There’s something about the new year that makes us itchy for big decisions. New job. New gym contract. And yes, a shiny new car to match your “new me”. That new-car smell is nothing short of aromatherapy. But before you speed off to the dealership, here’s a little insider intel that suggests you might want to hit the brakes on that idea.

The best time to buy a car isn’t necessarily when your resolutions are popping off and your December bonus is still smiling at you. In fact, knowing when to buy (and when to update your car insurance) could save you thousands. Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the market and understand the best buying periods.

RELATED: MORE THAN CAR INSURANCE

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Buy a Car in South Africa?

When it comes to buying a car in South Africa, timing isn't just everything, it could save you thousands. Especially when industry bodies such as the Automotive Business Council are already pointing out that South African buyers are having to juggle what they want with what they can afford, as global factors continue to affect local prices and availability.

Best time to buy (especially pre-owned): End of the year
Toward the end of the year, manufacturers push new-car sales to clear inventory before the next model year. This leads to more trade-ins and a larger supply of used vehicles at competitive prices.

Best time to sell or trade in: Start of the year
Dealerships increase trade-in values to stimulate sales of both remaining stock and incoming models.

This timing creates a natural advantage for buyers who can wait until late in the year, and for sellers who hold off until January or February.

Contextual Factors to Consider

Urban vs rural markets:
Urban dealerships follow predictable trade-in and inventory cycles, while rural markets rely more on private sales, making vehicle condition and mileage more influential than timing.

Demand cycles:
Early-year demand for affordable, entry-level cars increases amongst matriculants, new graduates, and first-time employees seeking budget-friendly transportation.

Depreciation:
Cars with strong brand reputations tend to retain their value longer, while niche or unreliable models depreciate more quickly.

Macro-economic conditions:
Interest rates, consumer confidence, and supply availability heavily influence pricing for both new and used cars.

Current Market Leaders

According to Cars.co.za, some of the top-selling vehicles in 2025 included the Suzuki Swift, VW Polo Vivo, Toyota Starlet, Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Grand i10, Haval Jolion, and similar value-focused models signalling that affordability remains the key driver.

When’s the Best Time to Get Your Car Insurance?

The best time to get your car insurance is before you put your new car in gear (whether new or pre-owned).

Why timing matters:

Your car is most vulnerable on day one.

You don’t want to drive uninsured — not even to the petrol station.

Dealerships will often require proof of cover before you drive off.

If you’re upgrading or switching cars, ensure insurance is active before taking ownership.

Car Insurance Policy Reviews

New year, new car or same old trusty steed with a new steering wheel cover; January is naturally the best time to ensure that your cover still matches your needs. A car insurance policy review is one of the easiest ways to save money without compromising your cover.

Why? Because cars age. Prices shift. Your financial situation changes. And cover that worked for you two years ago might not cover enough now.

A good policy review checks:

Are you over-insured?

Under-insured?

Paying for things you don’t need?

Missing benefits you do need?

Do you still drive the same amount?

Are you still paying for extras you don’t use?

And if the jargon stresses you out, don’t worry, we make it easy to compare, tweak, and update your cover online.

Digital Car Insurance: Why South Africans Are Switching

As South Africans, we’ve grown to love convenience. We do almost everything online. Groceries. Flights. Dating. Therapy. Weekend getaway deals at 2am. So naturally, digital car insurance is the next evolution.

Whereas buying car insurance used to require queues, paperwork, phone calls, background hold music from 1997, and awkward small talk about your car’s mileage – now, you can cover your ride entirely online in minutes.

Benefits of going digital:

Instant cover
No waiting days for a broker to “get back to you.”

Anywhere, anytime
Quote and buy from your couch. Or the dealership. No calls, no pressure, no “hold please.”

It’s fast
Typically under 3 minutes.

It’s affordable
Digital = fewer overheads = better prices.

Easy to adjust
You need to change your excess? Car value? Add a driver? Choose what you need. Skip what you don’t, all in a few clicks.

Modern behaviour, modern protection
Cars evolved. Drivers evolved. Insurance had to evolve too.

So, New Year, New Car?

Whether you’re replacing your vehicle, upgrading, or simply planning for 2026, staying informed and timing your decisions strategically can help you get the best value. But no matter when you buy, one rule stays the same: Sort out your car insurance before your tyres hit the tar.

Here are the key takeaways:

End of year: Best time to buy, especially used vehicles

Start of year: Best time to sell and review your insurance

Immediately: Best time to insure a new or used vehicle

Digital insurance: The easiest, most convenient way to get cover.

Whether you’re driving a Suzuki Swift, Toyota Starlet, Haval Jolion, or that one hatchback that refuses to die, the smartest move you can make this year is protecting your wheels properly.

Get fast, simple, safe and affordable cover online, or get in touch for more info.

THE BEST TIME TO BUY A CAR IN SA (AND INSURANCE THAT FITS)