Top-selling SUVs in Australia for August 2025

Australia’s SUV market once again demonstrated its dominance in August 2025, continuing the momentum that has made SUVs the backbone of Australian new-car sales. From budget-friendly city crossovers to six-figure luxury wagons, Aussies continued to vote with their wallets.

Tesla’s Model Y was the standout in the premium mid-size EV space, while MG’s ZS roared back into contention in the small SUV segment. Chinese brands consolidated their presence further, and Toyota held firm at the top with the RAV4 and LandCruiser wagon still the benchmarks in their classes.

August sales at a glimpse

Light SUVs

The Mazda CX-3 once again led the light SUV segment, selling 1,269 units. The Toyota Yaris Cross followed with 771 deliveries, while the Hyundai Venue stayed close behind on 665 sales, proving the segment is still a battleground for urban-focused buyers. The dominance of the CX-3 shows Aussies still value tried-and-tested city SUVs over newer entrants, though Toyota and Hyundai remain steady challengers.

Small SUVs under $45k

The MG ZS made a strong comeback in August, topping the charts with 2,680 sales, up more than 70% year-on-year. The Hyundai Kona continued its solid run with 1,983 units, while the Chery Tiggo 4 impressed with 1,780, highlighting the growing influence of Chinese SUVs. Affordability and value for money continue to drive this segment, with Chinese brands now competing head-to-head with Korean mainstays.

Small SUVs over $45k

Premium small SUVs saw moderate numbers, led by the Audi Q3 on 446 sales. The Volkswagen T-Roc followed with 324 units, edging out the Mercedes-Benz GLA, which secured 317 deliveries. Premium small SUV volumes remain niche, but European brands dominate thanks to their badge appeal and premium features.

Medium SUVs under $60k

The Toyota RAV4 remained unstoppable, delivering 4,115 sales in August – more than double its nearest rivals. The Mitsubishi Outlander claimed second with 1,775 units, while the Kia Sportage rounded out the top three with 1,653. The RAV4’s wide lead reflects ongoing demand for hybrids and Toyota’s strong supply recovery, while Outlander and Sportage carve their space with value-driven family appeal.

Large SUVs under $80k

The Ford Everest regained its crown in August with 2,203 sales, just ahead of the Toyota Prado’s 2,033. The Isuzu MU-X remained a steady choice for buyers, tallying 909 deliveries. Aussies continue to back rugged ladder-frame SUVs, with Everest and Prado locked in a fierce rivalry driven by towing, off-road, and family needs.

Large SUVs over $80k

The Land Rover Defender led the premium large SUV pack with 295 sales, ahead of the BMW X5 (239) and Mercedes-Benz GLE (206). While numbers are smaller, the competition for luxury family haulers remains intense. Buyers in this bracket want capability and exclusivity, and the Defender’s mix of heritage styling and off-road credibility is striking a chord.

Upper Large SUVs under $120k

The Toyota LandCruiser wagon comfortably stayed on top with 1,208 sales, dwarfing the Nissan Patrol’s 397 units. The Land Rover Discovery managed just 32 sales, underscoring the LandCruiser’s entrenched dominance. The LandCruiser’s legendary reputation keeps it untouchable in this segment, proving Australians still love big, capable wagons for both city and outback use.

Upper Large SUVs over $120k

At the very top end, the Lexus GX led the way with 105 deliveries, followed by the BMW X7 (75) and Mercedes-Benz GLS (61). These niche models may sell in smaller numbers but still represent a key market for prestige buyers. This space is all about exclusivity and luxury status, with Lexus continuing to punch above its weight against German heavyweights.

Where August stood against July

Compared to July, August showed stronger overall momentum, with EVs pushing higher up the charts. The Tesla Model Y doubled its performance over July, while the MG ZS bounced back to reclaim its spot as Australia’s top-selling small SUV. Toyota’s RAV4, however, stayed the undisputed leader, holding steady above 4,000 monthly units for a second straight month.

Meanwhile, Ford Everest and Toyota Prado continued their tug-of-war in the large SUV segment, with Everest just pulling ahead in August. At the top end, sales volumes remained steady, reflecting consistent demand for high-dollar SUVs.

Quick takeaways

• The Toyota RAV4 remains the benchmark for SUVs in the medium class, well ahead of its rivals.
• Tesla’s Model Y surged to new highs, solidifying EVs as a mainstream presence in the premium space.
• MG ZS reclaimed its title in the small SUV <$45k category, highlighting value as a strong purchase driver.
• Chinese brands like MG and Chery are consolidating their presence with strong small SUV sales.
• Ford Everest vs Toyota Prado continues to be one of Australia’s fiercest SUV rivalries.
• Toyota LandCruiser remains unbeatable among upper large SUVs under $120k, with no true competitor in sight.