Best Cars to Buy in Australia – Surprisingly, there’s a question that comes my way more frequently than inquiries like ‘would you prefer fries alongside that?’ or even ‘are you mistaken for George Clooney?’ This question centers around one’s curiosity about ‘the finest automobile you’ve ever had the pleasure of driving?’
It’s important to distinguish this question from the more common ‘what’s your favorite car?’ query, which, interestingly, arises less frequently in conversation.
People yearn to discern the ultimate choice, as if an all-knowing Arbiter of All Things existed, making it considerably more convenient to provide a definitive response instead of relying on endless Google searches.
I find myself in the fortunate position of experiencing a wide array of automobiles. You might assume that my personal favorite would be in a constant state of flux, yet astonishingly, it remains remarkably consistent.
I often explain to inquirers that while the most astonishing vehicle I’ve recently experienced is typically the latest supercar I’ve encountered (they’re consistently awe-inspiring), the title of the best car ever always goes to the Porsche 911.
Remarkably, with each new iteration Porsche unveils, it manages to outdo its predecessor. Therefore, the only minor adjustment needed for my response is to include the latest model designation, should you happen to be an aficionado.
As for determining the top cars currently gracing Australian roads, the task appears Herculean. Regrettably, the reality is that there exists an astronomical number of variables, encompassing aspects like value, performance, safety, comfort, and design, all filtered through the intangible lens of personal taste.
The Best 10 Cars in Australia
In essence, cars transcend mere statistics. While I’ve had the privilege of participating in the rigorously scientific process of Wheels magazine’s Car of the Year evaluations (picture a week filled with endless driving, followed by passionate debates with vociferous, opinionated individuals), it underscored the subjectivity inherent in assessing automobiles.
Admittedly, there is often consensus among the judges regarding the Car of the Year selection, yet not without dissenting voices, necessitating a majority vote.
To compile a truly definitive list of the top 10 automobiles, one must appoint an authoritative figure, someone perhaps overly self-assured, willing to divulge their meticulously considered choices.
Allow me to take on this task for you, although rest assured it’s not solely my personal perspective at play here. I’ve taken into account the viewpoints of other esteemed car evaluators, such as the entire CarsGuide team, along with our never-ending deliberations on this very subject.
Of course, in cases where their opinions veered astray, I exercised the prerogative to respectfully disregard them. Here is the 10 best Cars to Buy in Australia.
1. Toyota RAV4
Once considered the underdog in Toyota’s off-road lineup, sporting a less-than-appealing appearance with its drab, ill-fitted grey plastic elements, the RAV4 has blossomed into a genuinely captivating compact SUV. According to numerous experts, it currently ranks among the finest vehicles navigating Australian roads.
This fifth-generation model, with a quarter-century legacy behind it, starts at an enticing price of $30,640 and has garnered praise as an “all-encompassing” and “trailblazing” offering. It’s available as a hybrid, with a total of 11 diverse models to select from.
The Toyota brand have Best Cars to Buy in Australia anda assures a sense of confidence in terms of reliability and engineering, but the RAV4 is transcending mere Toyota status—it’s evolving into something truly extraordinary.
2. Mazda CX-8
One of the Best Cars to Buy in Australia is Mazda CX-8! In a bid to further captivate the already impressed Mazda CX-5 enthusiasts and cater to those who found the Wheels’ Car of the Year-winning CX-9 a tad too imposing, Mazda has masterfully introduced the CX-8, a perfect intermediary.
This vehicle caters to individuals who crave a spacious, soft-roader-style SUV, essentially a people carrier with a distinct persona, all without the desire to pilot a larger one. While offering ample space, an air of opulence, and a touch of luxury on the inside, it effortlessly maneuvers through bustling urban landscapes, distinguishing itself from its larger sibling.
True to the modern Mazda ethos, it exudes a sense of style, boasting an unexpectedly appealing design given its dimensions.
To be impartial, the entire CX lineup stands as a testament to Mazda’s excellence, allowing you to select the one that best suits your family’s needs. However, the CX-8 shines as the latest and most exceptional addition, with pricing commencing at $46,490 and exclusively offering a diesel powertrain option.
At this juncture, it’s worth noting that we could also make room for the Mazda MX-5, recognized as Australia’s premier affordable sports car. Nonetheless, choices are finite, and we can’t encompass them all.
3. Ford Ranger Wildtrak
The Ford Ranger stands out as a rare gem in the automotive landscape, effortlessly reshaping the market, especially when it comes to the realm of colossal pickup trucks or the now-fashionable term ‘utes,’ a nod to our quest for cultural individuality.
If your choice for a family car or a reliable workhorse is a ute, it’s evident why the Ranger captures your attention. There’s an inherent ‘rightness’ to its design that’s hard to ignore. It balances extravagance without crossing the line into offensiveness. It’s assertive and confident in its appearance, yet it manages to avoid becoming grating.
Enthusiasts of this genre find themselves gushing about the Ranger and its driving experience. Personally, I tend to view most pickup trucks as more rustic and too imposing to offer a genuinely enjoyable driving experience.
Surprisingly, despite its appearance suggesting a V8 engine the size of a small house, the Wildtrak can be equipped with a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, albeit at a somewhat eye-popping price of $60,590.
For those seeking a more standard Ranger, the starting price can be as low as $27,990, delivering a substantial amount of vehicle for your investment.
4. Subaru Forester
One of the Best Cars to Buy in Australia is Subaru Forester! I’ve expressed this sentiment previously, and I’ll reiterate it here once more. When individuals with modest budgets, those who aren’t seeking Porsche or Ferrari luxury, inquire about my recommendation for their next car, I consistently offer them the same advice: Opt for the finest Subaru that fits within your budget.
In today’s contemporary landscape, there are moments when I consider changing that recommendation to “Mazda,” but Subaru maintains its edge with its all-wheel-drive prowess, ruggedness, and a stellar reputation for reliability.
Currently, the apex Subaru model within your financial reach is the latest Forester. While it has long served as a dependable family transport, the new iteration breaks away from the past by shedding its unattractive design, offering improved driving dynamics, and presenting a more appealing and modern interior.
From a personal standpoint, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) might not be my preference, but for those who prioritize dependable transportation over spirited driving and desire a vehicle that can reliably accommodate them and their families in comfort, capable of venturing virtually anywhere without imposing its bulk on the surroundings, the Forester emerges as the victor. Moreover, it represents exceptional value, with a starting price of just $33,490.
5. Porsche Macan
There are certain Best Cars to Buy in Australia that I find myself hesitant to embrace, owing to my sometimes unpredictable and stubborn nature. However, I’m open to being pleasantly surprised and admitting when I’ve misjudged.
For me, the notion of Porsche venturing into the realm of SUVs always seemed like a departure from their traditional identity. Nevertheless, in the present era, SUVs make up a substantial portion of their sales, exceeding 70 percent.
Nonetheless, this didn’t automatically endear me to them, as I tried convincing myself that the Macan was merely a tweaked version of the Audi Q5, given their shared platform and some common components. However, the reality is that the Macan, starting at $80,400, offers an affordable entry point into Porsche ownership. Furthermore, the $97,500 Macan S proves to be an SUV that fulfills all your needs.
Venture into larger models like the Cayenne, and you’ll have to contend with increased weight. Unfortunately, the Macan strikes the perfect balance for urban driving.
Beyond its practicality, it’s undeniably delightful to drive, boasts a genuinely luxurious interior, and excels in nearly every aspect. In my opinion, it ranks as the ultimate SUV. A truly satisfying experience.
6. BMW 3 Series
Indeed, the demand for family sedans is on a steady decline, and this trend of the Best Cars to Buy in Australia is exemplified by the BMW 3 Series. Once the flagship and top-seller for BMW worldwide, this iconic model has seen its dominance diminish in Australia, where more than 60 percent of BMW vehicles now bear the X badge.
Nevertheless, BMW continues to excel with the seventh generation of this legendary and genuinely sporty sedan. Unlike its predecessor, this iteration rekindles the enchantment with its sophisticated interior, visually appealing exterior design, and an invigorating yet fuel-efficient engine package.
Most notably, it upholds the quintessential BMW driving experience, offering ample driving pleasure for enthusiasts and fostering a genuine connection between driver and machine.
With a starting price of $67,900, it enters the market poised to challenge the wave of family SUVs. Thanks to its lower center of gravity, it promises an edge in cornering excitement. Yet, whether it can truly compete remains to be seen.
7. Mazda3
While opinions on this matter may vary, there’s a noteworthy consideration to keep in mind – I couldn’t personally make a purchase due to the rear door/window height causing discomfort for my children during the ride. Nevertheless, I firmly believe it stands as the top choice among compact cars.
If my kids could overcome their occasional complaints, I’d be inclined to make the purchase. The reason being, I’m enamored by its luxurious aura and appearance, which unquestionably justifies the $24,990 initial cost. Driving it, you’ll sense a value surpassing its price tag, especially when opting for higher trim levels.
Considering its compact dimensions, the One of the Best Cars to Buy in Australia and driving experience remains engaging, and noise levels inside the vehicle are impressively minimal (a significant improvement over the previous model).
Historically, obtaining this level of quality meant turning to German brands and shelling out extra cash. However, times have changed.
It’s worth noting that some individuals, on the other hand, may lean towards the new Toyota Corolla.
8. Tesla Model 3
Observing this, I had no intention of succumbing to the prevailing excitement. If anything, I’ve often regarded Elon Musk as a consistently fortuitous maverick. However, immersing oneself in the vision of the future encapsulated in this four-wheeled wonder is an experience that propels you beyond the boundaries of conventional reality.
It unquestionably renders all traditional internal-combustion-engine vehicles instantly archaic and somewhat mundane, akin to comparing them to plain soy milk.
The interior exudes a captivating modernity, with the focal point being the colossal touchscreen. This innovation grants you the ability to engage in previously unimaginable activities, such as simulating a driving experience while comfortably stationed in your garage, complete with the actual car’s steering wheel.
You can even set the mood with ‘Romance Mode,’ reminiscent of a cozy fireplace accompanied by melodic tunes, or indulge in some playful fun with ‘Emissions Testing Mode’ (a collection of humorous sound effects at your disposal).
It embodies a harmonious blend of enjoyment and forward-thinking. However, it’s when you take the wheel and experience its acceleration that you truly appreciate its unparalleled performance—fast, in a league of its own.
Furthermore, the tranquility of electric vehicle operation, the hassle-free maintenance, the spacious cabin, and the appealing $66,000 price tag all contribute to its allure. Astonishingly, the Performance variant can be acquired for just $85,000, outclassing German rivals that command twice the cost.
Admittedly, it’s an electric vehicle, a consideration that doesn’t resonate with me personally (largely due to our limited charging infrastructure and the absence of a personal garage, rather than a disinterest in electric propulsion). Nevertheless, it remains one of the foremost automobiles available today, without question.
9. Porsche 911
The most recent iteration of the Porsche 911, known as the 992 model, made its debut in Australia in 2019. It stands out as the pinnacle of 911 evolution, potentially even earning the title of the ultimate automobile.
Without a doubt, it represents the epitome of what I like to refer to as “genuine” luxury. Yes, I’m proposing that a price tag of approximately $265,000 is a reasonably justifiable investment for a remarkable vehicle, while any car exceeding the $300,000 threshold ventures into the realm of extravagant supercars.
The 911, in its essence, embodies automotive perfection. Granted, it lacks practicality, with its seemingly impractical rear seats, and if you happen to reside in Victoria, it might obliterate your driving privileges in under three months.
However, the undeniable truth remains that it delivers an absolutely astonishing driving experience, boasting flawlessly balanced steering that could bring tears of joy to your hands. It can navigate corners with the precision of a race car or effortlessly glide through traffic in a cabin of unparalleled refinement, catering to your mood.
It embodies everything one could desire in an automobile. Regrettably, with a price tag exceeding $200,000, for most of us, yearning for one is as close as we’ll ever come.
The silver lining is that the older models retain their greatness, and over time, you may find a second-hand option within your reach.
10. Toyota Hilux
Over the past year, the Toyota Hilux has consistently claimed the throne in Australian car sales for half of the months, while the Ford Ranger seized the top spot for the other six months. Riding a wave of increasing popularity nationwide, the Hilux has firmly established itself as Australia’s most rugged and dependable dual cab ute.
With a diverse range of options, including both petrol and diesel variants, the Hilux caters to a wide spectrum of needs. It also offers an extensive array of customizations, including trays, canopies, bull bars, and comfortable seating options.
The Toyota brand, in general, maintains its commanding presence in the automotive market, having emerged as the top-selling brand in March 2023, amassing over 40,900 registrations thus far this year.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Toyota Hilux reviews and news from our esteemed partners at Chasing Cars.
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