The economy has everyone’s budget stretched tighter than a politician’s button-up shirt. As a result, South Africans are choosing affordable second-hand cars for their vehicle needs.
Whether you’re a student with a limited budget, a buyer with a growing family or a car enthusiast looking for a premium purchase, there’s a pre-loved vehicle tailored to your lifestyle.
Protect Your Investment With Comprehensive Car Insurance From Just R589 P/M*
Here are Pineapple’s top 6 picks for the best used cars in South Africa. These options are based on key selling points such as cost, fuel economy and insurance premiums.
1. Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL/GLX
South Africa’s most beloved entry-level hatchback, the Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL, is known for its fuel efficiency and impressive performance. This budget-friendly vehicle is fun to drive and offers low running costs, making it the perfect choice for city dwellers.
- Best budget hatchback
- Fuel consumption: 4.4 to 5.2 litres per 100 km
- Price range: R177,995 to R196,995
- Monthly insurance premium*: R420.63 to R930.59
2. Volkswagen Polo Vivo 1.4 Trendline
Forever the favourite, the VW Polo Vivo is a staple on South Africa’s roads. The Polo Vivo Trendline guarantees practicality and a comfortable driving experience, making it a great everyday car.
- Best popular hatchback
- Fuel consumption: 4.8 to 6.2 litres per 100 km
- Price range: R159,995 to R269,950
- Monthly insurance premium*: R589.23 to R1088.08
3. Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD-6 Legend
The Toyota Hilux is one of SA’s most iconic bakkies. Its durability makes it perfect for handling tough terrain, transporting heavy materials and family adventures with ease.
- Best double-cab bakkie
- Fuel consumption: 7.6 to 8.0 litres per 100 km
- Price range: R302,995 to R549,995
- Monthly insurance premium*: R685.19 to R1,326.29
4. Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi
When the Toyota Corolla’s reliability meets an SUV’s functionality, you get the ever-impressive Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Xi. This vehicle is known for its advanced safety features, comfort and convenience, making it the perfect family car.
- Best compact SUV
- Fuel consumption: 4.3 to 6.8 litres per 100 km
- Price range: R319,900 to R379,990
- Monthly insurance premium*: R445.94 to R739.08
5. Volkswagen Polo Sedan 1.6 TDI
If you’re looking for more boot space than a hatchback can offer, look no further than the VW Polo Sedan. This car provides a refined ride, a comfortable interior, and economical fuel usage.
- Best mid-size sedan
- Fuel consumption: 6.2 to 6.8 litres per 100 km
- Price range: R250,000 to R350,000
- Monthly insurance premium*: R763.47 to R1,145.28
6. BMW 3 Series (G20/F30) 320d
For those seeking to ball on a budget, the BMW 3 Series is your best bet. Its state-of-the-art infotainment, stylish interior, and BMW’s renowned build give you a taste of premium performance without breaking the bank. They are great modern cars with incredible reliability and performance.
- Best performance/value
- Fuel consumption: 4.9 to 6.3 litres per 100 km
- Price range: R209,000 to R939,900
- Monthly insurance premium*: R770.65 to R1,137.41
*Premiums are risk profile dependent.
Best Car Insurance for Used Vehicles
Car insurance is crucial for protecting your old-but-new investment.
But what kind of car insurance is best for used cars?
Comprehensive car insurance is the most robust form of vehicle protection. While this policy is typically suggested for new vehicles, given their high replacement value, pre-owned vehicles are susceptible to the same perils.
Unforeseen accidents, theft or hijacking, and weather-related damage can all lead to massive financial headaches. Plus, if the vehicle is financed, you’ll still be held financially responsible for paying off the used car’s loan, even if it’s not drivable.
Comprehensive car insurance also ensures you’re covered against damages to your own vehicle and that of a third party, preventing a painful insurance claim.
Comprehensive policies also typically provide credit shortfall cover, which covers the difference between what your insurance provider pays for a claim and the amount you owe on the vehicle’s finance.
Learn About Shortfall Cover With Pineapple’s 90-Second Car Insurance Quote Here
Insurance Considerations for Your Used Car
Most used cars are typically cheaper to insure than new cars, but of course, this will depend on your risk profile. That said, used cars might still have higher insurance premiums than expected if they are high-risk or more expensive to repair.
Understanding your car’s valuation will help you calculate the insurance payout if it is written off. Therefore, clarify if your policy covers your vehicle for the trade, market or retail value, as this will significantly impact the claim settlement.
Lastly, understand the insurance excess, which directly affects your settlement amount.
Even if your car is a total loss, you’ll still need to pay this stipulated first amount out of pocket before your insurer pays the remaining amount. Ensure you’re also aware of additional or hidden excesses that may apply under your policy's specific conditions.
For more information, check out Pineapple’s guide on insurance excess in South Africa.
Protect Your Investment! Get Pineapple’s Car Insurance Quote For Coverage Tailored to Your Budget
Frequently Asked Questions: Buying a Used Car in South Africa
1. What are the best used cars in South Africa for 2025?
In addition to the vehicles mentioned above, based on market reliability, popularity and running costs, the best used cars in South Africa include:
- the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger (best double-cab bakkie),
- the Volkswagen Polo Vivo and Suzuki Swift (best hatchback), and
- the Toyota Fortuner (best mid-size SUV).
Other notable budget-friendly choices include the Hyundai Grand i10 and the Toyota Vitz. These models generally offer good value, fuel efficiency and strong resale value in the used market.
2. What should I consider when buying a used car in South Africa?
- Plan your budget
- Know what type of car matches your lifestyle and budget
- Research a reputable pre-owned car dealership
- Research vehicle running costs in South Africa
- Keep maintenance and other running costs in mind
- Check that the used car isn’t stolen/request a certification
- Test drive the car
3. How much should I budget for insurance on a used car?
Budgeting for insurance for a used car will depend on its make, model, age, and mileage. The driver’s risk profile (the driver’s age, insurance history, and claims history) will also affect insurance premiums. That said, Pineapple’s comprehensive car insurance starts from just R589 p/m*.
4. What is the cheapest car to insure in South Africa?
Generally, entry-level vehicles such as the Renault Kwid, Suzuki S-Presso, and Toyota Agya are the cheapest cars to insure in South Africa. This is due to their inexpensive replacement cost, safety features, and smaller engine sizes.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Buying a used car in 2025 can be a wise choice, offering great value and financial soundness.
By choosing reliable, fuel-efficient models like those listed above and understanding used car insurance costs, you can be sure you’re making the best decision for your wheels and wallet.
A good deal isn’t just about the purchase price; it’s about the total cost of ownership. Don’t forget car maintenance (see Pineapple’s car maintenance tips) and car financing (check out Pineapple’s car financing guide) to confidently make the best vehicle purchase.
Ready to make a confident decision and protect your new ride?
- Protect your investment with smart insurance.
- Learn about saving on car insurance.
- Understand how to choose the right car insurance.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this article has been gathered from various sources, including publicly available data and internal research. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy at the time of publication, but we do not guarantee its completeness or suitability for any specific purpose. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence and consult with relevant professionals before making decisions based on this content.
Pineapple (FSP 48650) is underwritten by Old Mutual Alternative Risk Transfer Insure Limited, a licensed Non-Life Insurer and authorised FSP. T&Cs apply.
