Hunting for a decent set of wheels is challenging when your budget is very limited, and most of us would rather not settle for a skoroskoro. But what's out there that offers increased riding height, reliability, and the necessary safety features that doesn't break the bank? You'd be surprised.
1. Toyota Etios Cross
If your budget is tight, look no further than the Etios Cross. It's safe for an entry-level car, has a peppy 1.5-litre engine, and will last you for many happy years. We think it has aged rather well, too. Pricing starts from around R90k. Read our Etios reviews here.
Find used Etios and Etios Cross models here.
2. Suzuki Ignis
The ultimate city-slicking baby SUV, with more space on the second row than you'd imagine! Cheap running and servicing costs make this fun-to-drive crossover a winner. Prices for the most affordable models start at R95k. Read all our Suzuki Ignis reviews here.
Please note that the earlier models did not have stability control; it was only added in 2023.
Find used Suzuki Ignis models here.
3. Mazda CX-3
The naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine in the CX-3 ensures you have plenty of power on tap, and the CX-3 is known for being a dynamic little thing. Mazda cars also have an excellent reputation for reliability in SA and are affordable to maintain. We also love its interior ergonomics. The pricing of used models starts around R150 000. Read all our CX-3 reviews here.
Search AutoTrader here for used CX-3 models.
4. Volkswagen Cross Polo
If you can locate a diesel model of the Cross Polo, its economical engine will provide you with virtually limitless mobility. This car is truly impressive, and here are the top 3 things you need to know about it.
(Don't throw away the cheaper Polo Vivo Maxx, either.)
The most affordable Cross Polo models are priced from around R100k.
Find Cross Polo models here.
5. Mahindra XUV300
The Mahindra 3X0 recently replaced the XUV300, one of the safest cars in the segment.
Under the hood, you'll find either a 1.2-litre turbo petrol or a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine. The diesel is our top choice, but pricing starts at R180k, while patrols are slightly more affordable at R150k. Read all our XUV300 reviews here.
Find pre-loved Mahindra XUV300 models here.
Other crossovers and SUVs you should consider
Honda's crossovers are all good, especially the larger CR-V SUV, which will practically last forever. The BR-V/WR-V and H-RV are also good choices.
From Hyundai, the Venue, iX35, and older Tucson, as well as sister company's Kia Sportage, are reliable buys, along with the Kia Sonet, but they're still quite new, so still quite pricey. )The iX30 is one of our top 3 SUVs that are the cheapest to maintain.)
Suzuki's SX4 will also be a great used buy, along with the newer Vitara Brezza, on which the previous-generation Toyota Urban Cruiser is based, which is just as good.
The Ford Figo Freestyle is a fabulous student or pensioner's car (my mom owns one) while the Kia Picanto X-Line is also a winner, if you can find them!
Related: Renault Sandero vs Polo Vivo Maxx vs Toyota Etios
