We’ve rounded up the five best-selling compact SUVs priced from under R300k in SA in March 2026. Here’s the list, based on the latest naamsa sales stats, and why these models topped the charts.
5. Nissan Magnite – 953 units
Image: Nissan
The fifth-best seller in March 2026 is the Nissan Magnite, priced from R252 200. The Magnite earned an upgraded safety rating in 2025 and comes with two powertrain options: a 53 kW/96 Nm 1.0-litre, three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol, and a 74 kW/160 Nm turbo-triple of similar capacity. The NA engine can be paired with either a five-speed manual or an automated manual (AMT) with a similar number of gears, while the turbo engine is available with the manual gearbox and a CVT.
4. Kia Sonet – 958 units
Image: Kia
The Kia Sonet sits just behind Magnite, with 958 units sold. It starts from R299 995 (the panel van variant is from R294 995). The base 1.5-litre NA engine delivers 85 kW and 144 Nm, available with either a six-speed manual or CVT. There’s also a 1.0-litre turbo-triple delivering 88 kW and 172 Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT); only the model with this engine is priced at R436 995.
3. Mahindra XUV 3XO – 1 056 units
Image: Mahindra
The Mahindra XUV 3XO is another strong performer, with 1 056 units sold. It’s priced from R259 999. All models come with a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 82 kW and 200 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. It’s also one of the 10 best-selling passenger cars in SA in March 2026 and was featured in our 2025 SUV Shootout.
2. Suzuki Fronx – 1 179 units
Image: Suzuki
The Suzuki Fronx sells in the second spot, with 1 179 units moved. It starts from R299 900 and sticks with Suzuki’s familiar K15B powertrain. You can choose between a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. The 1.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine delivers 77 kW and 138 Nm.
1. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro/Cross – 1 888 units
Image: Chery
Leading the pack is the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro/Cross, with 1 888 units sold. It’s priced from R269 900. In March 2026, it was the second-best-selling passenger car in SA and the top-selling Chinese passenger car in SA for the month. The Tiggo 4 Pro/Cross accounted for nearly 79% of Chery’s local March 2026 sales, helping the brand top the list of best-selling Chinese car brands in SA for March 2026.
