Why Are Some Car Models More Popular in Certain Countries?

BY MUFARO MHARIWA
Apr 2
6 min read

Have you ever seen the same car model over and over again while driving, wondering why it's so popular? If you want to be specific, have you ever wondered why the VW Polo is everywhere in South Africa? Or why Ford trucks dominate American roads? The cars we see the most aren’t just random bestsellers, but they are a reflection of local culture, infrastructure, and economic realities.

Let’s explore why certain cars become the undisputed favourites in their regions and what that says about the people who drive them.

Volkswagen Polo – South Africa’s Urban Favourite

If you’ve spent any time on South African roads, you’ve probably noticed the crazy number of Volkswagen Polos. It's a staple of urban mobility and a status symbol in its own right. Here are 4 solid reasons why this hatchback dominates the market.

1. Affordability & Local Production

One of the biggest reasons for the Polo’s popularity is that it’s built locally. Volkswagen manufactures the Polo at its plant in Kariega, which means reduced import costs and better pricing for South African buyers. Local production also creates jobs, further strengthening the brand’s connection to the country.

2. Practicality & Fuel Efficiency

The Polo strikes the perfect balance between affordability and functionality. Its compact size makes it ideal for city driving, while its fuel-efficient engines help South Africans combat high petrol prices. At the same time, it’s powerful enough for highway driving, making it a versatile choice for daily commutes and long trips.

3. Looks & Versatility

One of the Polo’s biggest selling points is its design. It offers something for everyone; whether you’re a student, a professional, or a family driver. The entry-level models have a clean, cute aesthetic, making them a great choice for first-time buyers, looking for something stylish yet practical. On the other end of the spectrum, the sportier GTI trim comes with aggressive styling, bold accents, and a punchy turbocharged engine, perfect for those who want a performance-focused daily driver.

Despite its popularity, the Polo remains a statement piece. It has a timeless design that blends sleek lines with a premium feel, ensuring that it never looks out of place, whether parked outside an office or cruising through city streets. It’s also spacious enough to accommodate most South African families, adding to its widespread appeal.

4. Resale Value & Popularity

Because the Polo is so widely used, there’s always demand for it in the second-hand market. This strong resale value makes it an attractive purchase, as owners know they can sell it later without taking a huge financial loss. Fleet buyers, ride-hailing drivers, and first-time car owners all favour the Polo, keeping demand high and cementing its place as South Africa’s best-selling passenger car.

Ford Trucks – America’s Best-Selling Workhorse

In the United States, pickup trucks are more than just vehicles; they’re a way of life. And leading the charge is the Ford F-Series, which has held the title of America’s best-selling vehicle for over four decades. But what makes these trucks so beloved across the country?

1. A Cultural Icon

The Ford F-Series, particularly the F-150, is deeply woven into American culture. Whether tearing through Texas ranches, towing boats along Florida’s coast, or dominating city streets It represents strength, independence, and hard work; values that resonate with many Americans. Whether it’s farmers, construction workers, or off-road enthusiasts, the F-Series is seen as the ultimate companion for both work and play. It’s not just a utility vehicle; it’s a status symbol, proudly driven by those who embrace the rugged American lifestyle.

2. Utility & Versatility

One of the key reasons behind the F-Series’ dominance is its versatility. While it’s widely used in industries like construction, agriculture, and logistics, it’s also become a popular choice for everyday drivers. The combination of a powerful engine, high towing capacity, and a spacious cargo bed makes it perfect for hauling tools, equipment, and even recreational gear like boats and trailers. Recent models have also introduced luxury-level interiors, advanced technology, and off-road capabilities, broadening their appeal to suburban families and adventure seekers alike.

3. Size & Comfort

American roads are built for big vehicles, and the F-Series takes full advantage of that. With wide highways, sprawling suburbs, and long-distance travel being common, owning a large, comfortable truck makes sense. Unlike compact city cars, a Ford truck provides ample cabin space, plush seating, and a commanding driving position, making long drives more enjoyable.

4. Resale Value & Market Trust

With Ford’s reputation for durability and reliability, the F-Series holds its value exceptionally well. Many buyers see it as a long-term investment, knowing they can resell or trade it in for a good price. Fleet operators, small business owners, and everyday truck enthusiasts keep demand high, ensuring that Ford trucks remain a staple on American roads.

Kei Cars – Japan’s Small but Mighty Choice

In contrast to many countries where one brand might dominate the market, Japan’s car scene is far more diverse. When it comes to Kei cars, the focus isn’t on a specific brand; it's about the car type itself. For those who don’t know, a kei car is a very small, fuel-efficient Japanese vehicle designed for urban driving with strict size and engine limits.

These compact, city-friendly vehicles are built to meet Japan’s unique needs, and they come from a variety of manufacturers. It's not about which brand is the best, but rather about finding the right balance of efficiency, affordability, and practicality for Japan's dense urban spaces.

Kei cars are often crafted by brands like Suzuki, Daihatsu, Honda, and Mazda, with some models only available in Japan and rarely seen outside of the country. The Suzuki Alto, Daihatsu Mira, and Honda Acty are just a few examples of Kei cars that cater specifically to Japanese consumers. These cars are so deeply ingrained in Japanese culture that you won’t often see them outside the country, adding to their unique charm and appeal.

1. Compact & City-Friendly

Japan’s infrastructure is built around efficiency. With densely packed cities and extremely limited parking, smaller vehicles make far more sense than large sedans or SUVs. Kei cars, which must adhere to strict size regulations (no longer than 3.4 metres and no wider than 1.48 metres), fit perfectly into Japan’s urban landscape. Their nimble handling makes navigating tight alleyways, crowded shopping districts, and multi-storey car parks a breeze.

2. Cost-Effective & Fuel-Efficient

Kei cars aren’t just small; they’re economical (and comical too). These vehicles are equipped with 660cc engines, which not only keep fuel consumption low but also result in reduced taxes and insurance fees. In a country where car ownership can be expensive, Kei cars provide an affordable alternative for city dwellers. Additionally, many modern Kei cars now offer hybrid and electric options, further enhancing their appeal in an environmentally conscious market.

3. Government Incentives & Regulations

Japan actively encourages Kei car ownership through tax breaks and lower registration fees. Unlike regular cars, Kei cars have lower road taxes and insurance costs, making them especially attractive for young professionals, retirees, and small business owners who need a practical and affordable vehicle. Given the government’s push for sustainability and space efficiency, the continued popularity of Kei cars seems all but guaranteed.

4. Surprisingly Spacious & Feature-Packed

Despite their small footprint, Kei cars are cleverly designed to maximise interior space. Models like the Honda N-Box, Suzuki Alto, and Daihatsu Tanto feature tall, boxy designs, providing ample headroom and flexible seating configurations. Many Kei cars even come equipped with advanced tech, including touchscreen infotainment systems, automatic braking, and hybrid powertrains, proving that size does not mean compromise.

More Than Just a Car: A Reflection of Culture

All these cars aren’t just popular because of their specs or affordability; they are an embodiment of how people in different regions live, work, and navigate their day-to-day lives. Whether it’s the versatile and stylish VW Polo in South Africa, the hard-working Ford trucks in the USA, or the space-efficient Kei cars in Japan, these models reflect not only the practical needs of their drivers but also a deeper connection to cultural values.

As the automotive industry shifts towards more sustainable and tech-forward options, these regional preferences might evolve. However, one thing remains clear: the cars we choose are more than just machines; they reflect our identity; they tell the story of who we are, where we live, and how we navigate the world.