South Africa’s new-vehicle sales hit their highest level in a decade last month, with 55 956 units sold in October – up 16% from a year earlier, according to Naamsa. Year-to-date sales reached 493 053, a 15.7% increase over 2024. Exports also rose slightly to 32 659 units, lifting annual shipments by 6.7%. Light commercial vehicles led the gains with a 23.9% jump, while passenger cars climbed 14.8%. Naamsa said mixed consumer sentiment persists, but a rising durable-goods index suggests growing confidence where credit remains available.