If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you’re likely to encounter an overwhelming variety of options - especially in South Africa. We love our cars and choosing the right fit is as much practical as it is a status thing.
However, our beloved country offers diverse driving conditions (to say the least), something you’ll need to consider when you make your choice.
You’ll find all types of vehicles from large bakkies (think Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger) to nimble hatchbacks (Ford Figo or VW Polo) meaning you’ll have some tough choices to make. The car you choose will not only need to align with your lifestyle and budget, but also your environment.
This guide will walk you through the most popular car body types in South Africa, highlighting their features, advantages, and drawbacks so you can confidently choose the best fit for your needs.
When it comes to popularity, the compact, nimble, and highly practical hatchback takes the top spot according to the 2024 SA Car Industry report with a whopping 29.07% of the total sales. Their smaller size makes them easy to navigate in traffic and park in tight spaces, while their hatch-style rear door provides convenient access to the boot.
Despite their compact design, many hatchbacks offer surprisingly spacious interiors and are ideal for small families. What’s more, they tend to have a great resale value.
Pros: Hatchbacks are budget-friendly, fuel-efficient, and easy to maintain. Their versatile boot space is perfect for shopping trips or weekend getaways.
Cons: Less boot space compared to sedans or SUVs can be a drawback if you need to transport something a bit bigger.
Popular Models: Volkswagen Polo, Volkswagen Polo Vivo, Suzuki Swift.
Best For: Students, first-time buyers, and those who prioritise affordability and convenience.
The double cab bakkie is a quintessential South African vehicle, coming in a close second to the hatchback with 27.53% of the total sales. Known for its ruggedness and ability to balance work and play, it’s a South African favourite.
With two rows of seating and extra space on the back of the bakkie, these vehicles are versatile enough for family adventures and tough enough for business use.
Whether you’re transporting equipment for work or heading out for a weekend of camping, the double cab delivers.
Pros: Offers a mix of passenger comfort and cargo utility, making it ideal for both personal and professional use.
Cons: Higher fuel consumption and parking challenges in urban areas.
Popular Models: Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max.
Best For: Families and outdoor enthusiasts who need a versatile, all-purpose vehicle.
Similar to a double cab, just with just a bit more finesse, SUVs are the new cool kid on the block. We love our SUVs for their versatility and ability to handle both urban and off-road environments.
According to the SA Car Industry report SUVs are the fastest-growing body type by popularity and sales in South Africa with a total sales of 16.34%.
With higher ground clearance, spacious interiors, and rugged designs, SUVs are perfect for families, adventure enthusiasts, and professionals alike. Whether you’re tackling uneven rural roads or enjoy long family road trips, an SUV offers a combination of comfort and capability.
Pros: Ample passenger and cargo space, ability to handle rough terrain, and a commanding driving position.
Cons: Larger size and higher running costs compared to smaller vehicles.
Popular Models: Toyota Fortuner, Ford Ecosport, VW T-Cross.
Best For: Families, road-trippers, and those who occasionally venture off the beaten path.
Sedans have been a cornerstone of the automotive world for decades, but surprisingly, they’re coming in 4th as a South African favourite. They’re a bit “old school” if we’re being honest, only raking in 14.37% of the total sales.
Known for their classic design and practicality, sedans are a great secondhand vehicle to buy, perfect for those who value comfort and reliability.
Their four-door layout and separate boot make them ideal for families or even as an Uber vehicle if you’re thinking of starting a side hustle.
Pros: Sedans are versatile and come in a range of sizes, from compact to full-size luxury models. They also tend to offer smooth handling and better fuel efficiency compared to larger vehicles.
Cons: While sedans are great on tarred roads, they’re not designed for rough terrain or off-road adventures.
Popular Models: Toyota Corolla Quest, BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Best For: Families and professionals who need a reliable vehicle with ample space and comfort.
Single cab bakkies are practical to say the least. Built for hard work and efficiency, they’re a favourite among farmers, contractors, and small business owners in South Africa taking 10.48% of the total sales. The single cab maximizes cargo space with a two-seat cabin, while the extended cab provides additional storage or occasional passenger seating.
Pros: Robust and reliable workhorses, with options to suit various business needs.
Cons: Limited passenger space in single cab models.
Popular Models: Nissan NP200, Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger.
Best For: Business owners, farmers, and anyone needing a practical, no-nonsense vehicle.
Special mention to the Kia K2700 that is quickly becoming a force on its own. This bakkie truck evolution with no real body “type” has become a popular choice for movers and business owners.
As a special mention, we have to add the minibus. Minibuses are a common sight on South African roads, thanks to their versatility and capacity for transporting larger groups. From serving as public taxis to being used by businesses or large families, these vehicles are all about practicality.
With seating for up to 6 to 16 passengers, a minibus is the go-to choice when you need to move more people than a standard car can handle.
Pros: Spacious interiors and excellent for group travel.
Cons: Bulky size can make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.
Popular Models: Toyota Quantum, Nissan NV350.
Best For: Shuttle services, public transport operators, and large families.
No list would be complete without the 4X4. South Africa’s diverse terrain and our love for camping calls for a vehicle that can handle rugged trails, gravel roads, sandy dunes and a caravan with ease. That’s where 4WD/4X4 vehicles come in.
These cars are designed to tackle off-road challenges, making them perfect for farmers, adventurers and anyone living in remote areas.
Whether you’re exploring the Drakensberg or navigating rural farm roads, a 4X4 is up to the task.
Pros: Superior off-road performance and the ability to handle tough terrain.
Cons: Higher purchase price and running costs, as well as lower fuel efficiency.
Popular Models: Toyota Land Cruiser, Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Defender.
Best For: Off-road enthusiasts and those living in areas with challenging road conditions.
Surprisingly, some really high-end coupes make the list in SA. No one calles them coupes– you drive a C-Class or an BMW 2 Series. These cars are the epitome of style and class, designed for those who value aesthetics and performance. With their sleek two-door design and often a sloping roofline, coupes are perfect for making a statement on the road.
Although coupes might not offer the same practicality as sedans or hatchbacks, coupes cater to individuals who prioritise luxury, speed, and a more intimate driving experience.
Pros: Coupes stand out for their sleek, aerodynamic design and often come with high-performance engines.
Cons: Coupes only have two doors and limited rear seating space, making coupes less practical.
Popular Models: Audi TT, BMW 2 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Porsche 911.
Best For: Individuals or couples who want a stylish and luxurious car for city driving or long scenic drives. Coupes are ideal for professionals or enthusiasts looking for a vehicle that combines performance with elegance.
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