Top-selling SUVs in Australia for May 2026

SUVs remained Australia’s dominant vehicle category in May 2026, accounting for 65.5% of all new-vehicle deliveries, while electrified models continued gaining momentum across key segments. While the overall new-vehicle market softened slightly, demand for SUVs remained resilient as buyers increasingly embraced electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

According to VFACTS data released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), Australians purchased 100,206 new vehicles during May, down 4.8$ compared with the same month last year. Despite the decline in overall sales, SUV deliveries rose 0.8% year-on-year to 64,214 units, reinforcing the segment’s position as the dominant force in the Australian market.

A major theme throughout May was the continued rise of electrification. Battery-electric vehicles accounted for 19.9% of all new-vehicle deliveries, while electrified vehicles including hybrids and plug-in hybrids represented 46.4% of the market. The growing popularity of low-emissions vehicles was particularly evident in the SUV sector, where buyers are increasingly choosing electrified alternatives to traditional petrol and diesel models.

The month also delivered a landmark result for electric vehicles. The Tesla Model Y became both Australia’s best-selling SUV and the first EV ever to top the nation’s overall monthly vehicle sales charts, recording 5,605 deliveries and outselling the Toyota RAV4, Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

Brand performance further highlighted changing market dynamics. Toyota remained Australia’s best-selling brand with 16,342 deliveries, while BYD continued its rapid rise with 8,211 sales. Chinese brands also performed strongly in the SUV market, with models such as the Omoda Jaecoo J5, Chery Tiggo 4, Geely EX5 and BYD Sealion 7 featuring among Australia’s best-selling SUVs. 

Here’s a look at the top-ten best-selling SUVs of May 2026:

Best-selling SUV by segment

Segment leaders in May 2026

Light SUVs

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The light SUV segment remains a popular choice for urban motorists seeking practicality, efficiency and affordability. The Mazda CX-3 led the category with 782 deliveries, ahead of the Suzuki Jimny (656) and Toyota Yaris Cross (635). While volumes are modest compared with larger SUV segments, these compact models continue to appeal to first-time buyers and city-focused households.

Small SUVs (under $45,000)

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Competition remains fierce in Australia’s most affordable SUV category. The Hyundai Kona topped the segment with 2,291 sales, narrowly ahead of the Omoda Jaecoo J5 (2,172) and Chery Tiggo 4 (2,123). The close battle highlights the growing influence of Chinese brands as buyers seek value-packed vehicles with modern technology and strong warranty coverage.

Small SUVs (over $45,000)

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Premium compact SUVs continue to attract buyers looking for luxury and advanced technology in a smaller footprint. The Kia EV3 led the segment with 531 sales, followed by the BMW X1/iX1 (482) and Mercedes-Benz GLA (311). Electrification is becoming increasingly important in this category, with EVs gaining traction among premium buyers.

Medium SUVs (under $65,000)

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This remains Australia’s largest and most competitive SUV segment. The Tesla Model Y dominated with 5,605 deliveries, more than 1,700 units ahead of the Toyota RAV4 (3,865), while the Hyundai Tucson secured third place with 2,287 sales. The result underlines the growing acceptance of EVs among mainstream buyers while demonstrating that hybrid favourites such as the RAV4 continue to enjoy strong demand.

Medium SUVs (over $65,000)

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Electrification is also reshaping the premium medium SUV market. The Zeekr 7X led the category with 966 sales, ahead of the BMW X3/iX3 (526) and Mazda CX-60 (506). Buyers in this segment are increasingly willing to embrace EV technology, attracted by improved range, performance and premium features.

Large SUVs (under $80,000)

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Large SUVs remain a cornerstone of the Australian market, particularly among families, caravan owners and regional buyers. The Ford Everest led the segment with 1,876 sales, followed by the Isuzu MU-X (1,062) and Toyota Prado (987). Strong demand reflects the ongoing popularity of vehicles offering seven-seat practicality, towing capability and off-road credentials.

Large SUVs (over $80,000)

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Luxury and capability continue to drive buyer interest in this segment. The BMW X5 led with 429 deliveries, ahead of the Land Rover Defender (390) and Lexus RX (183). These models appeal to buyers seeking premium comfort, advanced technology and long-distance touring capability.

Upper Large SUVs (under $120,000)

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The Toyota LandCruiser once again dominated Australia’s heavy-duty SUV segment with 1,262 sales, comfortably ahead of the Nissan Patrol (428) and Denza B8 (296). The LandCruiser’s enduring popularity reflects its reputation for durability, towing strength and remote-area capability.

Upper Large SUVs (over $120,000)

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At the top end of the SUV market, the BMW X7 led with 162 deliveries, ahead of the Lexus GX (67) and Lexus LX (64). These flagship models continue to attract buyers seeking luxury, space and a commanding road presence.

Market trends and key takeaways

May 2026 reinforced the strength of Australia’s SUV market while highlighting the accelerating shift toward electrification.

Key trends to note:

• EV adoption reached record levels, accounting for 19.9% of all new-vehicle sales.
• Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models continued to gain popularity, helping electrified vehicles capture 46.4% of the market.
• Chinese brands including Chery, Geely, BYD and Omoda Jaecoo continued expanding their market share.
• Electrified SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV3 and Zeekr 7X demonstrated growing consumer confidence in EV technology.
• Traditional family favourites including the Toyota RAV4, Ford Everest and Toyota LandCruiser remained among Australia’s strongest performers.
• The Tesla Model Y became the first electric vehicle to top Australia’s overall monthly sales charts.

May 2026 highlighted the changing face of Australia’s SUV market. While established favourites such as the Toyota RAV4, Ford Everest and Toyota LandCruiser remained strong performers, electric and Chinese-branded SUVs continued to gain momentum. Leading the charge was the Tesla Model Y, which not only became Australia’s best-selling SUV, but also the first EV ever to top the nation’s overall sales charts.