Once seen as underdogs in the automotive industry, Chinese car brands have rapidly gained traction in South Africa, with used car sales surging by 89% in the first half of 2025, according to AutoTrader’s latest midyear report.

Leading the remarkable growth is BYD, which saw an exceptional 637% increase in used vehicle sales. Jaecoo also made significant strides, growing sales by 168%, while Omoda rose by 99%. Even more established Chinese brands like GWM, Haval, BAIC, and Chery recorded notable upticks, with used sales increasing 71%, 33%, 16%, and 14% respectively.

CEO George Mienie attributed this rapid growth to a structural shift in consumer priorities, noting that South African buyers are increasingly favouring value and technology over traditional brand prestige. “Chinese automakers have found a way to deliver exceptional value at a fraction of the traditional cost, offering roughly 80% of what buyers expect for only 60% of the price.,” he explained.

The appeal is extending to electrified vehicles as well, with Chinese hybrids gaining prominence. Models such as the Haval H6, Haval Jolion, and GWM Tank 300 were among the top 10 best-selling hybrid cars nationally from January to June 2025.

Despite these gains, legacy brands Toyota, Volkswagen, Suzuki, and Hyundai remain firmly entrenched as the most popular choices in the country. However, Mienie emphasised that established automakers should not be complacent, as Chinese brands are reshaping market expectations and raising competitive standards.