All the cars you can buy in South Africa for under R250,000 in 2025

 ·1 Feb 2025

In 2025, there will be 12 cars priced under R250,000 in South Africa, which will cost you up to R4,690 per month to finance.

Buying a new car in South Africa has become increasingly challenging as vehicle prices continue to rise.

According to TransUnion’s latest reports, the cost of hatchbacks, often the most affordable option from luxury brands, has surged by 7.6%.

Despite these price hikes, there are still a dozen new cars available for under R250,000 in 2025, making them accessible to many South Africans.

A combination of economic pressures, inflation, and rising production costs has contributed to the overall increase in vehicle prices.

Global supply chain disruptions, currency fluctuations, and higher interest rates have all played a role in making new cars more expensive.

However, for budget-conscious buyers, some options are still available that provide reliable and economical transportation.

The list of new cars available for under R250,000 includes five Suzuki models, two Renault models, and one model each from Toyota, Proton, Hyundai, Citroën, and Nissan.

Suzuki, known for its affordability and fuel efficiency, dominates the budget-friendly segment, while other manufacturers continue to offer competitive options within this price range.

When considering a car purchase, financial experts advise that vehicle-related expenses should not exceed 25% of one’s monthly net income.

With Stats SA reporting the average salary in South Africa at R28,220 per month, this means that many individuals can allocate up to R7,055 for car payments and related costs.

This budget places these 12 affordable cars within reach for a significant portion of the population.

Financing is a popular option for buyers who cannot afford to pay the full purchase price upfront.

WesBank’s vehicle finance calculator gives an idea of what buyers can expect to pay each month.

Based on a five-year financing term with no deposit and a 0% balloon payment at an interest rate of 11%, monthly repayments for the automatic models in this price range range from R3,383 to R4,689.

These figures make these vehicles not only practical but also financially feasible for many South Africans.

While affordability remains a key concern, buyers should also consider factors such as fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and insurance premiums when selecting a vehicle.

With rising living expenses, choosing a car that offers good fuel economy and low running costs is crucial for long-term financial sustainability.

Despite economic challenges and rising costs, South Africans still have options when it comes to buying a new car on a budget.

The availability of these 12 models under R250,000 ensures that reliable and affordable vehicles remain accessible, allowing buyers to navigate the financial landscape without overstretching their budgets.

These cars are listed below.


Suzuki S-Presso

  • Starting price: R178,900

Suzuki Celerio

  • Starting price: R188,900

Toyota Vitz

  • Starting price: R189,900

Renault Kwid

  • Starting price: R196,999

Proton Saga

  • Starting price: R209,900

Suzuki DZire 

  • Starting price: R217,900

Suzuki Swift 

  • Starting price: R219,900

Hyundai Grand i10

  • Starting price: R224,900

Nissan Magnite

  • Starting price: R224,900

Renault Triber

  • Starting price: R228,999

Suzuki Ignis

  • Starting price: R237,900

Citroen C3 

  • Starting price: R249,900

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