SUVs continued to dominate Australia’s new-car market in February 2026, reinforcing their position as the country’s most popular vehicle type. A total of 57,295 SUVs were sold during the month, representing a significant share of overall new-vehicle deliveries.
The segment’s popularity reflects the wide variety of SUVs now available to Australian buyers. From compact city-friendly crossovers to rugged off-roaders and luxury family haulers, SUVs offer a combination of practicality, versatility, and technology that appeals to a broad audience.
Competition also remains intense across most price brackets, with newer brands pushing aggressively into the market while established players continue to rely on strong reputations and loyal customer bases.
Here’s a look at the top-ten best-selling SUVs of February 2026:
| Model | Sales (February 2026) | Sales (January 2026) |
| Tesla Model Y | 2,791 | 288 |
| Chery Tiggo 4 | 2,315 | 2,234 |
| Mazda CX-5 | 2,099 | 2,289 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander | 2,070 | 1,975 |
| Hyundai Kona | 2,023 | 1,839 |
| GWM Haval Jolion | 1,804 | 1,789 |
| Ford Everest | 1,778 | 1,913 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 1,705 | 1,729 |
| MG ZS | 1,337 | 1,267 |
| Isuzu MU-X | 1,292 | 1,131 |
Best-selling SUV by segment
| SUV Category | Model | Units sold |
| Light SUVs | Mazda CX-3 | 1,110 |
| Toyota Yaris Cross | 824 | |
| Suzuki Jimny | 637 | |
| Small SUVs (under $45,000) | Chery Tiggo 4 | 2,315 |
| Hyundai Kona | 2,023 | |
| GWM Haval Jolion | 1,804 | |
| Small SUVs (over $45,000) | BMW X1 | 315 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLA | 312 | |
| Volkswagen T-Roc | 301 | |
| Medium SUVs (under $65,000) | Mazda CX-5 | 2,099 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander | 2,070 | |
| Hyundai Tucson | 1,705 | |
| Medium SUVs (over $65,000) | Tesla Model Y | 2,791 |
| Zeekr 7X | 628 | |
| Lexus NX | 439 | |
| Large SUVs (under $80,000) | Ford Everest | 1,778 |
| Isuzu MU-X | 1,292 | |
| Toyota Prado | 1,273 | |
| Large SUVs (over $80,000) | BMW X5 | 237 |
| Land Rover Defender | 176 | |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE | 169 | |
| Upper Large SUVs (under $120,000) | Toyota LandCruiser | 827 |
| Nissan Patrol | 495 | |
| Hyundai Ioniq 9 | 19 | |
Upper Large SUVs (over $120,000) | Lexus GX | 77 |
| Lexus LX | 59 | |
| Mercedes-Benz GLS | 54 |
Segment leaders in February 2026
Light SUVs
The light SUV segment remains relatively small but still attracts buyers looking for compact, easy-to-drive vehicles suited to urban life. In February 2026, the segment was led by the Mazda CX-3 with 1,110 units, followed by the Toyota Yaris Cross (824) and Suzuki Jimny (637).
These vehicles are popular with city drivers who prioritise affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of parking. While they may not offer the space of larger SUVs, their practicality and lower running costs keep them relevant in the market.
Small SUVs (under $45,000)
This remains one of the most competitive and fastest-growing segments in Australia. February 2026 was dominated by the Chery Tiggo 4 (2,315), followed by the Hyundai Kona (2,023) and GWM Haval Jolion (1,804).
Affordability and value continue to drive demand here. Buyers want modern infotainment systems, strong safety features, and attractive pricing without moving into the larger and more expensive medium SUV category.
Small SUVs (over $45,000)
Premium small SUVs serve a more niche market. In February 2026, the segment leaders were the BMW X1 (315 units), Mercedes-Benz GLA (312), and Volkswagen T-Roc (301).
Buyers in this category are typically seeking premium interiors, advanced driver-assistance systems, and brand prestige while still benefiting from the compact footprint of a smaller SUV.
Medium SUVs (under $65,000)
This continues to be the heart of Australia’s SUV market. February saw the Mazda CX-5 lead the segment with 2,099 units, closely followed by the Mitsubishi Outlander (2,070) and Hyundai Tucson (1,705).
These vehicles offer the best balance of price, interior space, safety, and everyday usability, making them the default choice for many Australian families.
Medium SUVs (over $65,000)
Electrification and premium positioning define this category. The Tesla Model Y dominated the segment in February with 2,791 units, ahead of the Zeekr 7X (628) and Lexus NX (439).
Demand for electrified SUVs continues to grow, particularly among buyers looking for cutting-edge technology and lower running costs combined with premium features.
Large SUVs (under $80,000)
Large family SUVs remain extremely popular in Australia, particularly among buyers who need towing capacity, seven seats, and strong off-road ability. February’s leaders were the Ford Everest (1,778 units), Isuzu MU-X (1,292), and Toyota Prado (1,273).
These models combine practicality with rugged capability, making them ideal for families who tow caravans, travel long distances, or explore Australia’s more remote areas.
Large SUVs (over $80,000)
Luxury and capability come together in this segment. February 2026 saw the BMW X5 lead with 237 units, followed by the Land Rover Defender (176) and Mercedes-Benz GLE (169).
Although volumes are smaller due to higher pricing, demand remains steady as buyers seek comfort, technology, and prestige in a large SUV format.
Upper Large SUVs (under $120,000)
In the heavy-duty SUV category, the Toyota LandCruiser once again dominated with 827 units, followed by the Nissan Patrol (495) and the newly introduced Hyundai Ioniq 9 (19).
These vehicles are designed for towing, off-road touring, and long-distance travel, and remain highly popular with Australian buyers who need durability and capability.
Upper Large SUVs (over $120,000)
At the very top of the SUV market sit the most luxurious offerings. February’s segment leaders included the Lexus GX (77 units), Lexus LX (59), and Mercedes-Benz GLS (54).
These vehicles prioritise luxury, technology, and presence, often serving as premium family transport or executive vehicles.
Market trends and key takeaways
February 2026 confirmed that SUVs remain the dominant force in Australia’s automotive landscape, with 53,876 units sold during the month.
Key trends to note:
- Models such as the Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Hyundai Tucson continue to deliver strong sales thanks to their balance of size, practicality, and affordability.
- The Chery Tiggo 4, topping the monthly sales chart, highlights the growing acceptance of Chinese manufacturers among Australian buyers.
- The Tesla Model Y’s strong performance in the premium medium SUV category shows demand for electric SUVs is continuing to grow.
- Vehicles like the Ford Everest, Isuzu MU-X, and Toyota Prado continue to attract buyers who need towing capability, seven-seat practicality, and off-road ability.
- Luxury models across BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz segments continue to sell consistently, proving there is still strong demand for high-end SUVs despite broader market pressures.
From affordable compact crossovers to luxury off-road flagships, the Australian SUV market continues to evolve rapidly, ensuring buyers have more choice than ever before.
Comments
New Comment