A Look Back at Australia’s Top-Selling Cars of 2022

In the past year, Australia’s car sales have shown signs of continued recovery. Nonetheless, this is a positive sign, given that the auto industry has been reeling from the lingerie effects of the pandemic for the past two years. 

As restrictions continue to relax, more and more Australians take to the roads, and cars slowly become a staple once again - which explains the rise in sales (we will talk about that later). 

With all that in mind, let’s now find out which cars were the most popular among our mates last year:

A little preview 

According to Tony Weber, CEO of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), despite shortages in microprocessors and supply chain issues caused by the ongoing pandemic, a large number of cars were sold in 2022, and 2023 is expected to exceed those numbers.

While petrol-fueled vehicles continued to lead the pack, electric vehicles are beginning to see significant sales increases in 2022, as customers seek low-emission vehicles. 

SUVs are still the most popular vehicles among Australian car buyers, accounting for 76.8% of sales last year. 

The top ten sales by model revealed….

1. Toyota Hilux

Are we surprised that this legendary ute is Australia’s top choice this year? We certainly aren’t. With 64,391 total sales in 2022, Toyota Hilux is the most popular vehicle on Australian roads in 2022, with 64,391 sales.

For years, the Hilux has been Australia’s best-selling vehicle, and why is that? It is due to the strong appeal and road toughness that have exemplified the country’s way of life.  Aside from that, new innovations such as 2.8L diesel engine, connectivity features (Apple CarPlay. Android Auto), and Toyota SafeSense technology ensure a comfortable and worry-free ride.

2. Ford Ranger

Following in the footsteps of the Hilux is another traditional Australian choice – the Ford Ranger, with 47,479 units sold in 2022. 

There was never a doubt that this car would make it to second place. Its big power, highlighted by its 3.5 Ecoboost V6 engine and 10-speed transmission, military-grade aluminium alloy body and high-strength steel frame,  smart driving assistance like Ford SYNC 4, Collision Assist with Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System, Lane-Keeping System, Rear-view Camera, and Post-Collision Braking, to name a few, have consistently marked it as a hot commodity among Australian car buyers. 

3. Toyota RAV4

The second Toyota car to make it into the top 3 is the RAV 4, which sold 34,845 units last year. 

The eight-time Car of the Year awardee has plenty of features that keep it a popular choice in Australia. What’s more appealing to you when it comes to serviceable cars than 2.5L AWD Hybrid Electric that delivers 163 kW, 1,500kg braked towing capacity, spacious cabin with cutting-edge tech additions and a 360-degree view monitor, improved fuel economy, and so much more?

4. Mitsubishi Triton

Advertised as ‘the ute you want, the ute you need’, Triton was indeed one of Australia’s top car choices in 2022, with 27,436 units sold. 

A certified workforce grinder, Triton is true to its strong outlook. Its 2.4L MIVEC turbo diesel engine delivers a strong performance while maintaining a smooth ride. Its aerodynamic body provides solid handling and dynamic stability wherever it goes. Itis also heavy load-ready, making transportation a breeze.

5. Mazda CX-5

Zoom zoom! Mazda CX-5 is coming to town! 

The fifth best-selling car in Australia for 2022 (27,062 sales), this Mazda wonder car is also in contention with its 5-seater configuration, 2.5L turbo petrol engine, and sleek new front-end design. Technology-wise, it boasts itself with a 360-degree view monitor, TFT LCD multi-display information, active drive display, and Bose speakers. 

6. Toyota Corolla

Toyota’s Corolla, yet another Australian car scene staple, makes an appearance here with 25,284 sales ending a productive 2022.

Also equipped with a hybrid electric engine, it carries a 1.8L 103kW Hybrid Electric option. Enhanced driving pleasure, sleek alloys, eye-catching style – all that can be seen on the outside. It also has plenty of technology under the hood, such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless connectivity.

7. Toyota Landcruiser

The Toyota Landcruiser comes in seventh place on this list, with a total of 24,542 units sold in 2022.

The bold front benders, big front jumper, pillar-mounted snorkel, and halogen headlamps complete its appealing exterior. For extra safety, it has a collapsible steering column, stability and traction control, and dual airbags. Additionally, it also has a 4.5L V8 turbo diesel engine, a towing capacity of 3,500 kgs, and active traction control.

8. Isuzu Ute D-Max

The cutting-edge performance of the Isuzu Ute-D Max lands a place on this list, with 24,336 units sold in 2022.

The 5-star ANCAP-rated vehicle, which Isuzu claims  is ‘designed to handle the harshest of Australian conditions’, is true to its word. With a 3.0L turbo diesel engine, 450-nm torque, 140kW power, and 3.5T towing capacity, as well as being equipped with Intelligent Driver Assistance System (IDAS), leather-accented interior, and Apple CarPlay plus Android Auto. The D-Max will never disappoint whatever the road conditions seem to be.

9. MG ZS

Luxury and comfort combined – that is the MG ZS. With 22,466 units already purchased by Australian car buyers in 2022, it is safe to say Zs has exceeded those expectations.

A combination of practicality and style makes Zs a prime choice for its enthusiasts. And why not? With its luxurious front grille, LED DRL headlights, 8” infotainment system, and 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty, the tests presented on the roads will always be passed.

10. Hyundai i30

Whether it be a hatchback or sedan, the Hyundai i30 made a name for itself among Australian car buyers this year, as evidenced by its end-of-year sales total of 21,166 units. 

Hyundai’s electric vehicle lineup includes numerous features that ensure a comfortable and safe ride. The SmartSense safety driver technology, multimedia touchscreen display, 7-speaker premium audio, stunning digital display, and leathered interior provide a unique driving experience. Outside, it shows off with its sleek display and cascading front grille. 

End of the ride

Car sales are steadily increasing, even though the industry is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic. With fewer restrictions along the way, an increasing number of car buyers are looking for their ideal car to drive on future road trips and travels.

Are you one of them? Don’t look now, there is Motor Matcher to help you out with that. With its systemised means to buy, lease, finance and sell your car, getting your new ride is now just a click away. It’s all at www.motormatcher.com.au.