Volkswagen Polo
The Volkswagen Polo is frequently hijacked in South Africa. This hatchback, also one of SA's best-selling passenger vehicles, is a popular choice among young professionals and families, and the fact that there are so many of these cars on our roads, means they blend in and are easy to steal, especially older models that don't have sophisticated security features. As with the Hilux, white and silver are the most popular colour choices with thieves.
Alternatives: Consider a Kia Rio, Hyundai i20 or a pre-loved Ford Fiesta. And it's worth knowing that Suzukis aren't popular with hijackers at all!
Toyota Hilux & Fortuner
It may be South Africa's best-selling bakkie, but it's also the most hijacked bakkie in the country, according to the South African Police Service. The Hilux is often targeted by criminals because of its reputation for toughness and reliability. Hijackers prefer white, with silver as their second choice.
The Hilux as well as the Fortuner are also highjacked often because of their compatibility with the Toyota Quantum, which is targeted by thieves who strip it to be stolen and sold for parts.
Alternatives: Consider a Mitsubishi Triton or Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Read our latest review of the Mitsubishi Triton (2022).
Nissan NP200
The Nissan NP200 is a popular small utility vehicle used in many industries across South Africa, ranking third on the list of most hijacked vehicles. This is largely due to its affordability and the high demand for parts, making it a target for theft and resale. Its relatively simple design and lack of advanced security features also make it an easier target for thieves.
Alternatives: Opel Corsa bakkie
Search AutoTrader for used Opel Corsa bakkies here
Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is a rugged and capable bakkie that's popular with fleets, families, business owners, and outdoor enthusiasts. Unfortunately, it's also a favourite among car thieves, who often target it for its high resale value.
The Ranger is often stolen in rural areas, where it's also used for criminal activities such as smuggling and poaching. As for the colour preference - you guessed it - white, and then silver. According to Quarter One's crime statistics (SAPS), the Ranger is a favourite in the eastern part of SA, and stolen Rangers that were recovered were making their way to Mozambique!
Alternatives: Although the Isuzu KB/D-Max is less popular, it's not immune (like any other car).
Search AutoTrader here for new and used Isuzu D-Max models
When are cars usually hijacked?
Eugene Herbert from Masterdrive notes that the most vulnerable times for carjackings include Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings between 6 pm and 9 pm.
Another dangerous period is Friday and Saturday nights from 9 pm until midnight. The peak traffic hours of 6 am to 9 am are also high-risk times for hijackings.
Furthermore, reduced visibility at night between 6 pm and midnight, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, can also increase the likelihood of carjackings. Therefore, it's important to be extra cautious during these times.
Also bear in mind that hijackings can really occur at any time, as thieves are opportunistic.
Related: Best car tracking devices
How to protect your car from being hijacked
If you own one of these cars or are considering buying one, it's important to take steps to protect yourself from hijacking. This includes installing a tracking device that will increase the chances of recovering your vehicle if it is stolen.
Watch: The AutoTrader Podcast - The Car Tracking Episode
How to prevent getting hijacked in the first place
Don't let it happen to you! Read our top tips on Hijack Prevention in SA.
We've also listed some of the hijacking hotspots in the article above, but you can find the full list here.
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