9 cars hijackers are targeting in South Africa in 2025 – with 4 new additions

Security groups noted several vehicle models in the crosshairs of hijackers across South Africa, which now include Chinese cars that have gained massive popularity.
According to the Fidelity Services Group, there was a notable decrease in hijackings by 27.3% between November and December 2024.
Wahl Bartmann, CEO of Fidelity Group, told BusinessTech that this decline is due to a seasonal dip in organised crime activity as syndicate members often take holidays during the festive season.
Despite this reprieve, hijackings are expected to rise again from late January, with a big jump in February and March 2025.
The number of incidents should level off by mid-year but could spike again in August and November.
Regarding the most popular cars among hijackers, security experts, including Bartmann, note that vehicle hijackings are largely a business driven by demand and supply in South Africa.
Popular models are targeted due to the high demand for their parts or resale value, often through illicit markets.
For years, cars from Toyota, Volkswagen, and Ford have been the most targeted vehicles, and this still holds true.
However, the rise of Chinese automakers in the South African market has introduced new targets. This was first flagged by Fidelity ADT in the middle of last year.
Brands like Chery and GWM, whose sales have skyrocketed by 1,749% over the last decade, are now being flagged by security groups as increasingly vulnerable.
This means more of these cars are on the road, creating a bigger market for their parts.
While Fidelity did not specify particular models, industry trends and sales data from Naamsa provide insights.
The Haval Jolion and Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, which ranked among the top-selling cars at the end of 2024, are likely targets.
Larger SUVs like the Haval H6 and Chery Tiggo 7 Pro also remain popular among the brands and are thus at risk.
These vehicles join perennial favourites on hijackers’ lists, which are:
- VW Polo
- Toyota Hilux
- Ford Ranger
- Toyota Corolla Cross
- Toyota Fortuner
- Haval Jolion
- Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
- Haval H6
- Chery Tiggo 7 Pro
One recent incident underscores the vulnerability of these vehicles, including the new entries.
Less than 10 days ago, a hijacked Toyota Corolla Cross was recovered in KwaMashu. The suspects tried to escape when they saw security officers but lost control of the car.
One suspect was arrested, but two others got away. This shows that even newer car models can quickly become targets for criminals.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilance, even for owners of vehicles that are relatively new to hijackers’ radar.
Bartmann said popular models are often targeted because they blend in easily on South African roads, especially in colours like white and silver.
Hijackers typically strip these cars for parts or re-register them through corrupt channels for resale.
The Toyota Corolla Cross, for instance, became the fourth most popular new car sold in 2024 despite only being launched in 2021, which coincides with its emergence as a hijacking target.
As the popularity of Chinese cars like Chery and GWM grows, so does their appeal to criminals.
While the listed vehicles are expected to dominate the hijacking landscape in 2025, it is crucial to remember that no car is entirely immune.
Bartmann emphasises that hijackings can occur at any time and in any location. “Staying alert is probably the most important tip,” he advises. “Too often, we are distracted, which makes us vulnerable to criminal activity.
“The best response is to be alert and aware of any suspicious activity near you.”
Owners of high-target vehicles should take extra precautions, such as installing advanced tracking devices or avoiding high-risk areas during certain times.
Ultimately, the high popularity of certain vehicles translates to their increased likelihood of being hijacked.
Comparing the number of vehicles on the road with the corresponding hijacking incidents could offer a clearer picture of criminal preferences.
However, as Bartmann underscores, vigilance is essential for everyone, regardless of the make or model of their car.