth of 6.7%. New passenger car sales and Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) sales reflected positive gains while exports retracted during the period with a decline of 12.9%.

WesBank’s Rudolf Mahoney, Head of Brand and Communications commented, “This growth is extremely positive. The shift back to new was expected and inevitable, especially with a dwindling supply of quality used vehicles. Meanwhile, new vehicle price inflation is slowing down. It is evident that manufacturers and dealers have come to realise that right now it’s a value-for-money play, and are offering highly attractive incentives to attract customers into the new car market.”

New Car Sales Summary - August 2017

Aggregate new car sales of 49 222 up by 6.7% (+3 091 units) compared with August 2016.

New passenger car sales of 32 161 up by 5.4% (+1 654 units) compared with August 2016

LCV sales of 14 834 up by 10.8% (+1 448 units) compared with August 2016.

Export sales of 29 927 down by 12.9% (-4 431 units) compared with August 2016


Best Selling Cars in South Africa for August 2017

1. Toyota Hilux - 3 392 units

2. Ford Ranger - 2 566 units

3. Volkswagen Polo Vivo - 2 340 units

4. Volkswagen Polo - 2 096 units

5. Nissan NP200 - 1 565 units


Top 5 Car Brands in SA for August 2017

1. Toyota - 10 751 units with market share of 21.9%

2. Volkswagen - 7 299 units with market share of 14.9%

3. Ford - 6 482 units with market share of 13.2%

4. Nissan - 5 050 units with market share of 10.3%

5. Hyundai - 3 062 units with market share of 6.2%


New car sales outlook

Factors contributing to improvements in the new vehicle market include reduced new vehicle pricing pressure, lower inflationary trends and lower interest rates as of July 2017. Attractive sales incentives have also supported the demand for new vehicles.

Rudolf Mahoney said, “Interest rates are also lower, which has had a significant positive impact on consumer sentiment and willingness to apply for credit. Further rate cuts are anticipated for September and this will stimulate the market for the remainder of 2017.

“Buyers should just be very cognisant of their deal structures and how a vehicle purchase today will affect their finances four or five years down the line. They should buy smart, choose the deal that’s right for them, and plan ahead to ensure their budgets can absorb any changes in monthly affordability.”

NAAMSA predicts an overall improvement of between 1.0% and 1.5% for 2017 based on domestic sales over the last 2 months. Global economic growth remained positive which will support vehicle exports in the medium term.

http://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/new-car-sales-recover-in-august-2017/43898/

 

[FiestaST]

SA's best-selling bakkies: Toyota Hilux dominates sales

The Toyota Hilux continues to dominate local bakkie sales.

In August 2017, the Hilux found 3392 new owners in South Africa; 826 more units than the second-placed Ford Ranger (2566 units).

Behind the two market leaders, the Nissan NP200 completes the top top three most popular bakkie with 1565 units. The Isuzu KB (1372) is fourth, followed by the Nissan Hardbody/NP300 with 1232 units.

The aforementioned five bakkies were the only bakkies surpassing the 1000 unit mark.

In sixth place, the Chevrolet Ute found 677 new owners, followed by the Volkswagen Amarok on 358 units. The Toyota Land Cruiser pick-up, SA’s most expensive bakkie, reached 210 to grab eighth place ahead of the Nissan Navara (175). The Mahindra Scorpio completes the top ten with 89 units.

Naamsa commented: "Domestic sales of industry new light commercial vehicles, bakkies and mini buses at 14 834 units during August 2017 reflected substantial gain of 1448 vehicles or an improvement of 10.8% compared to the 13 386 light commercial vehicles sold during the corresponding month last year."

http://www.wheels24.co.za/News/SA_v...bakkies-toyota-hilux-dominates-sales-20170904

 

[FiestaST]

SA's top selling vehicles by segment: August

The recent positive momentum in South Africa’s new vehicle market continued in August, with vehicle sales growing 6.7 percent year-on-year to total 49 222 units, according to Naamsa.

Light commercial vehicles led the way, increasing 10.8 percent over August last year, while passenger car sales grew by 5.4 percent. Medium commercial vehicles bucked the trend however, falling 13.9 percent year-on-year, although the heavy truck and bus segment grew by 6.1 percent.

South Africa’s new vehicle exports registered a 12.9 percent decline over the same month last year, to total just 29 927 units.

Naamsa attributes the month’s solid domestic sales performance to lower vehicle price inflation along with attractive sales incentives and the recent 25 basis point interest rate reduction.

WesBank’s Rudolf Mahoney said that the growth in new car demand was inevitable, particularly with the supply of used vehicles dwindling, while aggressive new car deals also played a role:


“It is evident that manufacturers and dealers have come to realise that right now it’s a value-for-money play, and are offering highly attractive incentives to attract customers into the new car market,” Mahoney said.

On the sales charts, Toyota led by a healthy margin with overall sales of 10 751 versus Volkswagen’s 7299 and Ford’s 6482.

Toyota also surged ahead in the bakkie sales war, with 3392 Hilux sales versus Ford’s 2566 Ranger sales. Volkswagen continued to dominate the compact car segments with its Polo and Polo Vivo, while Ford ruled the compact SUV sector with its EcoSport and Toyota took top honours in the segments above that with its Rav4 and Fortuner.

Below you’ll find the top performers listed in each key segment, although due to the fact that Mercedes-Benz and BMW do not report individual sales figures we have omitted the premium segments where these brands feature prominently.

Budget Hatch/Sedan

Volkswagen Polo Vivo 2340
Toyota Etios 1161
Kia Picanto 846
Renault Kwid 784
Hyundai Grand i10 591
Ford Figo 530
Datsun Go 451
Suzuki Swift 350
Renault Sandero 345
Chevrolet Spark 248
Hyundai i10 246
Datsun Go+ 240

Compact Hatch/Sedan

Volkswagen Polo 2096
Ford Fiesta 1071
Kia Rio 504
Hyundai i20 491
Nissan Almera 376
Renault Clio 268
Audi A3 223
Mazda2 203
Hyundai Accent 183
Toyota Yaris 134
Audi A1 133
Opel Corsa 121

Compact-Medium Hatch/Sedan

Toyota Corolla/Quest/Auris 1343
Ford Focus 468
Volkswagen Golf 462
Hyundai Elantra 243
Mazda3 211
Opel Astra 51
Renault Megane 31
Volvo V40 28
Honda Civic 24
Kia Cerato 21

Compact Crossover/SUV

Ford EcoSport 1071
Hyundai Creta 438
Mazda CX-3 332
Renault Duster 271
Renault Captur 146
Suzuki Ignis 144
Toyota C-HR 133
Honda BR-V 127
Honda HR-V 93
Opel Mokka X 71
Suzuki Jimny 71
Mahindra KUV100 63

Compact-Medium Crossover/SUV

Toyota Rav4 651
Hyundai Tucson 425
Mazda CX-5 359
Nissan X-Trail 328
Nissan Qashqai 304
Volkswagen Tiguan 273
Renault Kadjar 186
Audi Q5 162
Honda CR-V 102
Volvo XC60 80
Land Rover Disco Sport 71
Kia Sportage 70

Large Crossover/SUV (Sub R1-million)

Toyota Fortuner 1070
Ford Everest 536
Toyota Land Cruiser 200 90
Jeep Grand Cherokee 65
Jeep Wrangler 38
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 38
Toyota Prado 38
Mahindra XUV 31
Chevrolet Trailblazer 26
Audi Q7 21

Bakkies

Toyota Hilux 3392
Ford Ranger 2566
Nissan NP200 1565
Isuzu KB 1372
Nissan NP300 Hardbody 1232
Chevrolet Utility 677
Volkswagen Amarok 358
Hyundai H100 337
Toyota Land Cruiser 210
Nissan Navara 175
Kia K2700 94
Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up 89

* BMW and Mercedes-Benz do report monthly sales figures

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/sas-top-selling-vehicles-by-segment-august-11060038