Best Chinese Cars in South Africa 2026: GWM, Haval, Chery & BYD

South Africa is RHD, price-sensitive, and dominated by two body styles: the bakkie and the compact SUV. Chinese brands have taken real market share in both. Remember the permit rule — used passenger cars need an ITAC permit for home use, while in-transit units to Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Malawi do not.

1. GWM P-Series / Steed bakkie

2. Haval Jolion and H6

3. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro / Tiggo 7 Pro

4. Foton / JAC light trucks

5. BYD Atto 3 (Cape Town / Johannesburg buyers)

What to avoid

Structure the shipment correctly