The Australian new-car market shifted in 2025, shaped by the arrival of all-new models, expanding electric line-ups, and the growing influence of newer brands. Australian buyers had more choice than in previous years, with new launches ranging from mainstream small cars to large SUVs, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric models.
Electric and hybrid options became more prominent in family and SUV segments, while established manufacturers updated core models with improved tech, efficiency, and interior design. Meanwhile, emerging brands entered the market with aggressive pricing and long equipment lists, aiming to win over cost-conscious buyers.
Whether fully redesigned or comprehensively updated, these ten vehicles were among the most significant new arrivals for Australian buyers.
MG 7 (2nd generation)
Starting price: $44,990 (Drive-away)
The second-generation MG 7 signalled a change in direction for the brand, adopting a sleek fastback sedan shape that placed a stronger emphasis on style and road presence than MG’s usual value-led approach. The MG 7’s low-slung profile and modern lighting treatment set it apart from more conservatively styled rivals.
As an affordable alternative to European and Japanese sedans, the MG 7 emphasized generous standard equipment while keeping pricing competitive. Strong in-car technology, a spacious cabin and a modern powertrain lineup added to its appeal as a value-led but more upmarket-feeling option.
The MG 7 appealed to buyers wanting standout styling without the cost of a premium badge, extending MG’s line-up beyond its traditional entry-level focus.
Skoda Superb (4th generation)
Starting price: $67,990 (Before on-road costs)
The fourth-generation Skoda Superb carried forward the model’s reputation for understated design and strong everyday practicality. Exterior changes were subtle rather than dramatic, preserving the clean, restrained look that has long defined the Superb.
The Superb continued to serve as a spacious, well-equipped alternative to mainstream large sedans and wagons, often delivering more room and features for the price. A well-finished cabin, generous rear-seat room and a large boot made the Superb especially appealing for families and long trips.
Value remained a key part of the Superb’s appeal, with generous standard equipment and a comfort-focused setup attracting buyers who wanted refinement without luxury-brand pricing.
Cupra Leon (Facelift)
Starting price: $46,990 (Drive-away)
The updated Cupra Leon reinforced the brand’s sporty positioning in Australia through subtle exterior changes and refreshed interior technology. The Leon’s sharp front-end styling and copper detailing gave it a clear visual separation from its Volkswagen Group counterparts.
The Leon sat between mainstream small hatches and full hot hatches, offering everyday usability with a more engaging on-road character. The Leon’s powertrain choices and chassis setup offered a step up from regular small hatches, without the intensity of a full hot hatch.
From a value perspective, the Leon combined performance, design and equipment in a way that appealed to buyers drawn to European styling but mindful of ownership costs.
Honda Civic Hybrid (Eleventh Generation)
Starting price: $49,990 (Drive-away)
The eleventh-generation Honda Civic adopted a more mature, restrained design, featuring cleaner lines and a noticeably more upscale interior. This styling shift appealed more to buyers who preferred subtle design over bold visual statements.
Honda presented the Civic as a more premium small car, placing greater emphasis on refinement, efficiency and safety technology than on low entry pricing. The hybrid variant was particularly important for buyers prioritising fuel efficiency and smooth urban driving.
Although priced above many rivals, the Civic backed up its asking price with strong build quality, advanced features and a long-standing reputation for reliability.
GWM Tank 500 PHEV
Starting price: $79,990 (Drive-away)
The GWM Tank 500 PHEV arrived in Australia as a large plug-in hybrid SUV with a clear focus on off-road capability. Its bold, upright styling leaned into size and presence rather than chasing a sleek or urban-focused look.
The Tank 500 PHEV sat between traditional diesel off-road wagons and newer electrified SUVs, combining short-range electric driving with petrol power for longer trips. Cabin design and technology were clearly prioritised, helping the Tank 500 PHEV compete with more expensive large SUVs.
In value terms, the Tank 500 PHEV offered a high level of equipment and capability for its price, especially when compared with established large SUVs of similar size.
BYD Sealion 7
Starting price: $54,990 (Before on-road costs)
The BYD Sealion 7 has been added to the brand’s electric SUV lineup, adopting a coupe-style silhouette that balances style with efficiency. The Sealion 7’s clean exterior surfaces and modern interior design highlighted BYD’s newer design approach.
The Sealion 7 slotted into the mid-to-large electric SUV category, appealing to buyers who wanted extra space and presence without stepping up to a full-size SUV. Strong driving range, modern cabin technology and easy day-to-day usability underpinned its appeal.
With sharp pricing and strong standard equipment, the Sealion 7 was aimed at buyers looking to make the jump into their first electric SUV.
Kia K4
Starting price: $32,090 (Before on-road costs)
The Kia K4 replaced the Cerato in Australia, bringing a sharper, more angular design in line with Kia’s latest styling direction. The K4’s bolder styling helped it stand out among more conservatively styled small sedans.
The K4 focused on affordability and practicality, appealing to buyers looking for a modern small car with updated safety and infotainment technology. The focus was on cabin space and user-friendly design rather than outright performance.
With a strong standard feature list and competitive entry pricing, the K4 appealed to first-time buyers and cost-conscious households.
Mitsubishi ASX (Second Generation)
Starting price: $37,740 (Before on-road costs)
After a long run in its previous form, the second-generation Mitsubishi ASX arrived as a significant update for one of Australia’s best-selling small SUVs. A refreshed exterior aligned the ASX with Mitsubishi’s latest styling, while interior updates focused on improved technology and comfort.
The ASX remained a mainstream small SUV, aimed at buyers prioritising simplicity, reliability and easy ownership. Hybrid variants expanded the ASX’s appeal, particularly as fuel efficiency became more important to buyers.
Value continued to underpin the ASX’s appeal, supported by competitive pricing and Mitsubishi’s comprehensive warranty.
Chery Tiggo 9 Hybrid
Starting price: $59,990 (Drive-away)
The Chery Tiggo 9 Hybrid joined the Australian market as a large, family-focused SUV with a strong emphasis on space and efficiency.The Tiggo 9 Hybrid adopted a clean, modern exterior, steering clear of aggressive styling.
The Tiggo 9 Hybrid sat as an alternative to established seven-seat SUVs, using hybrid power to improve efficiency without compromising practicality. Interior design and standard equipment levels stood out for the segment.
In value terms, the Tiggo 9 Hybrid offered a generous equipment list for its price, appealing to families wanting size and technology without premium-brand costs.
GAC Emzoom
Starting price: $25,590 (Drive-away)
GAC entered the Australian market with the Emzoom, a compact SUV defined by bold styling and a youthful design approach. The Emzoom’s sharp lines and distinctive front-end styling set it apart from many small SUV competitors.
The Emzoom was aimed at urban and younger buyers, with an emphasis on technology, connectivity and ease of use. Its compact size and powertrain options were better suited to city driving than off-road use.
As a value-focused newcomer, the Emzoom combined competitive pricing with strong standard equipment, highlighting the growing influence of new brands in Australia.
Australia’s Key New Car Launches of 2025
The Australian new-car market in 2025 was marked by diversity, with no single trend dominating the year. Long-standing models adapted to changing expectations, as newer entrants attracted attention with competitive pricing and strong feature lists.
Electric and hybrid vehicles gained wider acceptance, especially in family and SUV segments, while petrol-powered models stayed relevant through improvements in refinement and technology. Across all segments, increased competition translated into more choice, clearer value for money and a broader mix of design styles.
Collectively, these ten vehicles captured changing priorities among Australian buyers and the ongoing evolution of the local new-car market.
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