South Africa’s Top 5 Selling Cars in July 2025 | Hippo
August arrived with a mixed bag for South African motorists - a little cheer, and a little groan.
On the bright side, the repo rate dipped by another 0.25%, pulling prime down to 10.5%. It’s not a dramatic drop, but it does mean your monthly car repayments are now just that bit lighter. Over a few years, those small wins can add up to a decent saving (the kind that might cover a weekend getaway… or a couple of service bills).
Fuel prices increased
But before you start planning how to spend the difference, here’s the not-so-great news: fuel prices crept upward. That means each trip to the petrol station is going to cost you more than it did in July. In other words, your wallet gets a breather from the bank, only to feel the squeeze at the pump.
Meanwhile, the Naamsa rankings got their own shake-up. Hyundai and Ford swapped spots in July, with Hyundai sliding back into fourth place and Ford moving down to fifth. It’s the second time this year we’ve seen those two trade places, and the mid-table rivalry is proving to be one of the more entertaining subplots in South Africa’s car market.
So, with rates down, fuel up, and a little reshuffling in the rankings, here’s how the top five are looking this month (and what it all means for your pocket).
1. Toyota Corolla Cross: South Africa’s most popular SUV choice
Top quoted model: Corolla Cross – The reliable all-rounder
Toyota’s still sitting comfortably at number one, and the Corolla Cross remains a favourite for Hippo users. With the interest rate drop, your monthly repayment is now a smidge lighter, though the small fuel price hike takes back some of that win.
Key costs:
- Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,156
- Cost to fill the tank: R1,076
- Monthly repayment: R12,020
- Purchase price: R554,800
Still the car equivalent of that dependable friend who always has jumper cables in the boot.
Compare Toyota Corolla Cross insurance quotes to see if you could save.
2. Suzuki Swift: Affordable hatchback with low running costs
Top quoted model: Swift – Small car, big savings
The Swift continues to win over budget-conscious buyers. Even with fuel prices creeping up, it’s still one of the cheapest cars to run in the top 5. And with repayments dropping slightly, it’s an even smarter choice.
Key costs:
- Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,291
- Cost to fill the tank: R796
- Monthly repayment: R4,821
- Purchase price: R219,900
The kind of car that won’t drain your wallet, or your petrol tank.
Read more from our complete automotive guide; from insurance to renting and purchasing, you can find all the information on the car you want right here.
3. Volkswagen Polo Vivo: The local legend
Top quoted model: Polo Vivo – The local legend
No change for VW this month, as the Polo Vivo keeps its bronze medal. The fuel price bump pushes up running costs a little, but the lower interest rate helps soften the blow.
Key costs:
- Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,273
- Cost to fill the tank: R968
- Monthly repayment: R5,939
- Purchase price: R271,900
Still your go-to comfort choice, like ordering a Gatsby at 2am: reliable and satisfying every time.
4. Hyundai i20: Compact, efficient, and stylish
Top quoted model: i20 – Back in fourth place
Hyundai edges ahead of Ford again, reclaiming 4th spot. The i20’s fuel efficiency means the price bump at the pumps stings a little less here than it does for bigger vehicles.
Key costs:
- Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,282
- Cost to fill the tank: R796
- Monthly repayment: R6,756
- Purchase price: R309,900
A sensible, stylish choice if you prefer value over bragging rights.
5. Ford Ranger: South Africa’s favourite bakkie still holds strong
Top quoted model: Ranger – Still the dream drive
Ford’s Ranger slips to 5th this month, but it’s still a powerhouse on SA’s roads. Of course, power comes with a price; in this case, the highest tank and insurance costs in the top 5.
Key costs:
- Average Hippo insurance premium: R1,617
- Cost to fill the tank: R1,603
- Monthly repayment: R12,991
- Purchase price: R600,000
Read our comprehensive car guide on everything you need to know about Fords in South Africa
July 2025 at a Glance: South Africa’s Top 5 Selling Cars and Costs
Drinks more than a rugby team after a final, but still a cult favourite.
| Model (Hippo’s top quoted) | Average Hippo Insurance Premium | Cost to Fill the Tank | Monthly Repayment Based on Prime (10.5%, 60 months, no deposit) | Purchase Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota – Corolla Cross | R 1156 | R 1076 | R 12 020 | R 554 800 |
| Suzuki – Swift | R 1291 | R 796 | R 4821 | R 291 900 |
| Volkswagen – Polo Vivo | R 1273 | R 968 | R 5939 | R 271 900 |
| Hyundai – i20 | R 1282 | R 796 | R 6756 | R 309 900 |
| Ford – Ranger | R 1617 | R 1603 | R 12 991 | R 600 000 |
Final thoughts: How to save more on your car in South Africa
Quick July takeaways:
- Interest rate down to 10.5% = slightly lower monthly repayments
- Fuel price up = slightly higher running costs
- Hyundai swaps places with Ford — the mid-table tussle continues
- Insurance premiums are steady — making this a great time to compare and save
A 0.25% rate cut is nice, but checking your insurance could save you even more.
Compare car insurance quotes in South Africa today and see if your same car could cost you less to insure.
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