Explore Australia's Car Market: Available Models And Brands

what cars are available in australia

Australia has a diverse car market, with various models and brands available to suit different needs and preferences. Australians have shown a strong preference for SUVs, with the Medium SUV being the most popular category. However, there is also a wide range of traditional four-door sedans, hatchbacks, utes, vans, wagons, and convertible cars available. In addition, the EV market is gaining momentum in Australia, with more buyers showing interest in electric vehicles. Established brands like Volkswagen, Volvo, and Ford are introducing new electric models, while new brands like Zeekr are also entering the market with electric small SUVs and people movers. With the increasing options available, Australians have a wide range of cars to choose from, catering to different budgets, family sizes, and performance preferences.

Characteristics Values
Car Types SUV, Hatchback, Sedan, Ute, Van, Convertible, Wagon
SUV Types Medium SUV, Small SUV, Large SUV, Luxury SUV, Electric SUV, Hybrid SUV
Hatchback Models Hyundai i30, Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3
Ute Models Toyota Hilux
Sedan Models Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Convertible Models Mazda MX-5, Porsche 911
Wagon Models Skoda, Mazda, BMW, Porsche
Electric Car Models BYD Seagull, Zeekr X, Zeekr 009, Cupra Formentor SUV
Hybrid Car Models Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid
Popular Brands Toyota, Volkswagen, Kia, Ford, Hyundai, Mazda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Renault, Audi, Holden
Price Range $11,690 to $63,500

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Electric cars

There is a range of EVs available in Australia, from small city cars to large SUVs. For example, the BYD Dolphin, released in June 2023, is Australia's most affordable EV, with a starting price of $38,890 before on-road costs. The Dolphin has three variants: the Dynamic with a 45kWh battery, the Premium with a 60kWh battery, and a Sport edition with the same extended-range battery. BYD also offers the Seal electric sedan, which starts at just under $50,000 and includes a panoramic sunroof and a range of safety and driving assistance features.

For those seeking a premium or ultra-premium large electric SUV, BMW offers the iX, available in four trims: xDrive40, xDrive40 Sport, xDrive50 Sport, and M60. The iX1 is equipped with fifth-generation eDrive technology and offers dynamic performance and high range. BMW also offers a smaller, more affordable option, the iX3, which provides a respectable driving range and battery capacity.

Genesis, Hyundai's luxury division, offers the GV70, a medium SUV released in 2022. The GV70 is available in one dual-motor specification and offers performance, luxury, and 350kW capable charging, although this comes at a higher price point. Genesis also offers the G80, an electric sedan designed for long-distance, luxury touring, which features a larger capacity battery and increased driving range.

In addition to these models, there are several upcoming electric car releases in Australia, including the next-gen Alfa Romeo Stelvio, initially expected in 2025 but now pushed back, and the Aston Martin EV, expected before 2030. Bentley also plans to release one electric vehicle model per year from 2025 onwards.

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Hatchbacks

If you're in the market for a hatchback in Australia, there are several options to consider. Hatchbacks are perfect for navigating city streets and parking in tight spaces, and they're also fuel-efficient and economical to run. Here are some of the top choices available in Australia:

Hyundai i30

The Hyundai i30 is a popular choice among hatchback buyers in Australia. It offers a balance of features, fuel efficiency, and affordability. While providing a comfortable and well-equipped interior, the i30 is also known for its zippy performance and manoeuvrability, making it ideal for urban driving.

Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla is another favourite among Australian drivers looking for a hatchback. Toyota is known for its reliability, and the Corolla delivers a combination of practicality and efficiency. With a spacious interior and a range of features, the Corolla is a versatile option for those seeking a reliable hatchback.

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 is a stylish and sporty hatchback that has consistently been a top seller in Australia. It offers a dynamic driving experience, impressive fuel efficiency, and a range of advanced features. The Mazda 3 also stands out for its sleek design and premium interior, providing a blend of performance and comfort.

Toyota GR Yaris

The Toyota GR Yaris is a performance-focused hatchback that has gained recognition in Australia. It offers a more powerful driving experience while still retaining the practicality of a hatchback. With its sporty handling and enhanced engine performance, the GR Yaris is a great choice for those seeking a fun and engaging drive.

Suzuki Vitara

The Suzuki Vitara is a unique offering in the hatchback segment, providing an alternative for those who prefer analogue dials and physical buttons over touchscreens and digital displays. The Vitara offers a more traditional driving experience while still providing modern safety and convenience features.

BYD Seagull EV

The BYD Seagull EV is a budget-focused, five-door hatchback that has been confirmed for right-hand drive production. While its availability in Australia is not yet confirmed, it has opened up the possibility for its introduction to the market. The Seagull EV offers an electric, eco-friendly option for those seeking a city-sized hatchback.

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SUVs

Australians buy more SUVs than any other vehicle, with over 700,000 sold in 2024. There are four main types of SUVs in Australia: small and light, compact, medium, and large. Small and light SUVs are typically well-suited to city driving, with better fuel efficiency and increased interior comfort compared to a regular car. Compact SUVs are a fast-growing category, with intense competition driving down prices. Medium SUVs are Australia's biggest-selling new vehicle segment, with a range of options including family, electric, and performance models. Large SUVs and those with seven or more seats are popular family and recreational vehicles, offering greater towing and cargo capacities.

There are a variety of affordable SUV options in Australia, with prices starting from under $30,000. The GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid is available from $31,990 driveaway, while the MG ZS Hybrid starts at $32,990. The Chery Tiggo 4 and Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid are also affordable options, with prices starting from around $36,000. For those looking for a more premium option, midsize SUVs starting above $60,000 are generally considered luxury or premium in Australia. Options in this price range include the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

Electric SUVs are becoming increasingly popular in Australia, with more manufacturers releasing electrified SUVs than any other body style. The Kia EV6 is an electric crossover SUV that offers superb acceleration and outstanding braking performance. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 is another electric large SUV option, although it comes at a higher price point as the most expensive Hyundai ever sold in Australia. The VW Touareg is a quiet and refined large electric SUV, with a powerful V6 turbo-diesel engine. The Kia EV9 is also one of the most impressive battery-electric large SUVs on the market, but it comes at a luxury car price starting at $97,000.

For those looking for a midsize SUV, the Volkswagen Tiguan is a popular option known for its spacious interior and compact size. The Toyota RAV4 is another great choice, now only available with a hybrid drivetrain in Australia due to its popularity. The Lexus NX is currently the most popular midsize SUV choice in Australia, offering a tough exterior and a logical interior layout. The Mazda CX-5 is a mid-size SUV with a luxurious cabin, although it does not yet have a hybrid drivetrain.

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Sedans

Cheap Sedans

If you're looking for a bargain, there are still some great deals to be found on sedans in Australia. MG has built a reputation for offering budget-friendly commuter vehicles, and the MG5 fits the bill with a starting price of $25,990. The Cerato sedan is another cheap option, with a sub-$30k price tag. However, this long-lived model is set to be replaced by the all-new K4 in 2025.

Mid-Range Sedans

For a slightly more premium experience, you could consider the Mazda6, which offers impressive quality and a luxurious driving experience, particularly in the Atenza model. While sales have been slowing, you can still find this car in dealerships, with prices starting from $36,290. The Mazda3 is another option in this category, with the base Pure sedan priced at $31,190.

Luxury Sedans

For those seeking a truly luxurious experience, Audi offers a range of luxury sedans, including the S5 Sedan and the S5 Avant, which start at $114,900 and $117,900, respectively. The Porsche Taycan, starting at $174,500, is another option in this category, offering enormous acceleration, a luxurious cabin, and high-quality finishes.

With various options available across different price ranges, there is a sedan to suit different preferences and budgets in Australia.

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Utes

The term 'ute' is used in Australia to refer to any vehicle with a cargo tray at the rear, which would be called a pickup truck in other countries. Australian-produced utes are traditionally rear-wheel drive with an integrated cargo tray and passenger body. In the 21st century, the term has become more broadly used, and utes are now often based on a passenger car chassis with a tray at the rear.

Ford Australia was the first company to produce an Australian Coupe ute, which was released in 1934. This was in response to a letter from the wife of a farmer who requested "a vehicle to go to church in on a Sunday and which can carry our pigs to market on Mondays". The Holden Ute is another classic Australian icon, offering sedan-like comfort with a large cargo bed. Sadly, the Holden Ute is no longer in production.

Other popular utes in Australia include the Ranger Ute, known for its utility and nimble feel, and the Toyota Hilux, which is set to become Australia's best-selling new vehicle in 2022. The Ford Falcon ute was produced from 1961 to 2016, initially using a coupe ute style before switching to a separate cargo bed in 1999.

There are also some unique and futuristic ute designs that have gained attention, such as the Tesla Cybertruck, which offers an electric powertrain and massive cargo space. The Subaru Baja is another interesting option, combining the features of a small truck with an SUV, providing all-wheel-drive capability and a versatile driving experience.

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Frequently asked questions

Australians have been known to favour SUVs, hatchbacks, and utes. Some of the most popular models include the Toyota Hilux, the Toyota Corolla, the Mazda 3, the Mazda MX-5, the Porsche 911, the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Kia Sportage, the Hyundai i30, and the Ford Ranger.

In addition to SUVs, hatchbacks, and utes, Australians can also choose from sedans, convertibles, wagons, and electric vehicles (EVs).

Some electric vehicles available in Australia include the Zeekr X and Zeekr 009, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, the Volvo EX90, the Cupra Formentor, and the Fiat 600e.

Yes, there are many used cars available in Australia. Some popular options include the Toyota Tarago, the Ford Ranger, the Kia Sportage, the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Hyundai i30, and the Mazda CX-5.

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