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Yeah, South Africans love their VW's, especially since the mid 80's after they refreshed their manufacturing facilities in the Eastern Cape. I don't know if it's still the case, but in general they love their Diesels too. I think the Mk4 Jetta TDI got an awesome reputation for its fuel economy and VW did a great job with their advertising campaign selling it as a "sexier that they ever expected it" car.
As for Audi's they were very popular as well, especially the A4. But in that class there's always been fierce rivalry between Merc and BMW dating back to the pre-sanctions era. BMW were normally the aggressors with their competitive advertising (BMW Beat the Bends advertising campaign springs to mind) and on 1 occasion targeted Audi. In the early 2000's Audi's sales really picked up so maybe they are more popular now.
South Africans also love their Toyota's. Firstly because they are tried and tested tough as nails, and secondly because they manufacture them. As well as Corolla's you probably noticed a lot of Hilux twin-cab pickups/utes? Twincabs are very popular and practical in Africa and the market there is huge. Nissan were Toyota's main competitor but I don't know if it's still that way.
Did you ever get the Fiat Uno in Australia? In the 90's the Uno was one of the most popular vehicles in SA, but thanks to their build quality I don't think there are many left today.
Where abouts did you go on your holiday as a matter of interest?
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