Johannesburg: India’s most profitable carmaker Tata Motors has re-entered the South African passenger vehicle market after six years, launching its flagship SUVs Harrier, Curvv, Punch and its flagship hatchback Tiago at a launch event in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Partnering with Motus Holdings, the carmaker will eventually expand its base there to 60 outlets and after-sales service centres by 2026. The company will be competing in the affordable PV segment against Chinese carmakers Chery Group, Beijing Automakers and GWM.
The company still maintains a presence in the commercial vehicle segment there, with this launch aimed at boosting Tata Motors’ presence in the market.
Once considered a fringe player, Tata Motors has scripted a remarkable comeback in the Indian market, leapfrogging Maruti as India’s top carmaker, on the back of its innovative design and offerings that resonated with customers.
The brand is expecting to repeat this performance in the South African market, which is dominated by Toyota, Suzuki and Volkswagen, with almost half of the market share amongst them. The passenger vehicle market there has shown a strong growth this year, with sales volumes increasing 21.7% in June 2025 from the same month last year.
At the launch event, Shailesh Chandra, MD of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd, said,” We are excited to bring our new-generation of vehicles—engineered with cutting-edge technology, uncompromising safety, and modern design—to a market that values safety, quality and innovation. We are confident in delivering a superior ownership experience that resonates with South African consumers and contributes meaningfully to the local economy.”
