Sales of used Chinese vehicles on AutoTrader have surged by 89% in the first half of 2025, signaling a significant shift in the South African automotive market. As Chinese automakers gain traction, established brands are beginning to feel the pressure, according to AutoTrader CEO George Mienie.
The mid-year report indicates that new-car sales for Chinese brands have also soared, with used car sales showing remarkable growth. BYD led the charge with a staggering 637% increase, followed by Jaecoo at 168% and Omoda at 99%. While these brands are still emerging players in the market, their growth comes from a relatively small base.
Established brands like Toyota, Volkswagen, Suzuki, and Hyundai continue to dominate the local market, but the rising quality and competitive pricing of Chinese vehicles are drawing consumer interest. Mienie noted that South African consumers are increasingly prioritizing value over brand prestige, seeking cars that offer safety, luxury features, and technology at competitive prices.
Other notable Chinese brands have also seen growth in used car sales on AutoTrader, with GWM, Haval, BAIC, and Chery increasing by 71%, 33%, 16%, and 14% respectively. Searches for Chinese cars on the platform have increased by 67% year-on-year, highlighting a structural shift in consumer preferences.
“This is more than a sales increase; it’s a structural shift in the market,” Mienie emphasized. “Chinese automakers are providing exceptional value at a fraction of the traditional cost, changing what South Africans view as affordable and technologically advanced.”
The report also highlighted the introduction of well-priced electrified vehicles, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids, from several Chinese manufacturers like Chery, BYD, Omoda, and Haval. While these vehicles are typically more expensive, their presence in the market is notable, with models like the Haval H6 and GWM Tank 300 ranking among the top ten best-selling hybrid cars from January to June 2025.
Despite the surge in sales for Chinese vehicles, Mienie reassured that legacy automakers still enjoy strong consumer support, as reflected in sales and searches. No Chinese vehicles have yet breached the top ten lists in these categories, indicating that established brands still hold significant consumer loyalty.
As the automotive landscape evolves, the competition among automakers is intensifying, setting new benchmarks for quality and pricing that all brands will need to meet.