It’s no secret that inflation and the current state of the economy is hitting everyone’s wallet. The South African Reserve Bank has increased the prime interest rate yet again, making car payments more expensive than ever before. However, there are a few budget-friendly cars that you can get for a decent monthly payment. We give you a snapshot of the best cars under R200k in the SA second-hand market.

Whether you’re a first-time car owner or want something more affordable for your daily commute, getting something decent and economical for under R200k is possible. Here’s a quick breakdown of a few second-hand options that should be high on your list. All options are less than three years old.

Hyundai i20

The Hyundai i20 is a good choice for those seeking a versatile and well-rounded hatchback. With its stylish exterior and refined interior, the i20 has a sense of sophistication. The cabin offers a spacious and comfortable environment, complete with modern features and intuitive controls. On the road, the i20 delivers a smooth and composed ride, thanks to its refined suspension and responsive handling.

Whether you’re navigating urban streets or embarking on a weekend adventure, the i20’s fuel-efficient engine ensures an economical journey. With its attractive price point and Hyundai’s reputation for reliability, the Hyundai i20 is a compelling option for budget-conscious drivers.

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Price: R190 000 – R200 000
Model year: 2022+
Average mileage: 15 000 – 30 000 km
Transmission: manual
Max power: 61 kW
Fuel consumption: 5,9/100 km

Suzuki Swift

The Suzuki Swift Hatch has earned its reputation as a beloved and affordable compact car. With its sleek and sporty design, the Swift stands out from the crowd. Its peppy engine delivers an enjoyable driving experience, perfect for zipping through city streets or tackling winding roads. The Swift’s compact size makes it agile and easy to manoeuvre while still providing ample space for passengers and cargo.

Packed with modern features and safety technologies, the Swift offers a comfortable and convenient ride. With its impressive fuel efficiency and attractive price tag, the Suzuki Swift Hatch is a top contender in the under R200 000 category.

Price: R150 000 – R170 000
Model year: 2021+
Average mileage: 20 000 – 50 000 km
Transmission: manual
Max power: 61 kW
Fuel consumption: 4,9/100km

Renault Kiger

The Renault Kiger is a dynamic and stylish compact crossover that is a slightly different offering to its hatchback rivals. Inside, it offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin, complete with modern features and a user-friendly infotainment system.

The Kiger’s peppy engine provides ample power for both city commutes and highway drives, while its nimble handling and compact size make it a breeze to manoeuvre in tight spaces. With its competitive pricing and generous features the Kiger is a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyer who wants to step into a crossover.

Price: R180 000 – R190 000
Model year: 2021+
Average mileage: 15 000 – 30 000 km
Transmission: manual
Max power: 52 kW
Fuel consumption: 5,3/100 km

Toyota Starlet

The Toyota Starlet is a nameplate that has made a triumphant comeback as a compact hatchback. Combining Toyota’s renowned reliability with a sleek and modern design, the Starlet offers a lot for the money.

Its efficient engine provides a perfect balance of power and fuel economy. It’s nimble nature and compact dimensions makes it ideal to navigate through crowded streets. Inside the cabin, the Starlet offers a comfortable and well-designed space, equipped with advanced technology and safety features.

With its affordable price tag and Toyota’s reputation for durability along with its massive dealer network, the Starlet is a compelling choice for those seeking a dependable and budget-friendly hatchback.

Price: R150 000 – R170 000
Model year: 2021+
Average mileage: 30 000 – 50 000 km
Transmission: manual
Max power: 68 kW
Fuel consumption: 5,1/100 km

Volkswagen Polo Vivo

The Volkswagen Polo Vivo has established itself as a reliable and popular choice in the sub-R200 000 category. As a compact hatchback, it showcases Volkswagen’s signature build quality and attention to detail.

The Polo Vivo boasts a conservative yet sleek design and a modern interior that exudes comfort and sophistication. It offers a smooth and composed ride, aided by responsive handling and efficient engines.

The cabin provides ample space for both passengers and cargo, and it’s equipped with a range of features for convenience and entertainment. With Volkswagen’s reputation for longevity and resale value, the Polo Vivo is a smart choice for budget-conscious car buyers.

Price: R180 000 – R200 000
Model year: 2021+
Average mileage: 20 000 – 30 000 km
Transmission: manual
Max power: 55 kW
Fuel consumption: 5,7/100 km

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