Johannesburg, South Africa – Crossovers and hatchbacks may be the top sellers in South Africa these days, but the humble sedan still has a strong role to play, especially for ride-hailing services, fleet operators, and families looking to stretch their budgets. Recent pricing updates show five new sedans on sale for under R300 000, with the Suzuki Dzire leading at R232 900.
It’s worth noting that the Proton Saga, which used to be the most affordable option at R209 900, is not included here because the brand’s future in South Africa is still up in the air.
The five most affordable sedans
| Rank | Model | Entry price | Engine | Claimed fuel economy | Warranty |
| 1 | Suzuki Dzire 1.2 GA 5MT | R232 900 | 1.2-litre, 60 kW/112 Nm | 4.4 L/100 km | 5-year/200 000 km |
| 2 | Changan Alsvin 1.4 CS 5MT | R249 900 | 1.4-litre, 74 kW/135 Nm | 5.8 L/100 km | 5-year/150 000 km |
| 3 | Honda Amaze 1.2 Trend 5MT | R256 800 | 1.2-litre, 66 kW/110 Nm | 5.5 L/100 km | 5-year/200 000 km |
| 4 | Hyundai Grand i10 1.2 Executive Sedan 5MT | R282 400 | 1.2-litre, 61 kW/114 Nm | 5.5 L/100 km | 7-year/200 000 km |
| 5 | Kia Pegas 1.4 LX 5MT | R292 995 | 1.4-litre, 69 kW/132 Nm | 5.7 L/100 km | 5-year/unlimited km |
Value and practicality
The Dzire currently holds the title of South Africa’s most affordable new sedan. Despite its compact size, it offers a 378-litre boot, six airbags, and a claimed fuel consumption of just 4.4 L/100 km. The entry-level GA model comes with a five-speed manual gearbox, while buyers who want more features can opt for the GL+ with a CVT.
If you’re after more power, the Changan Alsvin leads this group with 74 kW, and it’s also the longest sedan here at 4 390 mm, with a 390-litre boot. For those who prioritise luggage space, the Kia Pegas stands out with the largest boot in the segment at 475 litres.
Honda’s Amaze offers a 416-litre boot and backs it up with a five-year or 200 000 km warranty. The Hyundai Grand i10 Sedan, meanwhile, is notable for its seven-year or 200 000 km warranty, though the entry-level version only comes with a one-year or 15 000 km service plan.
Fleet and first-car appeal
For fleet managers and ride-hailing drivers, these entry-level manual models promise low running costs, easy manoeuvrability in city traffic, and enough boot space for passengers’ luggage. Private buyers will find that this segment offers an affordable way into a new car, complete with warranty support and up-to-date safety features, although the number of airbags ranges from two to six depending on the model.
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