Motor trade sales in South Africa, measured at constant 2019 prices, rose sharply by 14,7% year-on-year in March 2026, underscoring a strong rebound in consumer demand across the automotive sector. New vehicle sales surged 23,4%, contributing 6,3 percentage points to the overall increase, while used vehicle sales climbed 19,1%, adding 3,7 percentage points.
Fuel sales rose 9,5% and contributed 2,4 percentage points, while accessory sales advanced 9,3%, adding 1,9 percentage points.
Seasonally adjusted data showed a 3,9% month-on-month rise in March, following gains of 1,5% in February and a slight contraction of -0,7% in January, highlighting a consistent upward trajectory.
The quarterly picture reinforced this momentum. Motor trade sales increased by 7,6% in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025. New vehicle sales were the standout contributor, rising 18,7% and adding 5,0 percentage points, while used vehicle sales grew 9,4%, contributing 1,9 percentage points.
On a seasonally adjusted basis, motor trade sales rose 2,2% in the first quarter compared with the fourth quarter of 2025, driven by used vehicle sales (4,8% and contributing 1,0 percentage point), fuel sales (2,8% and contributing 0,7 percentage point), and new vehicle sales (1,2% and contributing 0,4 percentage point).
Analysts note that the surge in both new and used vehicle sales reflects pent-up demand and financing conditions that remain supportive, while fuel and accessory sales point to broader consumer confidence.
“The strength in vehicle sales signals renewed household and business investment in durable assets. However, the reliance on fuel-linked revenues suggests vulnerability to global oil price volatility.”said Johannesburg-based economist Nandi Mokoena
From a global perspective, the rebound in South Africa’s motor trade sector carries implications for automotive supply chains and investment flows.
Rising demand for vehicles may bolster imports and assembly operations, while stronger fuel sales align with broader consumption trends in emerging markets.
Yet, the balance between new asset acquisition and ongoing service demand highlights structural shifts in consumer behavior, with downstream service providers facing uneven growth.
Looking ahead, analysts expect continued volatility shaped by interest rate dynamics, commodity price shifts, and consumer confidence.
While the March Statistic South Africa data points to resilience, the outlook hinges on whether sustained demand for vehicles can offset structural risks in fuel and accessory-linked revenues.
The sector’s trajectory will remain a bellwether for broader economic momentum in South Africa and its integration into global trade patterns.
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