German brands recorded another subdued performance in Namibia’s vehicle market in November 2025, delivering 119 units and securing a 9.6% market share, according to Simonis Storm economist Almandro Jansen.
Volkswagen accounted for 85 units, followed by Mercedes-Benz with 21 units, with sales increasingly concentrated in rental and corporate fleet channels as private buyers become more price conscious.
Japanese manufacturers, however, continued to dominate the market during the month, recording 857 units sold and accounting for 68.9% of total vehicle sales. Jansen said the figures reflect the continued strength of Japanese brands despite rising competition.
On a year-to-date basis, cumulative sales for Japanese brands reached 8,718 units, lifting market share to about 65%, up from 63% over the same period last year. Jansen said this performance points to sustained demand across both passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles.
Toyota remained central to this performance, supported by strong demand for its core models.
“Toyota remains the cornerstone of this performance, underpinned by sustained demand for high-volume models such as the Hilux, Corolla Cross and Fortuner,” Jansen said.
However, he noted that the pace of Toyota’s monthly growth has begun to moderate, suggesting the market may be moving towards a more mature phase.
Competitive pressure is also becoming more pronounced, particularly from fast-expanding Chinese brands that are reshaping purchasing decisions.
Looking ahead, Jansen said the expected rollout of new-generation models, including the ninth-generation Hilux anticipated in 2026, could stimulate renewed demand and recalibrate competition within the bakkie segment.
Chinese manufacturers continued to increase their presence in the market, with sales reaching 122 units in November, translating into a 9.8% market share, more than double the level recorded a year earlier.
“Chinese manufacturers are expanding their footprint at a rapid rate, with sales reaching 122 units in November and market share more than doubling year on year,” Jansen said.
GWM maintained its position as the leading Chinese brand with 26 units sold, while momentum is also building among newer entrants such as Omoda, Jetour and Jaecoo. Jansen said these brands are becoming more visible as dealership networks expand.
“The appeal of these brands continues to rest on competitive pricing, contemporary SUV designs and improving dealership coverage, with new Jetour models entering the market in November 2025,” he said.
Within the American segment, Jansen said Ford led sales with 66 units, representing 5.5% of total monthly volumes, although pricing remains a constraint in the local market.
Overall, Jansen said the November figures point to a gradual structural realignment in Namibia’s automotive market. While Japanese brands continue to command a clear lead, he said Chinese manufacturers are increasingly emerging as credible mainstream competitors.
