Vehicle hijacking remains a huge concern for South African motorists, with around 60 vehicles hijacked per day according to South African Police Service SAPS statistics, and significant increases in provinces such as the Eastern Cape and Western Cape have been recorded.
Although it is commonly assumed that vehicles with a bit more stand out appeal, such as those in brighter colours, would be less of a target, new information suggests this may no longer be the case.
White and silver vehicles were traditionally the biggest hijack targets, but there is a growing demand among criminals for vehicles in non-traditional colours such as yellow and orange, according to MotorHappy, a division of retail giant Motus. While hijackers once avoided these vehicles due to their visibility, there has reportedly been a shift in criminal behaviour in recent times.
Vehicle theft is of course linked to the supply and demand dynamics of the black market, and there are at least 13 vehicles that stand out as being targets in South Africa, MotorHappy reports.
Vehicles targeted by hijackers in South Africa- Ford Ranger
- Hyundai i20
- Nissan Almera
- Nissan NP200
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Corolla Cross
- Toyota Etios
- Toyota Fortuner
- Toyota Hilux
- Toyota Prado
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- Toyota Rav4
- Volkswagen Polo
Among these are discontinued models such as the Toyota Etios as well as the Nissan Almera sedan and NP200 bakkie. Demand for these vehicles remains strong in South Africa and other parts of the continent.
