This is now South Africa's most searched used car price bracket
South African used-car shoppers are increasingly looking at vehicles priced between R200,000 and R300,000, although the models attracting the most attention remain largely mainstream favourites.
South African used-car shoppers are increasingly focusing on vehicles priced between R200,000 and R300,000, according to data from AutoTrader. This price bracket saw a significant surge in search interest, with 266.4 million impressions in the first half of 2026, a marked increase from 139.1 million in the same period last year.
The R100,001 to R200,000 bracket, previously the most searched range, has now been overtaken by the higher-priced bracket. While interest in the cheaper bracket has not waned, it has increased by 36.4% compared to the previous year. The models drawing the most attention in the R200,001 to R300,000 range are largely mainstream favorites.
The Volkswagen Polo and its variant, the Polo Vivo, topped the list, with the former generating 21.9 million impressions and the latter 16.7 million. These models have seen a shift in search interest, with buyers opting for newer, lower-mileage versions of familiar vehicles. AutoTrader's Mid-Year Report indicates that the average selling price for used cars remained at R421,499 in H1 2026, a 1% increase year on year.
However, average listing prices rose by 3.4%, from R425,590 to R440,103. AutoTrader's CEO, George Mienie, noted that consumers are seeking better value for their money, rather than simply moving towards more expensive vehicle types.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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