In November, Kia emerged as the leader in South Africa's used car market, experiencing a significant 25% increase in sales compared to the previous month. This growth was primarily driven by the popularity of the Picanto hatch, which recorded the highest month-on-month percentage increase among the top 10 best-selling models at 20.8%.
Overall Market Performance
Despite Kia's impressive performance, November saw a slight dip of 2% in used car sales compared to October. AutoTrader reported 32,300 units sold, amounting to a total value of R13 billion. However, the average price of used cars increased to R405,226, attributed to a decrease in the average age of purchased vehicles from five to four years.
Top Sellers in November
The Ford Ranger claimed the top spot as the most sought-after used car, with 1,857 units sold. Following closely behind were the Toyota Hilux and VW Polo, with 1,494 and 1,460 units sold, respectively. Other popular models included the VW Polo Vivo, Toyota Fortuner, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and BMW 3 Series.
Kia Picanto's Remarkable Performance
The Kia Picanto stood out in November's sales figures, securing the eighth position with 533 units sold. With an average price of R178,827 and an average age of just two years, the Picanto appealed to buyers seeking affordability and reliability. Its success overshadowed competitors like the Suzuki Swift and even outperformed the Ford EcoSport. The Picanto's blend of cost-effectiveness, modern features, and dependable performance makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable vehicle.
Factors Influencing Market Dynamics
Several factors influenced the market dynamics observed in November. The decline in Ford EcoSport sales could be attributed to its discontinuation, leading to fewer available units in the used car market. Additionally, existing owners may be holding onto their EcoSports for longer periods, reducing the number of units entering the resale market. This trend reflects broader shifts in consumer preferences and the availability of models in the used car segment.
