The Rise Of Chinese Cars In SA And What It Means For Buyers/ Market
A few years ago, few South Africans would’ve guessed that Chinese cars would become serious contenders in local showrooms. Yet here we are, and the numbers speak for themselves. Chinese brands now account for 11.8% of South Africa’s new vehicle market, up from just 2.8% in 2020.
A few years ago, few South Africans would’ve guessed that Chinese cars would become serious contenders in local showrooms. Yet here we are, and the numbers speak for themselves. Chinese brands now account for 11.8% of South Africa’s new vehicle market, up from just 2.8% in 2020.
Let’s take a look at the insights provided by Naamsa (National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa). Chery, in particular, has made waves, topping first-quarter 2025 sales with 5,739 new vehicles sold in South Africa, narrowly edging past GWM’s 5,535 units. On the model level, Chery’s Tiggo 4 Pro sold 3,371 units in that quarter and ranked 6th overall in passenger cars. It has been a notable reversal of fortunes for Chery, considering it withdrew from the South African market in 2018 after its initial entry struggled to gain traction.
Since then, Chery has reinvented itself globally, earning recognition for quality and design. Its models have won numerous awards in markets such as Brazil, Egypt, and Indonesia, where the brand is experiencing strong sales, a testament to its progress since those early challenges.
Other players, such as OMODA, JAECOO, Foton, BAIC, and JAC, have also contributed to the accelerated footprint of Chinese brands. The question on many lips is: how did these brands get here, and what does the future hold?
Drivers Behind The Rise
Why are Chinese brands climbing so steadily in South Africa? A few interlinked factors help explain the trend.
Value proposition: Industry experts point out that pricing has been a major driver behind the growing popularity of Chinese cars. Brands such as Chery have positioned themselves as strong value-for-money choices, offering more features at prices often lower than those of their European and Japanese counterparts.
Technological catch-up and product strategy: The latest Chinese models aren’t what they once were. They come with strong design, infotainment systems, driver assistance features, and hybrid options.
SUV Appeal: Both globally and locally, the demand for SUVs shows no sign of slowing down. Chinese automakers have tapped into this trend by offering a wide range of models, from compact city crossovers to spacious family SUVs that match the preferences of South African buyers.
Distribution and network expansion: Increased dealer networks, improved service and stronger warranties are helping build trust. Chery and Chinese players are working to close the gap on legacy brands.
Local alignment & production considerations: Local assembly (or the intention thereof) is a big deal. It has been confirmed that South Africa is engaging Chinese manufacturers to produce vehicles locally. In fact, China’s Chery is exploring plant-sharing opportunities, whether through partnerships with existing facilities, joint ventures, or even setting up a new greenfield plant to assemble vehicles locally.
Market receptivity: South Africans are increasingly open to non-traditional brands. Younger buyers, in particular, are less tied to heritage brands and more interested in tech, value and design.
What This Means For The South African Car Market
The surging wave of Chinese automotive progress is shaking up the legacy players. With Chinese imports growing and assembly plants imminent, established brands face pressure on multiple fronts. They are compelled to innovate faster, offer more competitive pricing, and improve their value propositions to retain market share amid the influx of competitively priced alternatives with appealing specs.
Ultimately, consumers stand to benefit from more choices, better technology, and more affordable vehicles. Compared to a decade ago, the market offers significantly more value per rand.
Final Thoughts
The rise of Chinese automotive brands in Mzansi is undeniable. For brands such as Chery, it’s more than just good fortune. It has more to do with strategy, product relevance and brand execution. As Chinese makers continue building trust, expanding networks and localising production, their relevance for South African drivers will only grow.
For buyers, especially those focused on value, tech and long-term ownership, the market is opening up in interesting ways. And for traditional brands, the challenge here is to either evolve or risk losing ground.
Group1 Chery is proud to be part of this exciting new era. Explore our full range of Chery SUVs and crossovers, take a test drive, and experience first-hand why more South Africans are choosing Chery every day.
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