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As we enter the final stretch of 2025, with the first rains signalling the change of season in Gauteng, we reflect on a year that has again illustrated the adaptability of South Africa’s motor dealers. Your contribution continues to power the industry and the economy, and for this, I extend my sincere thanks.
The latest insights shared at DealerCon by TransUnion point to encouraging momentum in our sector. Lower borrowing costs, record-low new-vehicle inflation and temporary liquidity from the two-pot pension reform have provided welcome relief, pushing passenger car sales above 35,000 units in July and August, the strongest volumes since 2014. New value-driven brands are reshaping competition, while stalwarts remain steady leaders.
At the same time, challenges remain. Affordability pressures, sharp declines in exports due to weaker global demand and tariffs, and an uncertain local government election in 2026. With over 1,700 dealerships across 50 passenger and 29 commercial brands and more than 2 500 model derivatives, you, our valued members, retail roughly 84% of the 45,000 – 50,000 new vehicles sold each month. This is a remarkable achievement, especially when balancing high financing levels, shifting consumer expectations and an ever-growing compliance burden
Looking ahead, our focus as NADA is to support you in navigating these headwinds while maximising the opportunities. Affordability, flexible financing solutions and data-driven insights will be critical levers. Most importantly, it is your resilience and professionalism that continue to define this industry. Let’s carry this momentum into the final quarter with the same determination that has brought us this far.
On behalf of the NADA membership, I am also delighted to welcome our newly elected office bearers. Your appointment is a clear reflection of the confidence your peers have in your leadership and commitment. As you take up this important role, we look forward to the fresh ideas, collaboration and dedication you will bring to strengthening our collective efforts. Congratulations once again. We wish you every success in your new role.
Yours in partnership,
Brandon Cohen
Chairperson
NADA
DEALERCON 2025 RECAP: BRANDON COHEN ON POSITIONING DEALERSHIPS FOR CHANGE
Brandon opened with a candid look at the South African dealer landscape, noting that with around 1,700 new car dealerships, over 50 brands, and 2,500+ derivatives, the market remains competitive and complex.
Dealers currently retail 84% of roughly 45,000–50,000 vehicles sold each month, with 80% of sales financed over an average of 72+ months. While economic growth remains sluggish (under 1% per annum) and unemployment continues to challenge households, Brandon highlighted some positive indicators.
CROSSOVER/SUV DOMINANCE KEEPS GROWING
The Crossover/SUV has cemented its place as South Africa’s favourite body shape, dominating both new and used markets. While new car sales have led the charge for over five years, used SUVs have only recently overtaken Hatches, whose sales continue to soften.
Interestingly, body shape trends in the used market typically follow the new market with a delay, except for the Double-cab bakkie, where used sales are outpacing new demand.
GROWING FROM THE GROUND UP: HOW TATA INTERNATIONAL AFRICA IS POWERING LOCAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT THROUGH ITS DEALER NETWORK
In South Africa and across the continent, small and medium enterprises are more than just businesses—they are the backbone of local economies.
The stories shared at the 2025 Tata Dealer Conference in South Africa, weren’t just tales of sales success – they were case studies in how local business development happens when a network is built on mentorship, innovation, and long-term commitment and partnership.
NADA LEGAL & COMPLIANCE WORKING GROUP WELCOMES NEW JOINT CONVENOR: SUZETTE NEUHOFF
At its recent NEC meeting, NADA confirmed the appointment of Suzette Neuhoff as Joint Convenor of the Legal & Compliance Working Group, alongside Bernita Azzie.
This follows the decision by Pieter Smit to step down as convenor after years of dedicated service. Pieter’s guidance and deep understanding of regulatory issues have been instrumental in strengthening NADA’s legal and compliance efforts.
STANDING UP FOR A MORE ETHICAL AND TRUSTED AUTOMOTIVE ENVIRONMENT
As members of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), we have the opportunity – and responsibility – to uphold the highest technical and ethical standards every day. The way we conduct our businesses builds consumer confidence, strengthens trust, and reinforces the value of the RMI brand.
The RMI, together with its associations, is well recognised by key industry stakeholders. We have invested significant effort in educating consumers about the importance of using only accredited members.
NADA IN THE MEDIA: CHAMPIONING CONSUMER RIGHTS
On Tuesday, 23 September 2025, NADA participated in a studio discussion focused on dealership accountability and consumer recourse in the motor industry.
The discussion centred on the real-life case of Mr. Mzwakhe Mthethwa, whose brand-new Hyundai Venue experienced an engine failure while still under warranty. The case raised key questions about service responsibility, warranty coverage, and how dealerships communicate with consumers.
Representing NADA, Vice Chairperson, Thembinkosi Pantsi joined the conversation to share valuable insights. Mr. Pantsi highlighted the responsibilities of dealerships toward consumers, explained how warranties and service agreements should apply in disputes, and outlined the proper channels available for consumers to escalate unresolved issues.
NADA remains committed to empowering both dealers and consumers with accurate information that drives accountability and builds trust across the motor industry.
