Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Re-enters South Africa With Vivo Xpress City Van Launch

On February 5, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles South Africa confirmed its return to the local market with the introduction of the Vivo Xpress, marking a strategic step to strengthen its footprint in the light commercial vehicle space. The new model is scheduled to go on sale from February 2026, with prices starting at ZAR 279,990, positioning it competitively for small businesses and fleet operators.

Market positioning and local manufacturing focus

The Vivo Xpress will compete in the A0 City Van segment, where it stands out as the only domestically manufactured offering. Local production is expected to support supply stability while aligning the vehicle closely with regional operating requirements, particularly for urban delivery, trades, and service-oriented businesses.
By re-entering the South African market with a locally built model, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles aims to address rising demand for compact, cost-efficient commercial vans tailored for city use.

Powertrain and efficiency

The Vivo Xpress is equipped with a 1.4-litre petrol engine producing 63 kW of power. The powertrain has been tuned to balance performance with fuel efficiency, making it suitable for frequent stop-start driving conditions typically seen in urban logistics and last-mile delivery operations.

Payload capacity and segment competitiveness

One of the key strengths of the Vivo Xpress is its payload capacity of 490 kg, which is among the highest in the A0 City Van segment. This capability enhances its appeal for operators seeking maximum load efficiency without moving to larger, more expensive commercial vehicles.
With its combination of local manufacturing, practical payload capability, and accessible pricing, the Vivo Xpress is positioned to play a significant role in Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles South Africa’s renewed market strategy while offering customers a purpose-built solution for city-focused commercial use.