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New car prices are ridiculous, and you can rest assured they will continue to rise unabated. New24 Motoring contributor Pritesh Ruthun looks at four new cars you could buy if you spend R200 000 or less.
The South African Reserve Bank recently raised the repo rate a further 0.25 per cent. This makes it more expensive to borrow money to finance your new car straight off the bat in 2023.
Fortunately, several car makers are offering in-house finance packages that make it more affordable (at least month-to-month) to drive something new, with a warranty and maybe a little bit of a service plan for peace of mind motoring.
If you're a student looking for a compact runaround or running a small business from home and need to get from A to B for meetings, one of these no-frills cars might appeal to you.
1. Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GA
The Suzuki Celerio is a budget-friendly and practical car that offers great value for money. With its impressive fuel efficiency and low cost of ownership, it's the perfect car for those looking to save money at the pump. Despite its compact size, the Celerio has a spacious interior, making it a great option for small families or those who need a practical car for city driving. And, with its reliable performance and low maintenance costs, you can be sure that this car will keep you going kilometre after kilometre without breaking the bank.
So, if you're looking for a car that's as cheap to run as it is to buy, the Celerio is definitely worth a look! And remember, good things come in small packages - especially when it comes to fuel economy. Just remember, if you're looking for a car that can win races or make you feel like royalty, the Suzuki Celerio might not be the one for you. It's not the most powerful car on the road, and you won't find any fancy bells and whistles inside.
In fact, you might find the ride a bit rough compared to more premium vehicles. And let's not forget, the trunk space is limited, so if you're planning a road trip with all your luggage, you might want to think twice. But hey, at least you won't have to over-finance yourself for a fancy car with all the extras you'll never use! If you're looking for a no-nonsense, budget-friendly option, the 4.4-litre per 100km Celerio might just be your ride.
Price: R178 900 (expect to pay around R3600pm with a 10% deposit)
2. Renault KWID 1.0 Zen
The Renault Kwid 1.0 Zen is the perfect car for those looking for affordability, practicality, and style. With its budget-friendly price tag and fuel efficiency, you won't have to over-commit to car payments just to get around town. But, despite its small size, the Kwid offers a surprisingly spacious interior that will make you feel like you're driving a much larger car.
The modern design is a bonus, and with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, and rear parking sensors, the Kwid offers great value for money.
So, if you're looking for a car that's cheap to run, has plenty of space, and looks great on the road, the Renault Kwid 1.0 Zen is definitely worth a look. Just don't expect it to do any moon landings or make you a cup of coffee. But hey, it's a car, not a spaceship, even though it looks like one!
The Renault Kwid 1.0 Zen might not be the best option for those looking for a car that offers power and luxury. The lack of horsepower and acceleration, basic safety features, and limited interior and exterior design options can be seen as drawbacks. Additionally, the car's NVH levels might not be up to par with higher-end vehicles, and its long-term reliability and durability could also be a concern.
It's essential to weigh your options and consider what's most important to you before making a purchase. And, as with any financial decision, it's always wise to do your research, read reviews, and compare the 4.9-litre per 100km Kwid to similar vehicles before making a decision. This way, you can be sure that you're getting the best value for your money and making a decision you won't regret down the road.
Price: R190 999 (expect to pay around R3900pm with a 10% deposit)
3. Mahindra Bolero 1.5Di single cab Maxitruck Plus
The Mahindra Bolero Maxitruck is a light commercial vehicle produced by the Indian automaker Mahindra & Mahindra. It is based on the Mahindra Bolero utility vehicle but features a pick-up truck-style cargo bed for increased versatility and utility.
The Maxitruck is designed for commercial and small business use and is marketed as a low-cost solution for transporting goods and materials in rural and semi-urban areas. It is known for its rugged construction, durability, and capability as a workhorse vehicle.
The Bolero Maxitruck is an excellent choice for those looking for a cheap, reliable and practical light commercial vehicle. Its affordable price, durable construction, low maintenance costs, fuel efficiency, and surprisingly good resale value make it a smart investment for businesses and individuals alike.
The Maxitruck is designed to handle tough use and rough terrain, and its diesel engine provides good fuel efficiency to get more miles for your money. And with its versatility and utility, it's no wonder why the 7.0 litre per 100km Mahindra Bolero Maxitruck is so highly regarded. Just like spicy Indian food, it's a hot commodity that won't break the bank!
Price: R198 999 (expect to pay around R3950pm with a 10% deposit)
4. Toyota Agya 1.0
The Toyota Agya is the perfect car for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable and practical vehicle. Its affordable price, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs make it a smart choice for anyone looking to save money. The compact size of the Agya makes it a breeze to drive in crowded urban areas and tight spaces, so you'll have no trouble navigating through traffic. And with its reputation for reliability, you can count on the Agya to keep you on the road for years to come. It's the perfect car for anyone looking to start their career as an Uber driver!
Just imagine all the money you'll save on petrol and maintenance. You'll be rolling in the dough (or, rather, the passengers) in no time! The Toyota Agya 1.0, however, may not be the best car to consider for those in the market for a luxurious new ride. With limited features, a small interior space, and underwhelming performance, it may fall short of meeting the needs of some buyers.
And let's not forget the elephant in the room: Toyota's history of safety recall issues. It's always a good idea to research a vehicle's history before making a purchase, and in the case of the 4.8-litre per 100km Toyota Agya 1.0, you should take extra precautions.
Shopping for an affordable car can be a bit overwhelming, but with some foresight and research, you can make an intelligent choice. Firstly, set a budget and stick to it. It's important to consider the total cost of ownership, including insurance, annual fees, maintenance, and fuel.
Secondly, think about your needs, whether it's size, performance, or features.
Reliability and safety are also important, so research the vehicles you're considering. Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor to keep in mind, especially if you're trying to save money at the pump.
Don't forget about maintenance costs, too, as some cars can be expensive to keep in good condition. Look for a comprehensive warranty, and finally, take each car for a test drive to get a feel for it. Unless you've won the Powerball jackpot, it's best to be mindful of your budget.
Price: R200 000 (expect to pay around R4000pm with a 10% deposit)
Other new cars you can consider under R200 000 include the Suzuki S-Presso, Suzuki Super Carry, Mahindra KUV100 Nxt, Suzuki DZire, and Hyundai Atos.
