Top 5 Cheapest Cars in South Africa Pros and Cons

With living costs climbing faster than a Cape Town cable car, finding the cheapest cars in South Africa for 2025 is a game-changer. Therefore, here’s a fresh, fun guide to the five most affordable cars, packed with pros, cons, and specs to help you pick your perfect ride. Thinking of selling your car? Why List Your Car with Joburg Pretoria Cars to enjoy faster sales and trusted exposure. Moreover, all details are updated for 2025 in a quick 2-minute read!

Car Model	Starting Price	Engine	Fuel Economy	Transmission
Toyota Vitz	R178,800	1.0L 3-cyl	4.4 L/100km	5-speed Manual/AMT
Suzuki S-Presso	R178,900	1.0L 3-cyl	4.4 L/100km	5-speed Manual/AMT
Suzuki Celerio	R188,900	1.0L 3-cyl	4.4 L/100km	5-speed Manual/AMT
Renault Kwid	R196,999	1.0L 3-cyl	4.9 L/100km	5-speed Manual/AMT
Suzuki Swift	R217,900	1.2L 3-cyl	4.4 L/100km	5-speed Manual/CVT

1. Toyota Vitz 2023 : Cheapest Cars with Toyota Trust

Toyota Vitz – one of South Africa’s cheapest cars options for budget-conscious drivers

credit: www.toyota.co.za

Starting at R178,800, the Vitz (a rebadged Suzuki Celerio) is South Africa’s cheapest car. For instance, its 1.0L engine (49 kW, 89 Nm) delivers 4.4 L/100km, ideal for city commutes. Additionally with 2025’s stability control upgrade, it’s reliable but basic inside.

Pros: Lowest price, fuel-efficient, Toyota reliability.
Cons: Plain interior, underpowered for highways.
Source: www.cars.co.za

2. Suzuki S-Presso 2020: Cheapest Cars with SUV Vibes

Suzuki S-Presso – stylish and practical choice among the cheapest cars model in South Africa

credits: www.suzukiauto.co.za

Next, from R178,900, the S-Presso offers mini-SUV style and a 1.0L engine (49 kW, 89 Nm, 4.4 L/100km). In fact high ground clearance tackles potholes, but it’s noisy at speed.

Pros: Affordable, fuel-efficient, SUV-like stance.
Cons: Noisy engine, basic features.
Source: www.autotrader.co.za

3. Suzuki Celerio 2022: Cheapest Cars for Practicality

Suzuki Celerio reliable and fuel-efficient hatchback among South Africa’s cheapest cars

credits: www.suzukiauto.co.za

Priced from R188,900, the Celerio (49 kW, 89 Nm, 4.4 L/100km) is a spacious hatchback and 2024/25 #CarsAwards finalist. For example, it’s great for parking but lacks highway power.

Pros: Roomy for size, fuel-efficient, easy to drive.
Cons: Weak on highways, simple interior.
Source: www.cars.co.za

4. Renault Kwid 2016: Cheapest Cars with Style

Renault Kwid – stylish and affordable SUV-inspired hatchback in South Africa’s cheapest cars lineup

credits: www.renault.co.za

Furthermore, as low as R196,999, the Kwid brings SUV-inspired looks, a 1.0L engine (50 kW, 91 Nm, 4.9 L/100km), and an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. However, it’s modern but cramped.

Pros: Stylish, modern tech, decent economy.
Cons: Tight cabin, some reliability concerns.
Source: www.arcadiafinance.co.za

5. Suzuki Swift 2024: Cheapest Car with Fun Factor

Suzuki Swift – fun and efficient hatchback among South Africa’s cheapest cars

credits: www.suzuki.co.za

Finally, the Swift, costing from R217,900, offers a peppy 1.2L engine (60 kW, 112 Nm, 4.4 L/100km) and sharp handling. In addition, as a 2024/25 #CarsAwards finalist, it’s pricier with a small boot.

Pros: Fun to drive, stylish, efficient.
Cons: Higher price, limited trunk space.
Source: www.cars.co.za

Tips for Buying the Cheapest Car

Consideration	Why It Matters
Fuel Efficiency	4.4–4.9 L/100km saves big with rising petrol prices.
Maintenance Costs	Suzukis/Toyotas have low upkeep; check Renault spares.
Safety Features	All include ABS, dual airbags; Vitz/S-Presso add stability control.
Resale Value	Toyota/Suzuki retain 60–65% value after 3 years.

Pro Moves: Firstly haggle at dealers, then explore used cars and compare finance rates (9–13%).

Disclaimer: Prices/features may change thus, verify with www.suzukiauto.co.za, www.toyota.co.za or www.renault.co.za, before buying. Happy driving!