2023 Top Ten Best Selling Cars In Australia (Experts Review)
2023 Best-Selling Cars In Australia
The automotive industry in Australia is distinguished by a thriving and competitive market that provides a large selection of automobiles to accommodate various demands and tastes. In this busy environment, some make have repeatedly stood out as the best-selling vehicles in the nation. Performance, dependability, features, and general appeal are just a few elements that have contributed to these cars’ success. The top ten best-selling cars in Australia in 2023 span a variety of vehicle types and suit various needs and lifestyles. These models, which range from durable and adaptable pickup trucks to fuel-efficient small automobiles, have attracted the interest and trust of Australian drivers.
Reputable companies like Toyota, Ford, and Mazda are among the front-runners since they have repeatedly shown that they can satisfy the needs of the Australian market. These automakers have made a name for themselves as reliable brands by providing cars that stand out in various categories, including dependability, usefulness, innovation, and driving pleasure. We will examine the characteristics and attributes that have catapulted these models to the top of the market in our examination of the top ten best-selling cars in Australia in 2023. This overview will give you information on the vehicles that Australian drivers have fallen in love with and are keeping in their garages, whether you’re looking for a dependable workhorse, a practical commuter, or a gorgeous family car.
10. Hyundai Tucson
- MSRP: ∼ $26,900
- Units Sold: ∼ 6,171
- Manufacturer: Hyundai
- Layout: FWD/AWD
- Body Style: 4-door SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Engine: 2.5-liter four-cylinder/turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 187 hp
- Torque: 178 lb-ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.3 Gal.
- Pros: A good balance between ride and handling, futuristic design, and nearly luxurious interiors of premium models.
- Cons: Unsteady acceleration, and Push-button shifting requires some adjustment.
With its innovative appearance, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson stands out amid its more sober-looking compact SUV competitors. That doesn’t imply that Tucson forgoes affordability or usefulness. Both are boasted. With the Tucson, Hyundai took a broad strategy to make it appealing to a wide audience by offering a number of trims and engines, including a hybrid and plug-in hybrid. In comparison to the base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models have a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder that is assisted by an electric motor. Tucson’s base versions are well-equipped, while its top trims cross the boundary from mainstream to premium, giving it an advantage over competitors.
After a significant redesign for the 2022 model year, Tucson receives just modest packaging modifications for the 2023 model year. The Tucson should get up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The Premium package’s components have been included as standard features to lower trim levels in place of the Premium package, which was formerly exclusive to the SEL model. The dashboard’s base 8.8-inch touchscreen has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto built-in; a larger 10.3-inch screen with built-in navigation and extras like SiriusXM satellite radio and a better Bose sound system are also available. Another high-tech option is Hyundai’s smartphone app for its digital key, which provides remote start functionality in addition to lock and unlock features. Adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and a speed limit assist feature are now standard on all Tucson models. On Tucson’s exterior colour scheme, Serenity White Pearl takes the place of Quartz White.
9. Hyundai i30
- MSRP: ∼ $23,720
- Units Sold: ∼ 5,097
- Manufacturer: Hyundai
- Layout: FWD/AWD
- Body Style: 5-door hatchback
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 160 hp
- Torque: 140 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 Gal.
- Pros: The ride quality on local streets is impeccable, The base model has tyre pressure monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
- Cons: Some of the safety measures seen in higher tiers are absent.
The i30 has undergone updates since it first debuted, much like a recipe that has been altered. The i30 has a bit more visual impact up front thanks to a big slotted grille, and all except entry-level models come standard with LED lights, lending the car a more sophisticated appearance. Although the appearance is virtually the same at the back, all but the most affordable variants now come standard with LED lights. A new 10.3-inch infotainment system, a part-digital instrument display, and optional, more upscale grey decor are all part of the i30’s updated cabin. Otherwise, the dashboard and interior layout have remained essentially unchanged since this model of automobile debuted in 2017. The i30’s excellent seat and steering wheel adjustments make it easy to find a comfortable driving position, and there is also plenty of headroom available. Even the tallest passengers won’t have trouble getting in the rear, and there should be plenty of room for them to spread out comfortably.
The well-known 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers the 2023 Hyundai i30. The i30 is a punchy beast, putting out 140 pounds. ft. of torque and 160 horsepower. The engine has a sense of urgency about it that other performance engines seem to miss, and it feels like it is always prepared to pounce. There is very little latency between ratios, the changes are clean, and the gearbox is simple to use. There are options for both petrol and diesel engines, some of which have 48V mild hybrid technology and Intelligent Manual Transmissions (iMT) for even greater fuel efficiency. The brand-new i30 Waggon features the most recent safety technology in addition to adventure and performance. Unwind knowing your travels will be secure and comfortable. The i30 Fastback has always been a lovely beauty to behold with its sloping profile and gently sloped roofline. The i30 Fastback looks as good as it drives thanks to its reduced body and strong turbo engines.
8. MG ZS
- MSRP: ∼ $43,990
- Units Sold: 7,321
- Manufacturer: SAIC Motor
- Layout: FWD
- Body Style: 4-door subcompact crossover SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 1.5L INLINE 4 engine
- Horsepower: 112 hp
- Torque: 110 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.6 Gal.
- Pros: The rear seat is roomy, Comfortable to ride, and Can handle difficult terrains.
- Cons: The infotainment system is exceedingly sluggish and underpowered.
The MG ZS is a small family SUV that is highly recommended if you’re searching for something practical, inexpensive, and well-equipped. The standard fabric seats may be adjusted to a comfortable level, and the controls you’ll need the most are conveniently located and organised in a logical, uncluttered way. A 10.1-inch colour touchscreen is standard on both the Excite and Exclusive trims for the infotainment system. You get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the Exclusive also features an inbuilt GPS. The MG’s system is simple to use and responsive to touch input, however, some of the menus can be challenging to navigate back a page. Not as many pleasant details are added to the back seats.
The ZS is available with two petrol engines. Choose the 1.5-litre petrol model if you drive a lot of miles on the highway or the 1.0-litre turbo petrol type if you spend a lot of time in town. Both are reasonably quiet, albeit not very fast and will achieve about 35 mpg in typical driving situations as opposed to the 44.9 mpg and 49.6 mpg stated by MG, respectively. The ZS is simple to drive no matter which engines you choose because of its adjustable steering that offers additional support at low speeds. Inadequate rear visibility makes it difficult to manoeuvre into small parking spaces, although at least rear parking sensors are included as standard. The MG ZS makes a compelling argument for itself as an economical, roomy small family car if this isn’t a deal-breaker for you. If you stay away from the very basic entry-level variants, this SUV is definitely worth your consideration.
7. Mitsubishi Outlander
- MSRP: ∼ $27,895
- Units Sold: ∼ 7,838
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors
- Layout: AWD
- Body Style: 4-door compact crossover SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 148-hp 2.0-liter/168-hp 2.4-liter
- Horsepower: 181 hp
- Torque: 188 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.8 Gal.
- Pros: The best-in-class powertrain warranty, Attractive, Conventional all-wheel drive.
- Cons: Mild-mannered driving techniques, Average fuel efficiency, Miserable powertrains
The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a beautiful appearance and a strong powertrain warranty. Unfortunately, the ageing Mitsubishi subcompact SUV only has two things going for it. Yes, the outside has just been updated, but those merely cosmetic changes did nothing to address the dated interior design and poor cabin materials. Despite the availability of four-cylinder engines, all-wheel drive is the norm. Both the 148 horsepower of the 2.0-litre engine’s base model and the 168 horsepower of the 2.4-litre engine’s optional model are uninspiring in terms of performance and fuel efficiency. The Outlander Sport will safely transport passengers to their destination, but in spite of its fashionable design and the word “sport” in its name, it has a dull driving manner. The fact that the two-row ute is neither the cheapest nor the least upscale seals its fate as a small SUV that belongs at the bottom of your list.
Large expanses of black plastic and an unimaginative dashboard design combine to give the Outlander Sport’s interior a decided bargain-basement feel, despite certain trims’ slight improvements. There are no leather seats available. Some trims include crimson stitching on the seats to give some flair. Although there is not much legroom, the back seat has adequate capacity for two persons to sit comfortably. Although the Outlander Sport’s 60/40 split-folding back seats are straightforward to fold to provide a flat cargo floor, the Mitsubishi can’t hold as much carry-on luggage as many of its rivals can. The Outlander Sport has a centre console that is relatively deep, which is a positive, but it doesn’t have many extra storage options. There are no door pockets for passengers in the back seats, and the spare tyre takes up the entire underfloor storage space in the cargo compartment.
6. Mazda CX-5
- MSRP: ∼ $26,700
- Units Sold: ∼ 7,949
- Manufacturer: Mazda
- Layout: AWD
- Body Style: 4-door compact SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 2.5 DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 187 hp
- Torque: 186 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.3 Gal.
- Pros: The best-in-class powertrain warranty, Attractive, Conventional all-wheel drive.
- Cons: Mild-mannered driving techniques, Average fuel efficiency, Miserable powertrains
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 not only maintains the reputation of the company for responsive handling, but it also offers a nearly opulent experience at competitive costs. Because of this special blend of responsive driving and opulent interior styling, the CX-5 is one of our favourite small SUVs, especially in higher-end models with the optional 256-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Although all models come standard with all-wheel drive and the CX-5’s agile handling, which is pleasurable regardless of the engine you choose, the base engine is a less potent 187-hp four. Both engines come with an all-wheel drive system and a quick six-speed automated gearbox. Hard driving is not necessary for the CX-5 to be fun or for one to realise its excellence. Yes, with its precise driving and smooth bends, it makes for one hell of a Sunday cruise. However, it also has the ability to handle bumpy roads and the quiet ride quality of crossovers that cost twice as much. Two engine options and two fuel economy ratings are available for the CX-5. The standard 2.5-litre engine has mpg ratings for 24 cities and 30 highways. The more powerful turbocharged engine has ratings of 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the interstate.
First-rate materials and a superb layout make it feel extremely posh. The floor-hinged accelerator pedal feels better than the more typical kind that is suspended above the floor, the well-crafted steering wheel is directly in front of the driver and not tilted at a small angle, and all of the front-seat armrests are at the same height for ideal comfort. In this instance, the CX-5 could only fit nine pieces of carry-on luggage between its rear seats during our testing. Sacrifices come in tiny packages. The 10.3-inch infotainment screen that comes with every model may be controlled primarily through the volume control and rotary controller on the central console. Voice commands and buttons on the steering wheel are other ways to use the interface. There are no differences between Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-5 incorporates Mazda Connected Services, which gives users access to remote vehicle controls through a smartphone app and a Wi-Fi hotspot with a monthly fee.
5. Isuzu D-Max
- MSRP: ∼ $67,500
- Units Sold: ∼ 8,048
- Manufacturer: Isuzu Motors
- Layout: RWD
- Body Style: 4-door cab chassis
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 3.0L DIESEL TURBO 4 engine
- Horsepower: 188 hp
- Torque: 331 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 Gal.
- Pros: The D-Max’s best out-of-the-box look to date, Along with the largest 4-cylinder engine in its class.
- Cons: No wireless charging, Jarring rear compared to coil-back choices.
Since its premiere in 2020, the most recent model D-Max hasn’t altered much at all, with the exception of a few small aesthetic adjustments and minor safety system adjustments. However, the 2023 range adds three new model variants, bolder styling, and functional enhancements without changing the tried-and-true recipe for the ute’s popularity. Most of the 2023 lineup is powered by the renowned 3.0-litre turbo-diesel from Isuzu, with the same six-speed auto, thus performance is unaltered. That’s actually a good thing because the 3.0-litre’s indestructible nature is what convinces many customers to buy. The changes for 2023 don’t exactly translate into “more value,” but they are all practical upgrades that any customer would value, especially those getting a free upgrade to the new model.
For base models, a new grille design is finished in a variety of two-tone colour schemes, ranging from black and grey to various shades of grey-on-grey for the LS-U and LS-U+ and the top-tier X-Terrain. Grey inlays for the LED taillights in the back continue the darker design concept. The improved wheels are the change we like to see most visually. Although opinions on wheels vary, the most recent D-Max had some divisive wheel options, and Isuzu updated all of its wheel designs as a result of customer criticism. While we’re talking about wheels, our fave technological upgrade is the addition of tyre pressure monitoring, however, you lose access to the centre driver display when driving on the beach with the pressures low. It’s not a big deal, but it would be helpful to be able to move away from the low-pressure warning screen or let the car know you’ve purposefully decreased pressures. The automatic deactivation of blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert functions while a trailer is hitched is a useful safety system adjustment.
4. Toyota RAV4
- MSRP: ∼ $28,275
- Units Sold: ∼ 8,372
- Manufacturer: Toyota
- Layout: FWD/AWD
- Body Style: 5-door compact crossover SUV
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 2.5-litre four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 203 hp
- Torque: 163 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 Gal.
- Pros: Driver-assists come standard, Rugged good looks, Easygoing driving demeanour.
- Cons: Coarse-sounding four-cylinder, Entry model is too bare-bones.
The RAV4 is a Toyota model that has been a consistent best-seller for many years for good reason; it’s a sensible, efficient SUV. The cargo-friendly interior, low base price, and competent handling of the 2023 RAV4 carry on the legacy. A 2.5-litre four-cylinder and an eight-speed automatic gearbox work together to power the front or all four wheels. Fuel efficiency is good despite a little sluggish acceleration. There are also options for a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid powerplant. When utilised for suburban tasks like routine commuting and trips to the hardware store, the RAV4 performs well. The RAV4’s value in comparison to competitors is boosted by Toyota’s inclusion of a plethora of attractive infotainment systems and driver-assistance technologies as standard equipment.
The RAV4 received the best fuel economy ratings in its class from the EPA. Front-wheel-drive RAV4s can go up to an estimated 35 mpg on the highway. On our 75 mph highway fuel-economy route, the all-wheel-drive Adventure returned 32 mpg for us, 1 mpg less than the EPA’s predicted value for that trim. Toyota’s most recent software interface is better and simpler to use than the previous iteration, and it enables over-the-air upgrades and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 12.3-inch display is now an option in addition to the gauge cluster’s 7.0-inch display, which is now standard. The RAV4 prioritises cubby storage and ergonomics. A useful shelf that spans the dash complements the roomy centre console. The RAV4’s back seats fold practically flat and are easy to store, giving the interior greater space for cargo.
3. Tesla Model 3
- MSRP: ∼ $40,240
- Units Sold: ∼ 8,448
- Manufacturer: Tesla
- Layout: AWD
- Body Style: 4-door Sedan
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: Rear motor: AC permanent magnet synchronous motor
- Horsepower: 271 hp
- Torque: 310 lb. ft
- Pros: Having access to Tesla’s numerous fast-charging stations, Excellent performance, Handling, and range, There is plenty of interior space and comfortable seating.
- Cons: No compatibility with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, Using a touchscreen while driving might be distracting.
The most affordable and well-liked vehicle produced by Tesla is the Model 3. Since the first one left the assembly line in 2017, it has been a major success for the automaker and is clearly the brand’s main product. The Model 3 is ideal for anyone who wants to get around a big city quickly and can be extended to work on longer road trips thanks to Tesla’s extensive nationwide network of fast-charging stations. It has a potential range of more than 300 miles. Despite being a fantastic value, the base rear-wheel-drive model’s EPA-estimated driving range of 272 miles may cause range anxiety in some drivers. We are not exaggerating when we state that the interior of the Tesla Model 3 is unlike that of any other car currently on the market. The enormous touchscreen in the dashboard, which manages almost everything, is surprisingly simple inside. Instead of having an odd appearance, the buttons on the steering wheel should be used to manage features like the steering column’s position and the side view mirrors.
The electric motor’s potent punch enables the Model 3 to accelerate smoothly, almost silently, and quickly from a stop, just like the majority of EVs. Additionally, it travels really swiftly in several cuts. The rear-wheel-drive vehicle reached 60 mph from zero in 5.1 seconds. In under 3.5 seconds—0.5 seconds—the Model 3 Performance can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. The Model 3’s battery is tucked beneath the floor, just like every other Tesla before it, giving it a low centre of gravity. As a result, it can make tight turns and feel stable and grounded when making curves. The steering is precise and appropriately weighted, and there are three unique settings to change the steering effort. Although the ride is firm without being harsh, there is still a lot of road noise inside the cabin as the tyres thwack and thrum over potholes in the pavement. Oddly, navigation, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity are all standard on the Model 3, but neither AM radio nor SiriusXM are included. There are several options for streaming radio online. Additionally, it cannot have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto installed. To make charging station layovers more bearable, the Model 3 includes a plethora of entertainment options on its central display, including Netflix, YouTube, and a range of arcade games.
2. Ford Ranger
- MSRP: ∼ $27,400
- Units Sold: ∼ 12,218
- Manufacturer: Ford
- Layout: RWD
- Body Style: 4-door Pickup
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 270 hp
- Torque: 310 lb. ft
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 Gal.
- Pros: There are many light off-road package options available, A powerful tow boat, A smooth drivetrain
- Cons: Does not have a rugged off-road variant, the Interior feels dated, and there are no powertrain options
The Ranger comes with a 270-hp turbocharged inline-four and 10-speed automated gearbox and is seen as more of a diet F-150 than a mini-truck. Although it has tremendous power, it doesn’t have the fuel efficiency we’d anticipate from a tiny turbo-four. With a maximum towing capability of 7,500 pounds, it makes a huge impact. Even though the Ranger isn’t as modern as some of its rivals, rear-wheel drive is the default and four-wheel drive is an option. A four-door SuperCrew with a five-foot bed or a two-door SuperCab with a six-foot bed can be chosen for the Ranger. A 10-speed automatic gearbox is standard on all Ranger trucks, and it offers seamless and rapid shifts. Models with rear-wheel drive have an 8.4-inch ground clearance while those with four-wheel drive have an 8.9-inch clearance. The Ranger can be specified with a Terrain Management System, which improves the truck’s performance on different types of terrain by altering elements such as gearbox gearing and engine response.
The Ranger, which has rear-wheel drive, can achieve up to 21 city and 26 highway mpg. Estimates for the four-wheel-drive vehicle are as high as 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the interstate, while for the Tremor model, both values fall to 19 mpg. Rangers come in two different cab configurations: crew cab (SuperCrew) and extended cab (SuperCab). While the SuperCab has space for four passengers and two smaller rear half-doors, the SuperCrew is more spacious and has four full-size doors. The Ranger’s interior design and materials are inconsistent, as they are in some other Ford vehicles. Most of the trim is boring and made of cheap plastics, but there are also a few minor pieces that are unexpectedly sophisticated in appearance and feel. However, the SuperCab and SuperCrew cabins are cosy, and the controls are simple to use.
1. Toyota Hilux
- MSRP: ∼ $25,375
- Units Sold: ∼ 15,061
- Manufacturer: Toyota
- Layout: AWD/RWD
- Body Style: 4-door Pickup
- Seating Capacity: 5-passengers
- Engine: 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
- Horsepower: 221 hp
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 Gal.
- Torque: 405 lb. ft
- Pros: Feels well screwed together, Off-road ability, tractable diesel
- Cons: Looks and feels dated inside, Unladen body control over undulations, Shorter service intervals than rivals
While the new Ford Ranger has recently dominated the news, Australia’s favourite ute and most popular car overall continue to be the Toyota HiLux. The business just introduced its 2023 HiLux lineup, but instead of making significant modifications to its workhorse, it has chosen to make minor specification changes and carry on as usual. The driver-assist features that are already standard on many of the 2023 HiLux’s top rivals include blind-spot monitoring LEDs in the side mirrors and rear cross-traffic alert. Features that are helpful yet perhaps overdue. The addition of puddle lamps to illuminate the side steps at night and the removal of heated side mirrors from the feature list are both examples of Toyota giving with one hand while taking with the other. Toyota engineers upgraded the current suspension by expanding the front suspension arm and front stabiliser bar length to accommodate the HiLux Rogue’s wider track. To increase the effectiveness of the shock absorber, they also changed its angle. For improved braking performance, new ventilated rear disc brakes replace the original drum brakes, while the front disc brakes have been upgraded to units with a diameter of 17 inches, an inch larger than before.
The 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, which comes with a six-speed automated gearbox, is the most potent engine available for the 2023 Toyota Hilux. It generates 500Nm of torque between 1600 and 2800 rpm and 150kW of power at 3400 rpm. At 1400-3400 rpm, manual variants produce 420Nm of torque. The lineup includes both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options, and both manual and automatic transmissions are available for all powertrains. The normal gearbox for petrol cars is a five-speed manual, whereas the typical gearbox for diesels is a six-speeder. A six-speed automatic gearbox could be standard or optional, depending on the model. The Workmate Double Cab is 5330mm long and 1855mm wide, while the Single Cab and Workmate 42 Double Cab are each 5325mm long and 1800mm wide, respectively. Ground clearance is specified at 216mm for all variations, with the exception of 42 vehicles with the base petrol engine (174mm), which had a 3085mm wheelbase. For petrol models, the braking towing capacity is 2500 kg, for 42 diesel models it is 2800 kg, and for all 44 models, it is 3500 kg.
The top ten best-selling cars in Australia 2023, then, offer a window into the tastes and concerns of Australian motorists. By establishing a balance between performance, reliability, features, and price, these models have achieved extraordinary success, ultimately winning the hearts and wallets of consumers all over the country. There are a number of reasons why these cars are so popular. Their capacity to satisfy the various needs of Australian drivers comes first. These top-selling models offer a wide range of options to fit different lives and interests, from tough utility vehicles for work and outdoor activities to compact automobiles for effective urban commuting. These vehicles have also gained the patrons’ respect and loyalty due to their dependability and continuous performance. The most popular automobiles in Australia have shown to be dependable partners that can cope with the rigours of daily life. Australian drivers rely on their vehicles for daily transit, long-distance travel, and several other functions. In conclusion, consumer demand, manufacturer innovation, and market dynamics have culminated in the top ten best-selling cars in Australia 2023. They provide automobiles that blend performance, reliability, features, and affordability, reflecting the ideals and aspirations of Australian drivers. These top-selling vehicles are still in control of the market and helping to define Australia’s automotive scene, whether they are being used for work, play, or regular commuting.
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