Hello Mabs

I’m a recent graduate from Delft, Cape Town, starting an internship in Johannesburg in January. I need a car to get to work, and my parents are helping me buy a new Kia Picanto with a great deal—no instalments until the end of February. However, my friends suggest waiting to buy the car in January so it will be registered as a 2025 model, which could have better resale value, and to avoid being targeted in Joburg with Cape Town plates. If I wait, I’ll lose the deal and start paying instalments immediately in January.

What should I do?

Mabs Answers
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, but it seems like you’ve planned well. While a 2025 model may have slightly better resale value, this becomes less important over time as condition and mileage matter more. You can negotiate with the dealership to delay the car’s registration until January to register it as a 2025 model. Ensure this agreement is in writing. If proof of your Johannesburg address is ready, you can request a GP plate immediately, though interprovincial registrations may take longer, especially over the festive season. Most dealerships require proof of insurance before releasing the car, so if this might delay your plans, consider registering the car in Cape Town and re-registering it in Gauteng later.

Good luck with your purchase!