Leslie Massey
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right car in Australia. The type of car, price, and specific features are all important aspects to keep in mind. The Australian car market offers a range of options, including SUVs, sedans, hatchbacks, utes, coupes, people movers, and electric or hybrid vehicles. Your decision may depend on factors such as the number of passengers you need to transport, off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, and your budget. With new car prices on the rise, value for money is also a key consideration. Online tools and quizzes can help you discover the perfect car for your needs and lifestyle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Car type | SUV, Sedan, Hatchback, Ute, Coupe, Convertible, Wagon, People mover, Electric car, Hybrid car |
| Number of passengers | 2-seater, 4-seater, 7-seater |
| Purpose | Leisure, family, work, off-road |
| Features | Safety, practicality, versatility, fuel economy, towing capacity, acceleration, infotainment, interior space, boot space |
| Price | $<35,000, >$35,000 |
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What You'll Learn
Utes vs sedans
Utes and sedans are two of the most popular types of vehicles in Australia. Utes, short for "utility vehicles", are typically two-door vehicles with an open cargo area at the rear. They are often based on a passenger car chassis and have a tonneau or cargo tray integrated with the passenger body. Sedans, on the other hand, are traditional passenger cars with four doors and a closed boot or trunk.
One of the main advantages of utes is their practicality and versatility. With an open cargo area, utes can accommodate a wide range of items, from surfboards to tools, and even pigs! This makes them particularly popular in rural areas and with people who have active lifestyles or need to haul gear for the weekend. Utes are also known for their rugged looks and have become a cultural icon in Australia, with events like ute musters celebrating these vehicles. Additionally, utes tend to hold their value better than sedans, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
However, one of the main drawbacks of utes is their safety profile. Due to their height, weight, and design, utes can be more dangerous in collisions, particularly with vulnerable road users such as pedestrians. Their height can also impede visibility for the driver and other road users, increasing the risk of accidents. The increased size and weight of utes can also make them more challenging to handle, especially when unloaded or in wet weather conditions.
Sedans, on the other hand, offer a more traditional car experience. They typically have better visibility due to their lower stance and are generally easier to drive and manoeuvre. Sedans are also more likely to have advanced safety features and technologies, making them safer in the event of a collision. Additionally, sedans often provide more comfortable rides, with better suspension systems and less cabin noise. The presence of a closed boot or trunk also means better security for items stored in the vehicle.
When deciding between a ute and a sedan, it's essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you require the extra cargo space and versatility of a ute, it may be the better option. However, if safety, comfort, and ease of driving are higher priorities, a sedan might be more suitable. Additionally, sedans can be more practical for families or when transporting multiple passengers, as utes typically have limited rear seating options.
In conclusion, both utes and sedans have their unique advantages and drawbacks. Utes offer practicality, versatility, and a distinct cultural appeal, while sedans provide improved safety, comfort, and driving dynamics. The right choice depends on your individual requirements, budget, and personal preferences.
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Hatchbacks
When it comes to choosing the right car for you, there are many factors to consider, including your budget, the number of passengers you'll need to transport, and the type of car body that suits your needs and lifestyle. If you're considering a hatchback, here are some options to explore:
Small Hatchbacks
Small hatchbacks, such as the Mazda2, offer a compact and agile option for navigating city streets and tight parking spaces. They are generally more affordable and fuel-efficient, making them a popular choice for urban dwellers or those on a tighter budget.
Medium Hatchbacks
If you require more interior space and a touch more versatility, medium hatchbacks like the Toyota Corolla provide a happy medium between small and large hatchbacks. They offer a balance of practicality and manoeuvrability, making them suitable for small families or those who need a bit more room without compromising on driving dynamics.
Luxury Hatchbacks
For those seeking a premium experience, luxury hatchbacks from brands like BMW offer refined driving experiences and high-end features. While they come with a higher price tag, they often include advanced technology, enhanced comfort, and superior performance. However, as some reviews indicate, the quality of certain models may not always live up to expectations, so thorough research is essential.
Electric Hatchbacks
With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, you might consider an electric hatchback like the BYD Seagull. This budget-focused, five-door hatchback is expected to enter the UK market and may become available in Australia. Electric hatchbacks offer a sustainable and cost-effective option, though considerations such as charging infrastructure and battery performance should be factored into your decision.
When deciding on a hatchback, it's essential to weigh factors such as size, practicality, fuel efficiency, and your specific needs. Reviews and ratings from experts and consumers can provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of different models, ensuring you make an informed choice that suits your Australian driving experience.
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SUVs
If you're looking for a small SUV, there are several affordable options available. The Chery Tiggo 4 is currently the cheapest new SUV in Australia, starting at $23,990. The Suzuki Ignis and Hyundai Venue are also good choices, with prices starting at $24,490 and $25,990, respectively. The Hyundai Venue is highly rated and was named the best value small and compact SUV for 2024 by RACV. The Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid is another popular choice, with prices starting at $36,107.
For those seeking a hybrid SUV, the Toyota Yaris Cross and Hyundai Inster are standouts in the compact SUV segment. The GWM Haval Jolion, starting at $24,990, is another affordable option and is currently the cheapest new small hybrid-powered SUV on the market. The Honda HR-V Hybrid, Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, and Hyundai Kona Hybrid are also excellent choices, with prices ranging from $39,900 to $41,017.
In the electric SUV category, the Chery Omoda E5 and MG S5 are among the cheapest options, with prices starting at $40,527 and $40,000, respectively. The Jeep Avenger, Honda HR-V, and Geely EX5 are also worth considering, offering excellent value in the small to medium SUV range.
For those seeking a more luxurious SUV experience, Lexus has introduced the RX plug-in hybrid, which promises a refined driving experience. Mahindra, an Indian automotive brand, is also set to enter the Australian market in 2027 with its value-priced urban SUVs, offering electrification options.
When choosing an SUV, it's important to consider your budget, the size of the vehicle, the number of passengers you need to accommodate, and your specific needs, such as off-road capabilities. With the growing popularity of SUVs in Australia, there is a wide range of options available to suit different preferences and requirements.
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Electric cars
The top-selling EV brands in Australia in 2024 were Tesla, BYD and MG. BYD is currently the fastest-growing "new energy vehicle" company in the world and its BYD Dolphin hatchback is the cheapest EV on the market in Australia, at $32,138.45. GWM is another brand offering stylish and competitively priced EVs, while MG has a range of affordable options including the popular MG ZS SUV.
If you're looking for something more luxurious, Tesla's Model 3 sedan is one of the most acclaimed EVs on the market, though it starts at around $60,000. For an electric SUV, consider the Kia EV9, a 7-seat luxury option with cutting-edge technology. The Kia EV6 is another powerful option, offering superb acceleration and braking performance, while the more compact EV3 is perfect for urban environments.
When choosing an electric car, it's important to consider factors such as battery power, range, and charging options. The range of your EV will depend on factors like battery size, driving behaviour, and ambient temperature. You can recharge your electric car at home or at public charging stations, though charging times and speeds vary depending on the level of the charger.
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People movers
The Kia Carnival is Australia's most popular people mover and the best-selling in its segment. It has a spacious eight-seat layout, a long list of practical features, and a refined design, making it one of the most well-rounded people movers on the market. The Carnival has recently been updated for 2024, now featuring dual digital 12.3-inch screens, revised styling, and updated tech and safety systems. It measures 1775mm (height) by 1995mm (width) by 5155mm (length). The Kia Carnival is also one of the most refined people movers to drive in its segment, thanks to its improved ride and handling tune for local conditions.
The Hyundai Staria is another option, a van-based people mover that can seat eight passengers. It has futuristic styling and measures 1990mm (height) by 1970mm (width) by 5253mm (length). The Staria offers plenty of space, with a large boot and eight seats. However, it lacks anchor points in the third row, featuring only two ISOFIX points and three top tether points in the second row.
For those seeking a luxurious people mover, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class is a top choice. Positioned as the most expensive people-mover in Australia, it offers a fully loaded interior with features such as ventilated front seats, Nappa leather trim, and a powerful sound system. The V-Class is designed to move people in comfort and luxury. A less expensive option from Mercedes-Benz is the eVito Tourer, which offers a family-friendly eight-seat layout and a more affordable entry point into the world of silent family motoring. While it lacks some of the luxurious touches of the EQV, it remains a versatile and reasonably efficient electric people mover.
The LDV MIFA and its battery-electric twin, the Mifa 9, are also impressive people movers. The Mifa 9 features a seven-seat format and comes packed with entertainment and safety equipment, even in the base model. The higher-end Execute & Lux variants offer premium touches like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and even seat massagers. The standard MIFA features a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine producing 160kW and 360Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Other people movers to consider include the Honda Odyssey, which has been in the Australian market for many years and has been reimagined with varying seat configurations, heights, lengths, and technologies. The Nissan Elgrand is a luxurious and spacious MPV, perfect for families seeking a stylish ride with ample room for passengers and cargo. The Volkswagen Multivan offers a highly configurable seating arrangement, sliding doors, multiple cup holders, and the ability to remove seats for additional cargo space. Finally, the Mitsubishi Delica has long been one of Australia's most popular privately imported vehicles, known for its rugged 4x4 looks and capabilities.
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Frequently asked questions
The most popular cars in Australia include the Mazda CX-5, SUVs, sedans, utes, hatchbacks, coupes, and electric cars.
SUVs are a great choice for families as they offer ample room for passengers and their gear. People movers like the Kia Carnival, Hyundai iLoad, and Honda Odyssey are also good options for larger families.
Small hatchbacks, such as the Mazda2, are generally more affordable than other car types. The Toyota 86 is one of the few 'affordable' coupes available in Australia.
Buying a new or used car in Australia depends on your budget and preferences. New cars offer the latest features and technology but come at a higher cost. Used cars can be more affordable, but may have higher maintenance costs and may not have the latest features.
