20 Cheapest Cars in South Africa This Year

Some people buy cars as a necessity while others do so for luxury. The truth is that everyone cannot drive exotic cars; that’s why there are cars for low-income earners, average income-earners, and then high-income earners. If you earn a low or average salary, you will find below 20 cheapest cars in South Africa you can buy this year.

It is worthy to note that there are certain things you must know about cars before you pay for them, and some of them include their durability and accessibility. The cars on our list, even though they are cheap and affordable, have quality and are durable too. You do not need to break a bank or even sell land to own any of them.

Facts To Know About These 20 Cheapest Cars in South Africa 

1. Chery QQ3 0. 8TE

• Price: R59,900
• Brand: Chery 
• Fuel economy: 6.3 Litres per 100km

The Chery QQ3 0.8TE is one of the cheapest cars in South Africa and very affordable too. It’s a go-to for low-income earners basically because it is pocket-friendly. Apart from its short first gear, Chery QQ3 0.8 TE has four others gears and also travels about 130km/hr. It is a nice option for within town cruises, especially for long roads. It boasts a fuel economy of about 6.3L per 100km, hence, giving off a 38KW from its 812cc engine.

Chery comes with a 3 Year / 100000 KM warranty and an optional service plan.

Other features/specs of Chery QQ3 0. 8TE include

• Gearbox Details: 5-speed manual
• Front Brakes: Discs
• Rear Brakes: Drums
• Fuel Type: Unleaded
• Rim Size-Front: 5J
• Rim Size-Rear: 5JDrive Wheels: front
• Number of Wheels Driven: 2
• Power steering
• Manual / Automatic: Manual
• Boot Capacity: 190

2. Datsun Go RS 4.02

• Price: R129, 800
• Brand: Datsun 
• Fuel economy: 19.02 kmpl (manual); 19.59 kmpl (automatic)

Datsun Go is one of the cheapest in South Africa right now. The automobile is a five-seater hatchback vehicle whose legendary fuel economy and consumption rate cover 19.59 km for every 1 liter of fuel. It also comes with a 1198cc engine pushing, a 50KW of power, and 104NM torque. Its speed rate is about 161km/hr.

This brand’s cheapest versions in South Africa are in 2015 and 2016. If you desire an economical car, Datsun Go would be ideal. The car has many nice safety features, such as an anti-lock braking system, brake assist, central locking, child safety locks, and power door locks.

Other features/specs of Datsun Go RS 4.02 include

• Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated 12V
• No. of cylinder: 3
• No of Doors: 5
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Front Suspension: McPherson Strut with Lower Transverse Link
• Mileage (ARAI): 19.59
• Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 35.0
• Gearbox: 5
• Android Auto, Apple Car Play
• Tinted Glass

3. Renault Kwid 1.0 expression

• Price: R144, 900
• Brand: Renault 
• Fuel Economy: 4.7 liters per 100 km (manual); 4.4 liters per 100 know (automatic)

This legendary vehicle is the most popular amongst other Renault car brands. The Renault kwid 1.0 expression is popular in South Africa and among the cheapest cars one can afford. Its reliability is backed up across all Kwid models with a 5-year/150 000km warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty.

The car is powered by a 50kw engine, and it has a 1-liter fuel capacity and 91NM torque. Its other features include two airbags, an auto or manual central lock, a standard ABS. These features are well designed to help safeguard you and your vehicle appropriately.

Other features of Renault kwid 1.0 Expression

• Airbag – Driver & Front Passenger
• ABS + EBD
• Rear Park Distance Sensors
• Reverse Parking Camera
• Engine immobilizer
• High mounted stop lamp
• High Safety Pro-Sense Front Seat Belts
• Seat Belt Reminder
• Fuel tank capacity: 28 liters
• Seating capacity: 5

4. Renault Triber 1.0 Expression

• Price: R164, 900
• Brand: Renault 
• Fuel economy: 5.5 liters per 100 km

Renault Triber 1.0 expression is a classy vehicle designed to give users premium car usage satisfaction. The vehicle was introduced in South Africa in February 2020. Being a five-seater vehicle, it is no doubt a good wheel for a family cruise, picnics, and vacations – thanks to its space. It has sufficient liter fuel capacity, a 52KW engine power, and 96N.m torque. Renault Triber has a five-year warranty, a two-year service plan, and a 150000 Km warranty distance.

Other features/specs of Renault Triber 1.0 Expression include

• Fuel range: 727 Km
• Body shape: MPV
• Fuel tank capacity: 40 liters
• Gearshift: Manual
• Cylinders: 3
• Central locking Remote
• Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, Auxiliary input
• Park distance control rear

5. Hyundai Atos 1.1 motion

• Price: R159, 900
• Brand: Hyundai 
• Fuel Economy: 5.9 liters per 100 km

Need portability?, then think Hyundai Atos 1.1 motion. This amazing automobile is not just economical (famed for low fuel consumption) and suitable for low-income-earners, but it also gives them great value for their money.

Owing to its durability, Hyundai has earned and maintained a profound reputation in the automobile market over the years. This car has a 1.1-liter four-pot powered by 50kw and 99N.m torque. It has beautiful interiors, including Android Auto/Apple Carplay, an all-music streaming app, USB/Bluetooth, chat hand-free on Whatsapp, as well as a 12V charger.

The car has a 1-year service plan with intervals every 15 000 km, a 7-year/200 000 km warranty, and roadside assistance for 7 years/150 000 km.

Other features/specs of Hyundai Atos 1.1 motion include

• Engine: 1.1 naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder petrol
• Power/Torque: 50 kW / 99 Nm
• Transmission:  5-speed manual gearbox
• Fuel economy:
• Load capacity: 235 liters
• 1.1L 4 Cylinder Petrol
• 5-speed manual transmission
• 99 Nm @ 2800 r / min torque
• 50 kW @ 5500 r / min power

6. BAIC D20 1.3 comfort

• Price: R149, 990
• Brand: BAIC 
• Fuel Economy: 7 liters per 100km

BAIC D20 1.3 sells for R149,000. It is a strong and reliable car that has the capability of gliding and stretching effortlessly over rough terrain. It has a 1.3-liter four-pot engine powered by 75KW and 128N.m torque, which is delivered in its front wheel through a five-speed manual. If you want a cheap car with amazing interior and exterior designs, BAIC D20 1.3 comfort would be ideal.

Other features of BAIC D20 1.3 include

• Fuel type: Petrol
• Brakes: Ventilated disc/drum
• Fuel tank capacity (liter): 45
• Electrically adjustable side mirrors
• Electric power steering
• Adjustable steering wheel
• Driver seat belt warning
• Anti-theft alarm system
• Automatic door lock with speed sensor
• Engine immobilizer

7. KIA Picanto

• Price: R176, 995
• Brand: Kia 
• Fuel Economy: 8.2 liters per 100km

Kia automobile manufacturers are doing a great job in South African. The Kia Picanto is not just affordable, but it also has the quality and is durable. I think the manufacturers of this vehicle had the average South African income earners in mind while designing it. If you are an average income earner scouting for a cheap car in South Africa, KIA Picanto won’t be a bad choice. The vehicle runs on a 1.1 to 1.25-liter petrol engine with an excellent mpg return. The fuel capacity covers 8.2L per 100km.

Other features of KIA Picanto include

• Sliding & Reclining Front Seats
• Tilt Steering Wheel Adjustment
• Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)
• Emergency Stop Signalling (ESS)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Motor-Driven Power Steering
• Anti-Theft Alarm System
• Fuel tank capability: Petrol 1.0 DPi (66bhp) ISG
• Fuel liters: 35
• Max. power, bhp at rpm: 66/5,500

8. Tata Bolt 1.2 Turbo

• Price: R132, 995
• Brand: Tata
• Fuel Economy: 5.7-liter per 100 km

Tata cars are currently among the most sought-after cars in South Africa, and it has everything to do with their built, design, and quality. Tata bolt 1.2 Turbo was built between 2014 and 2019 and is particularly cheap and affordable. The five-seater hatchback vehicle, which is 150.59 inches long, has a mileage of 1litre of diesel/ 30km. It also has five gears, which is considered an advantage.

Other features/ specs of Tata Bolt 1.2 Turbo include

• Steering Type: Steering rack and pinion
• Power steering: Electric Steering
• Tires size: 175/65 R14
• Fuel tank capacity: 11.62 US gal, 9.68 UK gal
• Fuel System: Multi-point indirect injection
• Engine Aspiration: Turbocharger
• Valvetrain: SOHC
• Fuel type: Petrol (Gasoline)
• Maximum speed 154 km/h: 95.69 mph
• Power: 90 hp @ 5000 rpm.

9. Suzuki Dzire1.2 GA

• Price: R168,400
• Brand: Suzuki 
• Fuel Economy: 4.9 liters per 100km

If you desire a classic and stylish car, Suzuki Dzire 1.2 GA won’t be a bad choice. Suzuki automakers generally use the best materials in manufacturing their products, so this alone assures you a smooth and beautiful adventure while on the ride alongside a premium fuel efficiency.

Emulating the Japanese kind, Dzire 1.2 GA has a 1.2Litre, four-cylinder petrol engine powered at 61 KW and a 113N.m torque to a front axle and a five-speed manual gearbox. Introduced in the South African market in 2018, this car’s speed rate is 175km/ hr. Dzire has 5 years warranty and a 2000000 km warranty distance, which are absolutely great.

Other features/specs of Suzuki Dzire1.2 GA

• Engine Size: 1.2 l
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Body shape: Sedan
• Seat quantity: 5
• Gearshift: Manual
• Fuel range: 755 Km
• Fuel tank capacity: 37 l
• Electric windows (Front + Rear
• Power steering

10. Isuzu D- Max

• Price: R79,038
• Brand: Isuzu 
• Fuel Economy – 8.1 Litres per 100km

The Isuzu D-Max car is also one of the cheapest cars in South Africa. This model of Isuzu can act as both light and commercial pick up or a load carrier acting as towing van. It’s known specifically for its four-wheel drive, which gives it a place over every terrain.

It also has six airbags for both you and your occupant’s safety. Other accessories are; an appealing interior, electric seat adjustment, brighter Bi-LED headlights. A hill-start assist and a hill descent control aid the controlling of the car when ascending and descending from a hill. With all its features, this vehicle is sold for R79, 038, luxury, serving all necessities yet, economical.

Other features/specs of Isuzu D-Max

• City Mileage: 10.0 kmpl
• Fuel Type: Diesel
• Engine Displacement (cc): 1898
• No. of cylinder: 4
• Max Power (bhp@rpm): 160.92bhp@3600rpm
• Max Torque (nm@rpm): 360nm@2000-2500rpm
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Transmission Type: Automatic
• Body Type: SUV
• Steering Column: Tilt & Collapsible

11. Mazda CX3

• Price: R131, 920
• Brand: Mazda
• Fuel Economy: 3.2 gals per 100 km

Mazda is like a household name to many South Africans. This automobile can be seen in almost all garages of each countryman because it’s one of the cheapest cars in South Africa, and it’s been in the country for decades now.

And at every stance, Mazda pushes to improve her innovation hence wowing her users in all aspects such as aesthetics, interior, and mechanical know-how. And its features are 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lamps. It has premium interior decor that gives it superior quality.

Other features/ specs of Mazda CX3

• Fuel System: Gasoline Direct Injection
• Maximum Horsepower @ RPM: 148 @ 6000
• Maximum Torque @ RPM: 146 @ 2800
• Number of Transmission Speeds: 6
• Fuel Capacity / Gas Tank Size: 12.7
• Passenger / Seating Capacity: 5
• Steering Type: Rack-Pinion
• Engine Type and Required Fuel: Regular Unleaded I-4
• Brake Type: 4-Wheel Disc
• Anti-Lock-Braking System: 4-Wheel

12. Suzuki swift 1.2 GA 

• Price: R184,900
• Brand: Suzuki
• Fuel Economy: 4.9 liters per 100km

Suzuki Swift has won the admiration and patronage of numerous people since it entered South Africa over 10 years ago. It leaves users with an amazing driving experience – thanks to its agility and stability on the road.

Front-seat occupants will find no cause for complaint because it has a massive leg-and-headroom in front as well as large door apertures. One of Suzuki Swift’s selling points is its low fuel consumption. Some of the car’s standard equipment includes a high-resolution color touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone mirroring, electric windows all-around, central locking, and air conditioning.

The 3840 mm long car has two years plan years, 5 years warranty, and a 2000000 km warranty distance.

Other features/specs of Suzuki Swift 1.2 GA

• Body shape: Hatch
• Seat quantity: 5
• Fuel range: 755 Km
• Fuel tank capacity: 37 liters
• Top speed: 170 Km/h
• Cylinders: 4
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Transmission type: Manual
• Gear ratios quantity: 5
• Gear shift: Manual

13. Honda Brio

• Price: R103, 755
• Brand: Honda
• Fuel Economy: 19.4 kmpl

Produced in 2015, Honda Brio is one of the versions of the Honda Brio 1.2 model. Other versions, which are also affordable, include Honda Brio 2019, Honda Brio 2018, Honda Brio 2017, and Honda Brio 2016.

Many people, especially low-income earners and those who love simple and classy cars, make use of this car. Apart from the fact that it is generally affordable, other factors such as fuel economy, safety measures, standard equipment, and body type are some of the reasons it is highly sought-after by people.

Honda Brio’s top speed stands at 185 kmph while its maximum power and maximum torque are pegged at 88 Bhp @ 6000 rpm and 109 Nm @ 4500 rpm, respectively.
It has 165 mm ground Clearance, a kerb weight of 920 kg, and 35 liters fuel tank capacity.

Other features of Honda Brio include 

• Number of Cylinders: 4
• Drivetrain: Front – Wheel Drive (FWD)
• Engine Immobilizer
• Central Locking
• Spare Wheel
• Air-conditioner with heater
• Collapsible Steering Column
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Power Windows
• Instantaneous Fuel Consumption

14. Nissan Micra Active 

• Price: R159, 000
• Brand: Nissan
• Fuel Economy: 19.49 kmpl

Nissan Micra Active is a good-looking hatchback-type car for low-income-earners and middle-class families. It has good features but low comfort. Micra’s handling is easy and smooth; it has a nice built quality and sufficient space while its maintenance is relatively low.

Nissan Micra Active, no doubt, is a great and stylish car; however, it has some shortcomings. If you are going for this car, just know you will be missing out on some standard entertainment and communication gadgets such as Cd Player, CD Changer, DVD Player, Radio Audio System Remote Control, Speakers, Front Speakers Rear, Integrated 2DIN Audio, USB & Auxiliary input, and Bluetooth Connectivity.

Other features and specs of Nissan Micra Active

• Engine Type: In-Line Petrol
• Engine Displacement: (cc)1198
• Max Power: 67.06bhp@5000rpm
• Max Torque: 104Nm@4000rpm
• No. of cylinder: 3
• Gear Box: 5 Speed
• Power Steering
• Child Safety Locks
• Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 41.0
• Follow Me Home Headlamps

15. VW Up 

• Price: R171, 994
• Brand: Volkswagen
• Fuel Economy: 55 miles per gallon (mpg)

The Volkswagen Up! has been going strong since it was produced over a decade ago. It’s been on top of the list for years and is even more sophisticated than its size and looks. The car is stable on the road, comfortable to drive, and can move smoothly on any terrain.

In addition, the car has quirky good looks, build quality, and a nice three-cylinder engine. You will get a universal smartphone cradle, DAB radio, Bluetooth for calls and music streaming, aircon, front electric windows, stability control, and hill start assist as standard equipment if you buy this car.

Other features of VW Up include

• Heated rear window
• Heat insulating tinted glass
• Warning buzzer and light for front and rear seat belts if unfastened
• Anti-lock braking system with EDL, EBD + TCS
• Multifunction computer
• Speed sensitive power steering
• Electronic engine immobiliser
• Locking fuel filler cap
• Black cube 2D upper dash pad
• Tyre pressure loss indicator

16. Hatchback XMS 

• Price: R132, 995
• Brand: Tata Motors
• Fuel Economy: 17.57 kmpl

Hatchback XMS is one of the versions of the Tata Bolt 1.2 Turbo. Other versions include Bolt Hatchback XT, Bolt Sedan XMS, and Bolt Sedan XT. The 5-seater car has four cylinders, a manual transmission type, and a 44.0 fuel tank capacity. Some of the other standard safety measures that the car has are central locking, power door locks, child safety locks, and an anti-lock braking system.

Hatchback XMS other Spec/Features

• Top Speed (Kmph): 154
• Front Suspension: Mcpherson Strut With Coil Spring and Anti-Roll Bar
• Rear Suspension: Twist Beam With Coil Spring and Shock Absorber
• Power Steering
• Power Windows-Front
• Power Windows-Rear
• Air Conditioner
• Heater
• Adjustable Steering
• Seating Capacity: 5

17. Mahindra KUV100 K6+ #DARE

• Price: R195, 999
• Brand: Mahindra
• Fuel Economy: 5.3 liters per 100km

The Mahindra KUV100 range is generally unique owing to its impressive safety features, low fuel consumption, and SUV styling. The Mahindra KUV100 K6+ #DARE, in particular, is modern, safe, and economical to drive and maintain.

The vehicle comes with the automaker’s naturally aspirated 1,2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine pushing 61 kW and 115 Nm of torque to the front wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.

In addition, the car is also fitted with branded carpets and standard equipment such as air-conditioning, electric windows, speed-sensing door locks, 7 inches full-color entertainment system, and Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

Other features of Mahindra KUV100 K6+ #DARE

• Electronic climate control
• Flip key with remote + search function
• Engine stop-start technology for better fuel consumption
• Twin pod cluster with gear shift alerts
• Spare wheel – behind rear seats, inside body and fastened using stud and nut
• Remote keyless entry
• Follow me home headlamps
• Electronic power steering with mounted controls
• Fuel tank capacity: 35 Liters

18. Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GA

• Price: R153, 900
• Brand: Suzuki
• Fuel Economy: 4.7 liters per 100km

Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GA was introduced into the market in the year 2015. The automobile company did a good job getting all the modern-day essentials packed into the Celerio 1.0 GA brand. The car is super comfortable on the road while its steering is made for city driving as turns are abundant due to its super-light wheel, which can be swung with the lightest of touches.

The Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GA offers good value, and it has enough interior space. Also, it is jam-packed with specifications, gadgets, and safety measures such as ABS, EBD, Driver airbag, and passenger airbag. It has 3 cylinders, 35 liters fuel tank capacity, and daytime driving running lights.

Other features/specs of Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GA

• Power Max: 50 KW
• Power Max rpm: 6000 r/min
• Torque Max: 90 Nm
• Torque Max rpm: 3500 r/min
• Engine Size: 1.0 l
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Gearshift: Manual
• Top speed: 155 Km/h
• Fuel range: 745 Km
• Gear ratios quantity: 5

19. Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2L GL 

• Price: R149,900
• Brand: Mitsubishi
• Fuel Economy: 4.9 liters per 100km

The Mitsubishi Mirage has lots of value to offer regardless of being one of the cheapest cars in South Africa. The vehicle is fun to drive, comfortably designed, and fitted with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

The Mitsubishi Mirage generates 57 kW of power and 100 Nm of torque from its 3-cylinder 1.2-liter MIVEC petrol engine. It is generally responsive when driven with vigor and offers sufficient power for the user’s everyday city commute.

Some of the car’s amazing features include but are not limited to a handy multi-information display, passenger airbags, electric windows, a start button, air conditioning, 15-inch alloy wheels, ABS with EBD, driver and climate control, and a USB port.

The car has two years service plan, three years warranty, and a 1000000 warranty distance.

Other features/specs of Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2L GL include 

• Power Max: 57 Kw
• Power Max rpm: 6000 r/min
• Torque Max: 100 Nm
• Torque Max rpm: 4000 r/min
• Engine Size: 1.2 liters
• No of Cylinders: 3
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Fuel range: 714 Km
• Fuel tank capacity: 35 liters
• Top speed: 180 Km/h

20. Chevrolet Spark 1.2L Curve 

• Price: R137,900
• Brand: GM Korea
• Fuel Economy: 5.4 liters per 100km

The Chevrolet Spark 1.2 LS is small and compact and also has an amazing interior that is fitted with features such as front and rear electric windows, cloth seats, USB and auxiliary ports, height-adjustable steering wheel with mounted audio controls, Bluetooth capability, and a 4-speaker CD Radio with MP3 capability.

Though one of the cheapest cars in South Africa, the five-door hatchback city car is decent and has unique exterior styling. Its low fuel consumption is a plus, while the car generally provides hassle-free motoring. Chevrolet Spark has five years warranty and a 120000 Km warranty distance.

Other features/specs of Chevrolet Spark 1.2L Curve

• Engine: 1.2-litre DOHC; 4 cylinder petrol
• Power Max: 60 kW
• Torque Max:108 Nm
• Transmission: 5-speed manual
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 35 Litres
• Top speed: 164 Km/h
• Transmission type: Manual
• Gear ratios quantity: 5
• Gearshift: Manual
• Power steering