South Africa’s total vehicle sales growth eased in April 2026, with a year-on-year increase of 13.00%, down from 17.30% in March 2026. The figures, updated on 4 May 2026, show that while the market continues to expand compared with a year earlier, the pace of growth has moderated.
The data are based on a year-over-year comparison, meaning April’s 13.00% figure reflects the change relative to April 2025, while March’s 17.30% reading was measured against March 2025. The slowdown suggests that although underlying demand remains positive, the strong rebound seen earlier in the year is beginning to lose some momentum.
For market participants, the April reading may signal a more measured phase of recovery in South Africa’s auto sector, with potential implications for manufacturers, dealers, and lenders who had benefited from the sharper growth seen in March.
