Ford Ranger tops local sales charts in February

The local new-vehicle industry recorded another solid month of growth in February, with the Motor Industry Association confirming a 4.1% year-on-year lift — although registrations were still down on what was recorded in January.

A total of 10,193 new vehicles were registered in February — the healthy five-figure number down 13.6% on January’s 11,806 registrations. 

According to MIA chief executive Aimee Wiley, the total signals a “stable” industry.

“Both the monthly and year-to-date figures show moderate growth compared with 2025, with light passenger vehicles continuing to account for around 70% of registrations,” said Wiley.

“While heavy commercial volumes remain slightly below last year, the February lift is encouraging. The industry continues to respond to stable but competitive trading conditions.” 

The Ford Ranger was once again the country’s top nameplate, with 761 registrations. The popular pick-up now leads the Toyota RAV4 in year-to-date registrations 1448 registrations to 1008.

The Ranger’s nearest rival in February actually wasn’t Toyota’s mid-size SUV. Rather, Hyundai recorded a very strong month with its Tucson, notching up 418 registrations. 

The Nissan Navara had a strong month, winding up third overall with 411 registrations. February saw the Japanese marque’s all-new Navara arrive at dealerships nationwide, with the brand confirming an introductory deal on ST-X and PRO-4X variants.

The top 10 was rounded out by the Toyota RAV4 (369), Mitsubishi ASX (308), Toyota Hilux (297), Ford Everest (275), Toyota Hiace (263), Mitsubishi Triton (259), and MG ZS (243).

In the electric passenger vehicle stakes, Zeekr recorded a strong month with its striking 7X mid-size SUV, with 71 registrations. It led the MG ZS EV (51), BYD Atto 1 (38), and BYD Atto 2 (38). 

BYD led the plug-in hybrid market, recording 92 registrations with its recently launched Sealion 5, beating the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (49), Jaecoo J7 SHS (41), and BYD Sealion 6 (39).