In South Africa’s highly competitive car market, Omoda and Jaecoo—two emerging Chinese car brands—are quickly gaining traction. Despite their recent entry, they are already outselling established names like Mazda, Land Rover, and Volvo, solidifying their popularity among South African consumers. According to Naamsa, the Automotive Business Council, Omoda and Jaecoo collectively ranked as the 16th best-selling car group in South Africa as of July 2024.
The Rise of Omoda and Jaecoo
Operating under the Chery automotive group but functioning independently in South Africa, Omoda and Jaecoo (collectively known as “O&J”) offer competitively priced premium crossovers. The Omoda C5 launched in April 2023, followed by the Jaecoo J7 SUV a year later, and both have quickly attracted a strong following for their value and appeal. In July 2024 alone, Omoda sold 224 units of the C5, while Jaecoo sold 198 units of the J7, bringing their combined total to 422 units—securing their spot among the top 20 car brands in the country. These figures are separate from Chery’s own success, with 1,701 units sold that month.
How They Stack Up Against Established Brands
In July 2024, Toyota and VW dominated with 11,131 and 6,178 units sold, respectively. However, Omoda and Jaecoo’s achievements are impressive as they surpassed other notable brands: Mazda, Jaguar Land Rover, and Volvo, which recorded sales of 240, 235, and 159 units, respectively. O&J’s swift rise suggests they’re disrupting the market by offering more accessible options as legacy brands become increasingly costly.
Key Factors Driving Omoda and Jaecoo’s Popularity
The success of Chinese brands in South Africa reveals a shift in consumer preferences toward affordable yet quality vehicles. O&J’s competitive pricing and appeal are resonating with buyers looking for budget-friendly alternatives. As traditional brands become more expensive, models like the Omoda C5 and Jaecoo J7 meet the demand for value without compromising quality. O&J has plans to introduce new models like the Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J6, which should further boost their market presence.
The rising popularity of Chinese brands reflects a changing market dynamic, with cost-effective options now appealing to a broader audience.
