Despite an 8.3% monthly dip, the iconic bakkie outsells all rivals as South Africa’s vehicle market surges 22% year-on-year
Key Takeaways: Hilux Reigns Supreme
#1 Overall
Sold 2,548 units despite an 8.3% monthly decline
Bakkie Battle
Outpaced Ford Ranger by 401 sales despite Ranger’s 24.2% surge
Market Leader
Toyota sold 10,330 vehicles overall – double second-place Suzuki
Economic Tailwinds
Interest rate cuts and Rand stability fueled record demand
May 2025 Sales: By the Numbers
South Africa’s automotive market roared back to life in May 2025, with total vehicle sales surging 22% year-on-year. The bakkie segment, long the heartbeat of SA’s auto industry, saw a healthy 5.8% increase. Yet despite shifting consumer preferences and aggressive competition, one constant remained: the Toyota Hilux in the top position.
Top Bakkies: May 2025
| Rank | Model | Units Sold | MoM Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota Hilux | 2,548 | ▼ 8.3% |
| 2 | Ford Ranger | 2,147 | ▲ 24.2% |
| 3 | Isuzu D-Max | 1,473 | ▲ 32.9% |
| 4 | Mahindra Pik Up | 786 | ▲ 20.2% |
| 5 | Nissan Navara | 389 | ▲ 32.8% |
Top Manufacturers
| Rank | Brand | Units Sold | Market Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota | 10,330 | 22.8% |
| 2 | Suzuki | 5,536 | 12.2% |
| 3 | Volkswagen | 4,582 | 10.1% |
| 4 | Hyundai | 3,251 | 7.2% |
| 5 | Ford | 2,932 | 6.5% |
“Consumer confidence surged thanks to rate cuts and geopolitical stability. But households remain under pressure – innovation is key to maintaining momentum.”
Brandon Cohen, NADA Chair
Why the Hilux Still Rules Mzansi’s Roads
Economic Tailwinds
The SARB’s 25-basis-point rate cut slashed borrowing costs just as inflation eased to 2.8%. For Hilux buyers financing a R800k bakkie, this meant approximately R1,500/month savings compared to 2024 rates.
Brand Equity & Versatility
From KZN farm roads to Sandton showrooms, the Hilux is cultural shorthand for toughness. Social media debates rage, yet sales prove its aspirational pull remains untouchable.
Strategic Pricing
Toyota’s diverse pricing strategy captures everyone from fleet buyers to urban professionals:
Entry Level
2.4 GD-6 Raider 4×2
Premium Power
2.8 GD-6 Legend 4×2 Auto
Export Strength
While local sales dipped slightly, Toyota’s global export network (with Hilux as SA’s #1 exported vehicle) provides stability amid domestic demand fluctuations.
Rising Competition: Closing the Gap
Ford Ranger’s Surge
Up 24% MoM – its closest gap to the Hilux in 2024. Silverton’s production ramp-up is paying dividends.
Chinese Onslaught
GWM (+71.7%) and Mahindra (+62%) grew explosively, though volumes remain fractional compared to Toyota.
Suzuki’s Passenger Coup
The Swift (1,842 units) topped passenger vehicles, signaling shifting consumer preferences in urban areas.
What’s Next for the Hilux?
Short-Term
Expect a June rebound as rate cuts fully filter through to showrooms. Dealers report increased foot traffic and improved financing approvals.
Mid-Term
Facelift models (spotted testing in Gauteng) could inject fresh momentum amid Ranger’s redesign buzz. Look for tech upgrades and refined interiors.
Long-Term
Hybrid/electric variants must accelerate to counter looming emissions regulations. Toyota’s global EV strategy will be crucial for SA relevance.
“Will Navara’s surprise top-5 entry last? Rosslyn plant uncertainty clouds Nissan’s future.” – Ryan Bubear, Automotive Analyst
The Bottom Line
The Hilux isn’t just a bakkie – it’s a South African institution. Even in a month of “decline
