Cars are complex creations. Stripped back, they're simply a means of mobility, a tool that allows us to maximise the usage of our time. Yet, these machines mean so much more to us. They're our freedom, income generators, and expressions of self. We choose our cars based on our budgets, specific needs and, rather importantly, how they look.
Related: What are the best Crossover vehicles in 2024?
Style is one of those subjective matters; what looks good to you may not look so good to someone else. If we all liked the same thing and wanted the same thing, there would be one car, and everything on the road would look the same. We've compiled a list of the Top 10 best-looking vehicles that fall on the more affordable side of the spectrum, costing no more than R400 000 brand new.
Take a look at our list, arranged from cheapest to most expensive, and see if you agree!
1. Toyota Vitz / Suzuki Celerio
From R189 900 (Vitz) / R188 900 (Celerio)
The shared platform Vitz and Celerio is one of the most affordable new cars you can buy at the moment. Powered by a zippy, but fuel-efficient 1.0-litre petrol engine, the little Vitz/Celerio is perfect for the daily commute in and around the city and town. Its cheeky styling is almost animated in appearance, the large headlights giving it an almost caricature look.
2. Fiat 500
From R268 900
There's no better way to describe the Fiat 500 other than retro chic. The compact little Italian oozes classic flair and blends it with contemporary style, combining LED lighting elements with curved aerodynamic surfaces. Some may regard it as erring on the feminine side, but a confident male will also be able to rock one!
3. Suzuki Ciaz
From R271 900
Here's one that will be controversial. In amongst the likes of the Honda Amaze and Kia Pegas, the Suzuki Ciaz stands out for us, blending enough youthful appeal with an elegance that belies its affordable pricing. Indeed, the Ciaz looks far more expensive than it is, and we think that makes it great for the young professional who is looking to make a cultured statement without ending up looking like an Uber driver.
4. Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
From R279 900
There's a reason that you see so many of these on the roads. Not only are they attractive and easy on the eye, but they're very affordable as well. Their impressive spec level is only part of the appeal, as the Tiggo 4 Pro is a good-looking crossover that certainly looks more expensive than its price tag suggests. Only the range-topping version breaks through the R400 000 mark, so you will have many to choose from.
5. Suzuki Fronx
From R288 900
The Suzuki Fronx is creating waves for all the right reasons. Great pricing, impressive specification levels, and attractive styling are making the Fronx crossover a local hit! So much so that Suzuki is having a hard time keeping up with the orders. The sporty styling, combined with the new-look front grille and split headlight treatment, makes the Fronx a contemporary hit. The longer you look at it, the better it gets!
6. Mazda Mazda2
From R307 100
The Mazda2 has been around for a while now, but the latest refresh of the styling and trim has just elevated it to a whole new level. The KODO design language has aged exceptionally well over the years, a testament to the great initial design. It looked modern and futuristic several years ago and still stands out in the crowd. The Mazda2 is definitely not for the faint-hearted, so only the bold need apply!
7. Renault Clio
From R312 999
In a world filled with crossovers, the compact hatchback is losing favour. As a result, the latest generation Renault Clio has fallen out of favour. A pity really, as the 5th-generation Clio is a striking machine with all the right hot-hatch pedigree. The combination of sporty pretensions and silky curves are complemented by small styling details that make the Clio more than 'just' a hatchback.
8. Peugeot 208
From R337 900
Peugeot gets a bad rap in South Africa, and that's a pity as the latest batch of offerings are achingly beautiful and surprisingly capable. Designed in such a way that it is unmistakably Peugeot, the 208 jumps off the page for its somewhat unique approach to the hatchback style. The 208 looks aggressive and vicious even when parked, the hard lines and straight edges carrying the brand's Lion motif.
9. Kia Sonet
From R360 995
There are a few compact crossovers to choose from in this price bracket but it's the Kia Sonet that appeals to us. It manages to take the styling elements from its larger siblings and execute them in a way that doesn't look out of place. As a result, you get a compact crossover with a big-car look and feel. The Kia 'tiger nose' front grille works well on the Sonet, and the satin silver and unpainted black trims make it look ready for anything you can throw at it.
10. Suzuki Jimny
From R390 900
If there's one vehicle on the road that grabs attention, it's the diminutive Suzuki Jimny. Another retro-cool design that looks both modern and classic, the Jimny is the accessory enthusiast's dream! Combine the affordable Defender/G-Wagon styling with the proverbial blank canvas that is the Jimny and you have a recipe for boundless self-expression! The fact that it's the cheapest SUV you can buy that has a true 4x4 system with low range is a bonus for the outdoorsy type.
