It’s no easy task choosing a car these days, and with new models introduced every month, the choices are endless. However, the biggest challenge when looking to purchase a vehicle, is getting one that will be most suitable for your lifestyle and pocket. In this segment of the market balancing specification with a low pricetag has resulted in some interesting price battles.

Remember, you can negotiate with dealers to obtain a bit of a discount and to get things like smash n grab thrown in. If you’re cash-strapped, these models also hold their value quite well and low-mileage demonstration units will be cheaper.

Best NewCar Buys Under R150 000 in South Africa

Suzuki Swift 1.2

Starting at R126900, the latest Suzuki Swift 1.2 was launched as a budget model with the same great characteristics of its pricier 1.4 sibling. The model is offered with two specification levels, the option of a four-speed automatic gearbox, and is powered by a 1.2-litre engine.

This base GA trim also comes with a number of standard features such as manual air-conditioning with pollen filter, front head restraints, a remote tailgate release, sun visors with a vanity mirror for the front passenger occupants, a parcel shelf behind the rear bench seat, and four loudspeakers. Boot space is a little on the small side, but that shouldn’t deter you from this stellar deal.

Read more about the Swift 1.2 range here.

Hyundai Grand i10

The recently launched Hyundai Grand i10, marketed as a replacement for the popular Hyundai Getz, kicks off at R139900 for the 1.25 Motion manual derivative. For that price you get standard air-conditioning, electric window operation, a standard RCD radio with CD/USB/MP3 compatibility, an on-board driving-function computer and central locking.

The model additionally benefits from an impressive five year/150 000 km warranty as part of the R139 900 price, while service intervals are 15 000 km.

Read more about the Hyundai Grand i10here.

Ford Figo

Although its last update was in 2012, the Ford Figo is one of the best cars to get in this price range in the B segment. Coming in at R135 900, the 1.4 Ambiente offers all the specification you need including aircon, CD/Aux radio, central locking, dual airbags and ABS.

There’s a choice of two drivetrains, the 1.4-litre Duratec petrol engine delivers 62 kW with maximum torque of 127 Nm. Combined fuel consumption for this engine is rated at 6.6-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 156g/km.

The 1.4-litre turbo diesel Duratorq engine generates 51 kW with a peak torque figure of 160 Nm. Fuel consumption for this unit is rated at 5.3-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 139g/km. Both variants are mated to a five-speed manual transmission. If running costs are your concern, we’d opt for the diesel as you’ll find this model incredibly economical.

Read more about the Ford Figohere.

Chevrolet Spark

Redesigned for the 2013 model year, the Chevrolet Spark is one car you need to get if you live in the city. Especially because it’s priced right, coming in at R106100 for the Spark 1.2 Campus and if you can stretch your budget even further you can get the Spark 1.2 LT for R136 500.

Power comes from a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine connected to a five-speed manual transmission, and delivers 60 kW at 6 400 rpm with a maximum torque of 108 Nm available at 4 800 rpm. Average fuel consumption is rated at 5.4-litres/100km with CO2 emissions of 129g/km.

The Spark is also relatively spacious for a car of its size and boasts 170-litres of luggage space, while the 60:40 split-folding seats offers additional space when required.

Read more about the Chevrolet Sparkhere.

Renault Sandero

Earlier this year Renault introduced the completely redesigned Sandero offered in two specifications, Expression and Dynamique, the latter coming in at R133 900 while the Expression retails for R141 500.

These prices set you up with a vehicle equipped with cruise control, speed limiter, radio with Mp3/USB/Bluetooth, satellite radio controls, and electric windows all round, leather steering wheel and alloy wheels.

In addition, the models are fitted with anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, emergency brake assist, dual front airbags, electronic stability program with anti-skid regulation (ASR) and hill assist.

It’s one of the most kitted vehicles and none of the competition comes with the same comfort gadgets and safety features. Read and watch our video of theRenault Sandero here.

Best New Car Buys Under R150 000 in South Africa

To make things easier, we’ve tabled the Best New Car Buys Under R150 000 in South Africa, so you can compare them. For more car comparisons, click here.