March marks the ninth consecutive record-breaking month in new car sales
Each month, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries releases a report detailing the top-selling vehicles across Australia. Pickles’ monthly vehicle report presents the top 10 vehicles from this list and recounts industry news and trends as they affect the Australian market.
Market snapshot
With sales so good each month, it’s looking like we’ll have another all-time recording breaking year in 2024. There have already been over 300,000 new vehicles sold in Australia from January to March, making this period the best ever first quarter results. New vehicle sales in March alone were record high with over 109,000 units sold across the country, making it the ninth consecutive record breaking month in Australian history. These sales results represent the strong consumer interest in motor vehicles, with Australians still spending the big bucks when it comes to cars even amidst the current economic turmoil. While results keep growing, some industry insiders are holding their breath to see if it lasts or if we’ll potentially see a downturn in sales as economic pressures increase through the year.
SUVs were the most popular makes during March, with the segment accounting for just under 60% of all sales. While the other most popular makes, passenger and light commercial vehicles, both dipped by over 1% in March compared to YoY to the same month in 2023. Battery electric vehicles are performing well month after month, with the consumer preference towards greener cars being reflected in sales results. The increased interest in electric and hybrid vehicles is anticipated to drastically increase in 2024, particularly towards the end of the year when Australia will introduce the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES). For Australia, the introduction of NVES could have a huge impact on the vehicle industry. Manufacturers will soon be expected to introduce these new standards in their models and developing these new products in the large SUV or light commercial vehicle segments may see prices skyrocket for consumers.
Most popular vehicles | March 2024
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Ford Ranger - 5,661 units sold in March
The Ford Ranger was on top for another consecutive month, with over 5,600 sales recorded throughout March. The Ford Ranger is well known for its workhorse features while maintaining a stylish exterior and is a popular choice amidst Australian consumers.
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Toyota RAV4 - 5,070 units sold in March
Making a massive jump up to the second spot on the list, the RAV4 is one of Australia’s most popular vehicles, with over 5,000 units sold throughout March. Given the RAV4 is always in high demand, keeping up to date with Pickles’ sales is the best way to purchase a quality used model.
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Tesla Model Y - 4,379 units sold in March
After a hiatus from the top sellers list, the Tesla Model Y jumped into the spotlight with over 4,300 units sold in March. The Tesla Model Y is one of several popular EV makes that have seen an increase in sales as Australians turn towards EV/hybrid vehicle options.
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Toyota HiLux - 3,995 units sold in March
With an unexpected slip down the list, the Toyota HiLux sold just under 4,000 units throughout March. The Hilux is a versatile and powerful Australian favourite, popular with both private and business buyers. Check out all of the quality used HiLux models available at Pickles.
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Mitsubishi Outlander - 2,764 units sold in March
Sales of Mitsubishi Outlander units were solid in March, with over 2,700 units sold. As a staple of the Australian car market, buyers are lucky to have access to a wide variety of used Outlander models featured in Pickles’ sales.
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Isuzu UTE D-MAX - 2,465 units sold in March
D-MAX sales have been sturdy and consistent so far in 2024, with a solid result of 2,400+ units sold in March. For car buyers looking for the practicality of a work vehicle along with the versatility of a family car, the D-MAX is a popular car choice.
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Ford Everest - 2,264 units sold in March
Jumping back onto the list after a brief hiatus, the Ford Everest had a solid month of sales with just over 2,200 units purchased. The Everest is a spacious family vehicle, popular for being a reliable option for large families.
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Nissan X-Trail - 2,161 units sold in March
The Nissan X-Trail is already gearing up to have a fantastic year of sales, with many units sold each month so far in 2024. The X-Trail is a popular Australian vehicle, loved for its family friendliness and offroad capacity.
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Toyota LandCruiser - 2,159 units sold in March
The beloved Toyota Landcruiser is both huge in size and popularity and recorded just over 2,100 unit sales in March. The model is popular in Australia due to its spacious and versatile make as well as its ability to navigate offroading and city driving with ease.
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Mazda CX-5 - 2,134 units sold in March
The stylish and compact Mazda CX-5 just made it on the list, with over 2,100 units sold last month. Because of the CX-5s popularity, there are always quality, used models available at Pickles.
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15 Apr