The Growing Threat on South African Roads
Vehicle hijackings remain a pressing safety issue for motorists across South Africa. In 2025, fresh data from SAPS and insurance reports shows a clear pattern—certain makes and models are being targeted more often. Knowing which vehicles are at risk, and how criminals operate, can help drivers make informed decisions and stay safe.
This article reveals the top hijacked cars in 2025, the hotspots and peak times for incidents, and effective safety strategies you can implement immediately.
1. South Africa’s Most Hijacked Vehicles in 2025
- Toyota Hilux – Highly sought-after for durability and high resale value.
- Volkswagen Polo Vivo – Mass-market appeal and easy to strip for parts.
- Toyota Fortuner – Valuable in cross-border trade and for off-road capability.
- Ford Ranger – High demand in the black market due to versatility.
- Hyundai H100 – Targeted for resale in the commercial transport sector.
- Nissan NP200 – Popular with small businesses, easy to dismantle.
- Kia Picanto – Favoured for fuel efficiency and affordability.
- Toyota Corolla Quest – Common in taxi and fleet use.
- Isuzu D-Max – Often smuggled and resold across borders.
- BMW 3 Series – Sought after for parts in the luxury segment.
Note: Rankings vary by province; check local crime statistics for your area.
2. Hijacking Hotspots and Peak Times
- High-Risk Areas: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Cape Town.
- Peak Times: Weekday evenings (5–8 PM) and weekends.
- Typical Locations: Driveways, busy intersections, and shopping mall parking areas.
Safety Tip: Stay vigilant when arriving home or stopping at lights.
3. Tactics Criminals Commonly Use
- Following victims home from public spaces.
- Staging minor accidents to lure drivers out of their cars.
- Using a vehicle to block your path.
- Posing as police or traffic officials.
4. How to Reduce Your Risk
- Vary your routes and avoid predictable schedules.
- Keep doors locked and windows up in traffic.
- Reverse into driveways for a quicker escape.
- Avoid stopping in dark or isolated spots.
- Fit your car with a tracking system.
- Install smash-and-grab film on windows.
Remember: Your safety comes before your vehicle.
5. Vehicle Security Technology That Works
- GPS tracking – For fast recovery.
- Immobilisers – Prevent unauthorised engine start.
- Dashcams – Useful deterrent and evidence tool.
- Remote shutdown systems – Stop the car if stolen.
Conclusion: Prevention Starts with Awareness
By staying alert and informed about the latest hijacking trends, you can significantly reduce your risk. Pair this knowledge with practical safety measures and technology to protect yourself and your vehicle.
