Which car has the lowest monthly instalments?
There are many factors that will determine the monthly cap payment you get, but, generally speaking, the biggest one is the initial purchase price. It therefore makes sense that the cheapest car should have the lowest monthly car payment.
As of March 2026, the car with the lowest monthly instalment in South Africa is typically the Renault Kwid 1.0 Evolution, followed very closely by the Suzuki S-Presso and Toyota Vitz.
Related: How does the Suzuki S-Presso compare to the Renault Kwid?
While exact instalments fluctuate based on your credit score and the interest rate you're offered, these entry-level models are consistently the cheapest, with retail prices generally starting under R180,000.
Suzuki S-Presso vs Renault Kwid vs Tata Tiago: Which one has the lowest running costs?
Lowest monthly instalment contenders
The following table compares the budget champions based on standard finance terms (72 months, ~12% interest, and a 10% deposit).
| Vehicle | Estimated Monthly Instalment | Retail Price (Approx.) |
| Renault Kwid 1.0 Evolution | R2 400 – R2 600 | R178 799 |
| Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 GL | R2 400 – R2 700 | R178 900 |
| Toyota Vitz 1.0 MT | R2 500 – R2 800 | R178 800 |
| Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GA | R2,600 – R2 900 | R188 900 |
How to get the absolute lowest payment
If you are looking for the smallest possible number on your monthly debit order, dealerships often use specific financial "tricks":
Balloon Payments: Many Suzuki and Renault deals advertise instalments as low as R2 399 by deferring up to 35-40% of the car's value to the very end of the contract. Note: You will owe a large lump sum at the end.
Extended Terms: Financing over 72 or even 84 months will drop the monthly cost but increase the total interest you pay over time.
Zero-Deposit vs. 10% Deposit: Putting down a R18 000 deposit (10%) can shave roughly R350–R500 off your monthly payment.
A note on the cheapest
While the Renault Kwid holds the title for the lowest list price by a single Rand, the Suzuki S-Presso often offers more aggressive promotional finance deals, such as the "Buy Now, Pay in 3 Months" offer, which might make it more accessible in the short term.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to factor in compulsory comprehensive insurance, which can add R800 to R1,500 to your monthly car budget, depending on your age and driving history.
