Feb 11, 2024
Best used cars to buy in South Africa
Introduction
Finding the perfect used car in South Africa can be challenging. You need something reliable, affordable, and able to handle the diverse driving conditions across the country. Fortunately, there's a wide range of excellent used cars that fit the bill. Some of the best-used cars to buy in South Africa include popular models such as the Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Hyundai i20 etc. These cars are known for their fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and solid build quality
Why Buy Used Cars?
The decision to buy a used car is a practical one for several reasons:
- Cost-Effective: Used cars usually have lower price tags than their newer counterparts, making them accessible to a broader consumer base.
- Stable Insurance Rates: With the depreciated value of a used car comes the benefit of more affordable insurance premiums.
- Variety and Availability: The used car market offers a broad selection of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury models, often with various features and upgrades.
- Vehicle History Reports: Many sellers provide vehicle history reports, giving potential buyers a detailed overview of the car's journey and any incidents it may have encountered.
- Reliability: Modern cars are built to last, and with meticulous maintenance, a used car can provide several years of dependable service.
Best Used Cars to Buy in South Africa
When it comes to used vehicles, several models consistently stand out for their reliability, performance, and value. Let's take a look at some of the top contenders and what makes them great choices.
Toyota Hilux
The Toyota Hilux is a globally renowned pickup truck with a legacy of conquering all kinds of terrain. From work sites to challenging expeditions, here's why the Hilux is a popular choice:
Key Features
- Robust Design: The Hilux's body-on-frame construction ensures it can take a beating, while its bold, muscular looks give it a strong road presence.
- Powerful and Efficient Engines: Typically equipped with a selection of diesel engines, including a 2.8L turbo-diesel, the Hilux prioritizes torque and fuel efficiency.
- All-Terrain Capability (4x4 Models): Many Hilux models come with shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive (4x4), locking differentials, and excellent ground clearance. This translates to tackling challenging terrain with confidence.
- Practical Load Bed: The large and versatile bed allows for hauling substantial payloads, with various configurations available for specific needs.
Specifications of Toyota Hilux
- 2.4L to 2.8L Turbo Diesel engines, Up to 200+ horsepower
- Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or Four-wheel drive (4x4)
- 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic
- Safety Features: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Airbags, Stability Control
Volkswagen Polo
The Volkswagen Polo is a subcompact car produced by the German automaker Volkswagen since 1975. It is one of the most popular models in the Volkswagen lineup and has been sold in over 80 countries worldwide. The Polo is available in a variety of body styles, including a three-door hatchback, a five-door hatchback, and a four-door sedan. It is also offered with a range of engines, including petrol, diesel, and electric powertrains.
Key Features
- Stylish and Practical Design: The Volkswagen Polo boasts a sporty yet sophisticated design that's compact enough for city driving and spacious enough for comfortable journeys.
- Fuel-Efficient Engines: The Polo is available with a range of petrol and diesel engines that offer excellent fuel economy without compromising on performance.
- Comfortable Interior: The interior is well-designed and features high-quality materials, offering a pleasant and comfortable space for driver and passengers.
- Safety Focus: The Polo prioritizes safety with features like multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and electronic stability control (ESC).
Specifications of Volkswagen Polo
- 1.5-liter TSI Petrol engine, 1.6-liter TDI Diesel engine
- Manual or automatic transmission
- Dimensions: Length approx. 406 cm, width approx. 176 cm, height approx. 145 cm
- Safety Features: Multiple airbags, ABS, ESC, Rear parking sensors
- Digital cockpit (replaces traditional gauges)
- Alloy wheels
- Automatic climate control
- Sunroof
Ford Ranger
For those with the spirit of adventure, the Ford Ranger is a formidable choice. With rugged capabilities and imposing statues, the Ranger tackles rough terrains and towing tasks with equal ease.
Key Features
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Engine: The standard engine with 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft of torque offers a great balance of power and efficiency
- Terrain Management System: Helps optimize traction on different terrain types, from mud and sand to snow and gravel.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,500 lbs (when properly equipped), making it great for hauling boats, trailers, or campers.
- Ford Co-Pilot 360: Safety suite including features like pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
- Functional Interior: Designed for comfort and utility, with durable materials and a layout tailored for work or adventure.
Specifications of Ford Ranger
- Drive type: 4x2 or 4x4
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Wheelbase: 128.7 inches
- Bed Length: 5 feet or 6 feet
- Cab Styles: SuperCab or SuperCrew
- Trim Levels: XL, XLT, Lariat, Tremor, (and likely, in the future, Raptor)
Hyundai i20
The Hyundai i20 is a subcompact hatchback produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai since 2008. It is positioned below the larger i30 and above the smaller i10 in Hyundai's lineup. The i20 has been sold in various markets around the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Key Features
- Modern and Sporty Design: The Hyundai i20 features a sleek, aerodynamic design with bold lines and a striking front grille.
- Spacious and Comfortable Interior: Offers ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, as well as comfortable, well-contoured seats.
- Advanced Technology: Depending on the trim, features may include a large touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging etc.
- Safety Features: Hyundai i20 often includes a strong focus on safety with features like multiple airbags, Anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Rear parking sensors or camera, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in higher trims (Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision Warning, etc.)
Specifications of Hyundai i20
- 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine
- Manual or automatic transmissions:
- Dimensions: Length approx. 400 cm, width approx. 178 cm, height approx. 151 cm
- Fuel efficiency varies depending on engine choice and driving conditions, but the i20 is generally known for good fuel economy.
Suzuki Swift
The Suzuki Swift is a subcompact car produced by Suzuki since 1983. It is available in hatchback, sedan, and convertible body styles. The Swift is known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and sporty handling.
Key Features
- Sporty and Stylish Design: The Suzuki Swift exudes a fun, youthful vibe with its sleek body lines, sculpted curves, and a choice of vibrant colors.
- Fuel Efficiency: Known for its fuel-sipping engines, often paired with mild-hybrid technology for even better mileage.
- Comfortable Interior: Despite its compact size, the Swift offers a surprisingly roomy cabin with adequate space for passengers.
- Safety: While specific safety features vary by trim level, most Swifts come with airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution).
Specifications of Suzuki Swift
- 1.2L or 1.4L inline-4 cylinder petrol engines; some models offer mild-hybrid technology.
- 5-speed manual transmission or CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- 80-100 horsepower
- Excellent fuel economy is a hallmark of the Swift, with ratings often exceeding 20 km/l
- Dimensions: Length approx. 385 cm, width approx. 174 cm and height approx. 150 cm
Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Car
Purchasing a used car isn't just about the car itself; it's a decision that should factor in various considerations to ensure that the purchase meets your immediate needs and fits into your long-term plans.
Budget: Your budget should be the starting point of your used car hunting expedition. Analyze your finances and set a realistic spending cap, including any potential loan amounts and insurance costs. Remember, your car budget should also cover taxes, maintenance, and a reserve for unexpected repairs.
Vehicle Type and Size: What will you primarily use the car for? Will it be your daily driver for city commutes or a weekend pleasure machine for road trips with friends? Tailoring your purchase to the activities you'll engage in will help determine the type and size of the vehicle that best suits your lifestyle.
Fuel Efficiency: With the ever-increasing cost of fuel, opting for a vehicle with a reputation for good fuel efficiency can provide significant savings over time. Assess your weekly driving distance and the typical road conditions to select a vehicle that won't break the bank at the pump.
Maintenance and Repair Costs: No vehicle is immune to the wear and tear that comes with age. Higher mileage cars, older models, and certain brands might equate to more frequent and expensive repairs. Research common maintenance costs for the models you're interested in and ensure they align with your budget.
A Final Thought
The used car market in South Africa offers great choices to suit a variety of budgets and needs. By doing your research, keeping the key points in mind, and finding a well-maintained vehicle, you can drive away with a car that you'll enjoy for years to come!