Looking for a car that holds its value? Here’s the scoop: resale value is a big deal in South Africa, where cars lose 15–25% of their value in the first year and up to 50–60% after three years. Yet, some models buck the trend. The Toyota Hilux and Corolla Cross retain up to 90% of their value after three years, while others like the Ford Ranger depreciate just 3.2% in the first year. Even budget-friendly options like the Suzuki Swift and Toyota Etios hold strong resale percentages.
Key factors include:
- Brand reputation: Toyota and Volkswagen dominate.
- Reliability: Low maintenance cars depreciate slower.
- Market demand: Popular models fetch better prices.
Quick Overview:
- Toyota Etios: Retains 74% after 3 years.
- Ford Ranger: Loses just 3.2% in the first year.
- GWM P-Series: Gaining traction with solid resale rates.
- Haval H6: Keeps up to 93.8% of its value after 2 years.
- Chery Tiggo 7 Pro: Retains 95–96.5% in the first year.
Choosing wisely and maintaining your car can save you money when it’s time to sell.
Top 5 Cars with Best Resale Value in South Africa – Depreciation Comparison
These 2025 Cars Are RESALE CHAMPIONS – Buy These Before They’re Gone!
1. Toyota Etios
Though production ceased in 2020 to make way for the Toyota Starlet, the Toyota Etios remains a favorite in South Africa’s used car market. Its enduring popularity stems from Toyota’s reputation for reliability and durability, making it a strong contender in the resale market.
Resale Percentage
The Etios holds an impressive 74% of its original value after three years. This puts it on par with other top performers in its class, such as the Volkswagen Polo, which retains 75%.
"The Etios, a compact car known for its reliability and practicality, remarkably maintains its value by holding onto 74% of its original worth after a three-year ownership period." – Joe Brand, Author
Reliability
One of the Etios’s key strengths is its low maintenance cost, supported by Toyota’s extensive service network and the availability of spare parts. This makes it a dependable choice for urban commuters and first-time car buyers looking for functionality over flair.
Market Demand
Toyota’s strong brand presence plays a significant role in the Etios’s demand. As the third most searched-for automotive brand in South Africa, Toyota inspires confidence among buyers. The Etios stands out with its straightforward appeal: dependable transportation at a reasonable price. Well-maintained models with a documented service history often fetch premium prices in the used car market.
The Etios’s performance in the resale market sets the stage for exploring other models with similarly strong value retention.
2. Ford Ranger
In South Africa’s bustling used car market, the Ford Ranger stands out as a model with impressive resale value. From July 2019 to June 2020, it earned the title of top-selling used vehicle model overall, contributing to 4.7% of all used car sales during that period. It also generated an incredible 8.3 million searches on AutoTrader in just one year, ranking as the third most searched-for model derivative in the country. These figures highlight the Ranger’s strong position in retaining value and its popularity among buyers.
Resale Percentage
The Ford Ranger’s resale performance is a standout feature. A one-year-old Ranger 2.2TDCi Hi-Rider XL Sport retains 96.8% of its original value, reflecting a depreciation of just 3.2%. This performance surpasses competitors like the Isuzu D-Max (92.8%) and the Toyota Hilux (89.8%) over the same period. However, for vehicles with over 124,274 miles (200,000 km), the Ranger retains 53% of its value, which falls short of the Hilux’s 68%.
Reliability
The Ranger’s reliability adds to its appeal, complementing its strong resale value. Locally produced at the Silverton plant, it benefits from high build quality and easy access to spare parts. Programs like "Ford Approved" and the Vehicle Loaner Programme further enhance its attractiveness in the pre-owned market. Ford also ranks as the #8 most reliable brand in South Africa for 2025, reinforcing consumer trust.
"Seeing it come out at the top in the AutoTrader report shows the confidence that consumers have in our product."
- Eben Swart, Ford Approved Manager at Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa
Market Demand
The Ford Ranger’s versatility and performance make it a favorite among buyers. With a payload capacity of 2,502 lbs (1,135 kg) and a towing capacity of 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg), it caters to both business needs and lifestyle demands. Double cab models dominate sales, accounting for 68.86% of all Ranger purchases, with Gauteng province leading the way with 55.02% of total sales. The 2.0-liter Single Turbo engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers excellent fuel efficiency at 6.81 liters per 62 miles (100 km). Adding to its accolades, the Ranger secured the 2023 South African Car of the Year award, cementing its position as a market leader.
3. GWM P-Series
The GWM P-Series has made a name for itself in South Africa’s competitive bakkie market, proving that Chinese-built vehicles can hold their own when it comes to value retention. As of May 2025, GWM is ranked as the 6th most reliable used car brand in the country. It sits just behind Hyundai and ahead of Kia, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW – marking a notable shift in how consumers view the brand’s reliability and quality.
Reliability
The P-Series has earned a reputation for dependability. Lawrence Minnie, a motoring journalist at AutoTrader, sums it up well:
"The Haval and GWM workhorses have proven that Chinese-built vehicles have staying power."
He goes on to say:
"One can rest assured that any Haval SUV or GWM bakkie will serve well and be considered reliable."
This level of reliability has helped the brand gain trust among buyers, further solidifying its standing in the market.
Market Demand
Reliability is just one piece of the puzzle – strong market demand also plays a big role in the P-Series’ appeal. GWM’s growing footprint in South Africa has boosted its presence in the used car market. The company’s extensive sub-brands, including Haval, Tank, and Ora, add to its overall reputation and make vehicles like the P-Series more attractive to second-hand buyers.
While the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger continue to dominate bakkie searches, the P-Series has carved out its own space by offering a mix of modern features, practicality, and competitive pricing. These elements not only appeal to new buyers but also enhance the vehicle’s resale value and long-term appeal in the South African market.
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4. Haval H6
Since its third-generation debut in June 2021, the Haval H6 has quickly established itself as a standout SUV option in South Africa. Chad Lückhoff from AutoTrader describes it as offering "a premium feel, modern tech, and elegant styling at an affordable price". This combination of affordability and modern features has played a big role in boosting its resale value.
Average Used Price Retention
As of June 2023, two-year-old 2021 models of the Haval H6 showed impressive resale performance, retaining between 83.1% and 93.8% of their original price. For example, the 4WD Luxury model held onto 93.8% of its value, dropping from R479,900 to about R450,000. Meanwhile, the entry-level 2WD Premium retained 83.1%, going from R419,900 to approximately R349,000.
Reliability
GWM and Haval have earned the title of the 6th most reliable brand in South Africa, ranking ahead of well-known names like Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW. This growing confidence in Chinese-manufactured vehicles adds to the H6’s appeal and strengthens its resale value.
Market Demand
The Haval H6’s popularity ensures steady demand, which helps to maintain its resale value. Chad Lückhoff highlights this by stating:
"The Haval H6 remains a popular offering and as such there is still a demand for them. This demand means that the models on the used market are holding their value well with minimal depreciation".
Keeping up with regular service records and managing mileage carefully can further enhance the vehicle’s value retention.
5. Chery Tiggo 7 Pro
Introduced in May 2022, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro has quickly made waves in the affordable crossover market. It has garnered attention for offering a premium experience at a more accessible price point. With its high-end features and efficient performance, the Tiggo 7 Pro has struck a chord with local drivers. This popularity is evident in its strong price retention during its first year on the road.
Average Used Price Retention
The Tiggo 7 Pro holds its value impressively well in its first year. For the entry-level Distinctive trim, the resale value remains at 95.0% of the original price after one year and less than 12,427 miles (20,000 km) of use. The price drops from R409,900 to roughly R389,400, reflecting a depreciation of about R48,000. The flagship Executive trim performs even better, retaining 96.5% of its value. Its price decreases from R444,900 to approximately R429,400, a loss of only around R50,000. These retention rates highlight the steady demand for the vehicle.
Market Demand
The Tiggo 7 Pro’s high demand in the market helps keep resale prices close to the original retail figures. Sean Nurse, a motoring journalist at AutoTrader, notes:
"Looking at the Tiggo 7 Pro range over the course of a year in the local market, it appears to hold its value well, however, the flagship Executive seems to have the least depreciation".
With its slightly better retention, the Executive trim is often the go-to choice for buyers aiming to minimize depreciation. However, both trims outperform many competitors in their class. The Tiggo 7 Pro’s advanced features and strong market presence ensure it remains a solid option for those seeking a dependable crossover with excellent resale value.
Pros and Cons
When deciding on a vehicle, it’s important to weigh the strengths and drawbacks of each model, especially if your priorities include resale value, brand reputation, or cutting-edge features. Here’s a quick look at what each model brings to the table – and where they might fall short.
The Toyota Etios stands out for its dependability and practicality, retaining about 74% of its original value after three years. Its low maintenance costs and straightforward design make it a favorite among budget-conscious buyers. That said, since production ended in 2020, finding parts and long-term support might become a challenge.
The Ford Ranger enjoys a strong reputation in the market and consistently ranks among the top three most searched models. It combines modern features, upscale interiors, and impressive performance, with minimal depreciation in its first year. However, its higher out-of-plan maintenance costs could chip away at your savings over time.
Chinese brands like the GWM P-Series, Haval H6, and Chery Tiggo 7 Pro offer plenty of value, boasting modern features and extended warranties. However, these brands are still relatively new to the market, so their long-term resale performance isn’t as established as stalwarts like Toyota and Ford.
These factors highlight why each model has carved out its place in South Africa’s competitive used-car market.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a vehicle with strong resale value in South Africa, the Toyota Etios and Ford Ranger are standout options. The Etios retains an impressive 74% of its value after three years, while the Ford Ranger depreciates by just 3.2% in its first year. Both owe their popularity to extensive dealer networks, local production, and consistent demand.
Beyond premium models, other segments also shine. Budget hatchbacks like the VW Polo Vivo hold an astounding 99.1% of their value after a year. Even more surprising, the Toyota Corolla Cross sees its value increase by 4.1% in the same period. Meanwhile, newer contenders like the Haval H6 and GWM P-Series are gaining traction with competitive retention rates, though their long-term performance is still being established.
When selling, timing and preparation matter. A complete service history, selling before costly maintenance is due, and opting for neutral vehicle colors can all contribute to better resale prices.
Expert advice underscores these points. As Chad Lückhoff from AutoTrader explains:
"Ensuring the future value of your vehicle starts when you choose what vehicle to buy. Not all vehicles are created equal and no two models will retain their value in the same way".
In short, choosing wisely and maintaining your car properly can make all the difference when it’s time to sell.
FAQs
How does a car brand’s reputation impact its resale value in South Africa?
A car brand’s reputation plays a major role in determining its resale value in South Africa. Brands recognized for their reliability, durability, and overall quality often see their vehicles retain value more effectively. Take Toyota and Volkswagen, for example – these brands are well-known for producing dependable models, which helps them maintain strong resale values.
When a brand has a solid reputation, it builds trust among buyers. This trust boosts demand, allowing these vehicles to fetch higher prices in the used car market. On the flip side, cars from brands with a history of reliability problems or a weaker reputation tend to lose value more quickly. Opting for a brand with a strong track record can have a big impact on how well your car holds its value over time.
Why do cars like the Toyota Corolla Cross sometimes increase in value after being purchased?
Cars such as the Toyota Corolla Cross can sometimes gain value after purchase, thanks to their competitive price, dependable performance, and strong market demand. These qualities make them especially appealing, helping them retain or even increase their resale value over time.
Brands like Toyota have built a reputation for creating vehicles that excel in resale value. Their cars are known for being durable, fuel-efficient, and inexpensive to maintain. This mix of traits keeps models like the Corolla Cross in high demand, ensuring they remain a sought-after option in the used car market.
What are the best maintenance tips to preserve a car’s resale value?
To keep your car’s resale value intact, regular upkeep is a must. Follow the service schedule recommended by the manufacturer, tackle mechanical problems as soon as they arise, and maintain the car’s cleanliness inside and out. Keeping detailed service records can also go a long way in assuring potential buyers about the car’s reliability.
Steer clear of modifications that could hurt the car’s appeal or dependability. Cars from well-regarded brands like Toyota or Volkswagen, known for their durability, often hold their value better. Plus, keeping the mileage low and preserving the vehicle in its original condition can make a big difference when it’s time to sell.
