In the last few years, Chinese car brands have exploded onto the South African market. What began as a cautious entry by a handful of manufacturers is now a full-scale automotive battle — with brands like GWM, Chery, and BAIC competing head-to-head in showrooms across the country.
In 2025, the “Chinese Car War” in South Africa is one of the most exciting industry stories. The big question: Which brand is winning — and why?
Let’s explore the latest numbers, market trends, and strategies behind this growing phenomenon.
1. Chinese Car Sales in South Africa: 2025 Snapshot
Latest Sales Data (Q1 2025):
| Brand | Units Sold (Q1 2025) |
|---|---|
| Chery | 5,739 |
| GWM (incl. Haval) | 5,535 |
| BAIC | 666 |
Chery has overtaken GWM as the leading Chinese brand in SA — thanks in large part to its diverse product portfolio and aggressive dealership expansion.
GWM remains a strong second, while BAIC lags — but with major growth potential if it can overcome local production challenges.
2. Top-Selling Chinese Models in 2025
| Model | Units Sold (Q1 2025) |
|---|---|
| Chery Tiggo 4 Pro | 3,371 |
| Haval Jolion (GWM) | 3,183 |
| Omoda C5 (Chery) | 1,628 |
| Chery Tiggo 7 Pro | 1,217 |
| Haval H6 (GWM) | 898 |
| Jetour Dashing (Chery sub-brand) | 817 |
| Jetour X70 Plus (Chery sub-brand) | 613 |
| Chery Tiggo Cross | 579 |
| Chery Tiggo 8 Pro | 572 |
| Jaecoo J7 (Chery sub-brand) | 510 |
What’s Driving Success:
- Chery dominates value-packed SUVs.
- GWM/Haval remains strong with popular SUVs like Jolion and H6.
- Chery sub-brands (Omoda, Jaecoo, Jetour) are rapidly building new segments.
3. Brand Strategies & Strengths
Chery:
- Fastest-growing Chinese brand in SA.
- Innovative sub-brands — Omoda, Jaecoo, Jetour — targeting tech-savvy buyers.
- Aggressive dealer network expansion.
- Leading in SUV and crossover segments.
GWM (Great Wall Motors):
- Established presence via Haval brand.
- Strong mid-size SUV offering (Jolion, H6).
- Building hybrid and EV capability.
- Well-known brand trust built over past decade.
BAIC:
- Local production potential at Gqeberha plant.
- Struggles with volume production — only 666 units sold in Q1 2025.
- Plans to localise models like Beijing X55 could improve market share.
- Price-driven offering appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
4. Consumer Perception & Brand Image
Chery:
- Seen as modern, premium-looking, and value-rich.
- Strong warranty offers boosting trust.
- Popular among young professionals and family SUV buyers.
GWM:
- Recognised for solid build quality and affordable running costs.
- Haval Jolion is a household name in SA SUV space.
- Trusted by value-seeking buyers who want European-style looks for less.
BAIC:
- Still building recognition.
- Low awareness compared to Chery and GWM.
- Seen more as a budget option — needs stronger product positioning.
5. Financing Trends & Buyer Demographics
Bank data (Standard Bank) shows:
- Financing for Chinese brands has surged since 2021.
- Many buyers are first-time SUV owners switching from older sedans/hatchbacks.
- High demand for well-specced crossovers under R500k.
- Chinese cars often outperform Korean/Japanese rivals on value for money.
6. Electrification: Who’s Leading the EV Race?
Chery:
- Rapid development of hybrid and EV platforms.
- Sub-brands like Omoda offer EV-ready models.
- Actively preparing for SA’s future EV shift.
GWM:
- Already offers Haval Jolion HEV (hybrid).
- Developing full EV line-up under Ora brand.
- Strong focus on affordable EVs.
BAIC:
- Plans for EVs exist but are behind competitors.
- Production focus is still petrol-based for now.
Market Challenge:
- SA’s charging infrastructure still developing.
- Import duties on EVs remain high.
- But Chinese brands are well-positioned for growth once the market tips.
7. Dealer Network & After-Sales Support
Chery:
- Rapidly building a nationwide dealer network.
- Strong focus on after-sales service.
- Well-supported parts availability.
GWM:
- One of the most established Chinese networks in SA.
- Solid track record of good service and parts support.
- Dealer loyalty from customers.
BAIC:
- Fewer dealers.
- After-sales perception still developing.
- Needs to improve network depth and reliability.
8. Challenges for All Chinese Brands
- Perception bias — some SA buyers still wary of Chinese quality (although improving fast).
- Resale values — historically lagged behind Japanese/Korean rivals (but gaining ground).
- Limited local EV incentives — makes importing EVs less price competitive (for now).
- Competing with fierce rivals — Kia, Hyundai, Toyota, Renault.
9. Who’s Winning Right Now — and What’s Next?
Current Leader:
Chery — leading in total sales and brand momentum.
Strong Contender:
GWM/Haval — still a formidable force with strong brand loyalty.
Challenger:
BAIC — potential is there, but needs better execution.
10. The AUTO24 Advantage: Helping Buyers Navigate the Chinese Car Boom
As buyers explore Chinese cars in 2025, platforms like AUTO24 play a key role:
- Compare multiple Chinese brands/models side-by-side.
- Access certified used Chery, GWM, BAIC stock.
- Get battery health reports on EVs/hybrids.
- Partnered finance options tailored for Chinese brands.
- Expert support for first-time buyers navigating new brand options.
Conclusion
The Chinese Car War in South Africa is far from over — but in 2025, Chery currently leads the pack, with GWM/Haval right behind.
BAIC still trails — but could surprise if local production kicks into gear.
For buyers, this competition is great news:
- Better choice.
- More features for less.
- Rapid innovation across all segments.
And with AUTO24 helping to compare and buy smarter, South African drivers are perfectly placed to take advantage of this new wave of high-value vehicles.
