Australian Used Car Market Trends 2026

After three turbulent years shaped by COVID-era supply chain disruptions, chip shortages, and inflated used-car prices, the Australian used vehicle market is recalibrating. Here is a comprehensive look at the key trends shaping the market in 2026.

Price Normalisation Is Underway

The dramatic price spike of 2021–2023 — when used cars were selling at or above new car prices in some categories — is slowly unwinding. New vehicle supply has largely recovered, reducing the supply-driven premium on used stock. Expect further softening through 2026, particularly in the mainstream mid-size sedan and small hatchback categories.

However, popular utes, family SUVs, and hybrid models are holding their elevated price levels much better than the average, due to continued strong demand and constrained supply of key models.

Utes and Family SUVs Still Command Premiums

The Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-Max continue to command strong used market premiums. LandCruiser 300 Series used prices are still tracking above new car prices in many cases, due to lengthy new car wait times and insatiable regional demand.

Small Cars Are Struggling

As Australians shift toward larger vehicles and Utes, small hatchbacks and sedans are seeing the steepest price corrections. The Holden Commodore's exit from production has also removed a significant segment from the market. Budget buyers benefit from this correction — late-model small cars represent exceptional value in 2026.

Hybrid and EV Demand Is Rising

Fuel prices hovering above $2.00 per litre nationally have accelerated interest in fuel-efficient alternatives. Hybrid vehicles — particularly the RAV4 Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, and Corolla Cross Hybrid — are selling faster on the used market than their petrol equivalents. Used EV demand is growing but remains constrained by buyer range anxiety and charging infrastructure familiarity.

What This Means for Sellers in 2026

• If you own a ute, popular SUV, or hybrid — now is an excellent time to sell into strong demand
• Small car and older sedan owners should be realistic about pricing — the market is competitive
• Damaged and non-running vehicles continue to attract strong scrapper and wrecker demand as parts prices remain elevated

The best time to sell is when your car still has strong demand and before the next wave of price normalisation. Get a quote today and see what the current market offers for your vehicle.