Budget Car Finder: Cheapest Used Cars in KZN Ranked by Reliability

If you live in Johannesburg, you already know used car prices in Gauteng have climbed fast. But head to KwaZulu-Natal and you often find better value. Durban’s private sellers, coastal dealers, and auction houses list cars at lower prices than Joburg averages.

The trick is knowing which models are worth the drive down the N3 to collect. Below is a ranked look at the cheapest used cars between R20,000 and R80,000, comparing reliability, maintenance costs, and what you’ll actually find in the KZN market.

Why KZN’s Used Car Market Often Beats Joburg

• Lower demand in smaller towns like Pietermaritzburg and Richards Bay keeps prices modest.

• Coastal conditions mean you must check for rust, but most KZN cars log fewer highway kilometers.

• More private sales than dealer stock, which means less markup but more inspection effort.

If you’re based in Johannesburg, buying from KZN can save you R5,000–R15,000 on the same model. Many Joburg buyers already road-trip down, finalize the sale, and drive back up with change to spare.

The R20,000–R35,000 Range: Joburg Mechanics’ Favorites

Toyota Tazz / Conquest

• Known as South Africa’s most fixable car.

• Easy to service, parts found at almost any spares shop.

• Average maintenance: R2,000–R3,000 per year.

• Common in Durban North and Pinetown listings.

Volkswagen Citi Golf

• Built tough. A KZN favorite among students and delivery drivers.

• Mechanics in Joburg love these because every part is local.

• Service parts cheap; expect R2,500 yearly upkeep.

Opel Corsa Lite

• Light, nimble, perfect for short coastal commutes.

• Expect minor clutch or gearbox wear on older models.

• Service cost R2,000–R3,000 yearly.

Tip: KZN coastal humidity means body panels rust faster, so focus on mechanical condition over paint.

R35,000–R60,000: Value Picks Worth the Drive

Hyundai Getz

• Commonly listed in Port Shepstone and Newcastle.

• Reliable with decent comfort.

• Parts slightly pricier in smaller towns but easy to source in Joburg.

• Annual upkeep R3,000–R4,000.

Suzuki Swift (first gen)

• KZN drivers love it for its size and reliability.

• Often imported through Durban, so more choice in the province.

• Maintenance R3,500–R4,500/year.

Ford Fiesta / Ikon

• Used by many city driving schools. Good suspension, good steering.

• Watch out for gearbox wear; replacement costs can reach R4,000–R6,000.

R60,000–R80,000: Safer, Newer, Still Affordable

Toyota Corolla (older models)

• Many Joburg buyers collect Corollas from Durban because prices are lower.

• Maintenance predictable, parts cheap, and resale high.

• Annual cost R4,000–R5,000.

Honda Ballade

• Built to last. Slightly pricier parts, but you service less often.

• Seen in both Joburg and KZN family car listings.

• Maintenance R4,500–R5,500/year.

Nissan Almera / Tiida

• Spacious, reliable, but less resale value.

• Ideal for buyers who plan to keep it long-term.

• Maintenance R3,500–R4,500/year.

Where to Browse Cars for Sale in KZN

Click Here For a more comprehensive report on Industry News & Stats Reports.

To Browse More Cheap Cars for Sale in Kwazulu-Natal visit Car Mag