Top 10 cars under $45K in Australia in September 2025

Even though the top-selling cars of September 2025 were two utes and a mid-size electric SUV, the affordable car segment saw strong demand, with small SUVs and compact cars dominating the market. According to VFACTS September 2025 data, presented by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), several models under $45,000 emerged as clear favourites among buyers. It’s important to note that these figures do not include electric vehicles, as VFACTS data for this segment does not cover EV sales.

The top-ten performing models in this segment for the month were:

Small SUVs are leading the charge

When it comes to buying a new car priced under $45,000, small SUVs are the top preference of Australian buyers, offering practicality and versatility at an accessible price point. Chinese brands made a strong showing, with the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro leading the charts, followed by the GWM Haval Jolion (1,881). The Hyundai Kona wasn’t far behind, moving 1,844 units, showing the intense competition between ascendant Chinese brands and established Korean manufacturers.

Other notable performers in the segment include the MG ZS, which sold 1,596 units, and the Toyota Corolla Cross, with 1,055 sales, highlighting the continued popularity of budget-friendly SUVs that strike a balance between features, style, and everyday practicality.

Enduring appeal of other compact cars

While the under $45,000 market is overwhelmingly dominated by high-riding SUVs, conventional passenger cars have not ceded the segment yet. Models like the Toyota Corolla (1,137) and Hyundai i30 (1,021) continue to prove their enduring relevance, attracting urban drivers and small families with their proven fuel efficiency, sharp dynamics, and overall value. Notably, the Mazda CX-30 (936), which blurs the lines by combining hatchback-like dimensions with SUV styling, also secured a position in the top ten, underscoring the versatility demanded by today’s buyers.

Affordability and versatility drive the Australian car market

The market landscape is defined by robust demand for SUVs and compact cars, reflecting a preference among buyers for practical and reliable transportation that suits both urban commuting and recreational use.

The competitive intensity remains highest in the under-$45,000 segment, where a trio of Japanese, Korean, and increasingly prominent Chinese brands are vying for market share. This level of competition ensures that buyers have a wide array of feature-rich and stylish options without a significant premium.