Hijackers love Toyotas, Fords, Volkswagens, and some Nissans, but SA's car market offers plenty of alternatives that thieves do not fancy. Nameplates like Subaru, Mitsubishi, older Ford hatchbacks, and even Renault don't really feature on their must-have list if you're looking for a car that's a safe bet - from a hijacking perspective, at least.
This informations comes from insurance companies such as King Price, the Fidelity Services group, and SAPS.
Don't let it happen to you! Top tips on hijack prevention
What car should you choose instead?
If you live in an area frequented by hijackers, take a look at our list of alternatives to the popular cars and car brands that thieves like to focus on.
1. Instead of a Toyota Fortuner, buy a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
The Pajero Sport is a seven-seater that doesn't get the attention it deserves. If you choose a four-wheel-driven model, its offroad capabilities are legendary. The rear-wheel-drive entry-level 2.4DiD model is priced at R789 990 but used models can be had at a song!
Also consider: Isuzu mu-X. Search AutoTrader for new and used models here.
Related: New cars vs. pre-owned treasures on the AutoTrader Podcast.
2. Instead of a Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger, rather buy a Mitsubishi Triton
The Triton, on which the Pajero Sport is based, is a brilliant bakkie. With its impressive towing capacity and a fuel-efficient engine, the Triton is a versatile workhorse that can handle any job you throw at it.
Also consider: Isuzu D-Max or a preloved Isuzu KB
Related: Is a used Mitsubishi Triton a good car?
Mitsubishi Triton vs Navara vs Ranger vs Ford Ranger
3. Instead of a Toyota Corolla Cross, opt for a Hyundai Creta
Hyundai models aren't a target for hijackers and offer plenty of comfort and low running costs. The entry-level Creta 1.5 Premium manual (5-seater) costs R469 500 new.
Also consider: Renault Duster, Hyundai Venue, Nissan Magnite, Kia Sonet
Related: Kia Seltos vs Toyota Corolla Cross vs Huyundai Creta
4. Instead of a Toyota RAV4, go for a Subaru Forester
Subarus are not on any thieves' hit list, and the Forester is a great car in its own right. Chad Lückhoff reviews it in this video.
Sean also reviews the Subaru Forester 2.5i-Sport ES (2022) here.
Also consider: Mitsubishi Outlander (read Taye's review here.)
Related: Mitsubishi Outlander vs Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester
5. Instead of a Volkswagen Polo, buy a Hyundai i20
Stylish looks and peppy performance, low running costs and a high reliability rating make the Hyundai i20 a top choice. Search AutoTrader for new and used Hyundai i20 models.
Also consider: Mazda2 or Mazda3
Related: Hyundai i20 vs Suzuki Swift vs VW Polo - which is best value?
6. Instead of a Nissan NP200, buy a Mahindra Pik Up
The Mahindra brand has really shown its mettle in the last few years, especially where the Pik Up range is concerned. Four-wheel-driven models are especially skilled and we've seen videos of these vehicles going places even FJ Cruisers can't. Search AutoTrader here for used Pik Up single cabs.
Related: GWM Steed vs Mahindra Pik Up vs JMC Vigus
8. Instead of a Ford Ranger Single Cab, get a Isuzu D-Max Gen 6
I'm sure most 'Saffas' are aware that Isuzus just last and last, with some models clocking over a million kilometres. They're also highly adept at towing heavy loads and keeping fuel consumption low. Driving from Jo'burg to Cape Town on a single tank is totally doable!
Isuzu Gen 6 250cc single cabs start from R368 200, but we recommend the Gen 6 Fleetside Safety at R426 800 for added peace of mind.
Related: Isuzu bolsters D-Max range
Also consider: Mitsubishi Triton 2.4DI-D single cab GL, from R454 8995
Which other cars don't interest hijackers?
According to our above-mentioned sources, the other least-hijacked cars in SA include the Ford Fiesta, Figo, Nissan Almera and Magnite, Suzuki Vitara/Grand Vitara, and Renault Clio.
