Market ‘resilient’ across ditch

The new-vehicle market in Australia “remains resilient” after 105,285 units were registered last month, a drop of 5.2 per cent from 111,099 in the same month a year ago.

Toyota’s Hilux was the top-selling vehicle in May with 4,952 sales, according to figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).

Next was the Ford Ranger on 4,761, followed by three more Toyota models – the RAV4 with 4,003, Land Cruiser, pictured, on 3,046 and Prado with 2,732.  

After accounting for four of the top five models last month, Toyota was also the leading marque after completing 23,576 registrations.

Ford was second with 8,464 sales, ahead of Mazda on 7,845, Kia with 6,903 and Hyundai on 6,708.   

Tony Weber, FCAI chief executive, says: “While down 5.2 per cent compared to the same month in 2024, the results reflect a market that remains resilient and competitive by historical standards. 

“The fundamentals of the market remain robust, with strong competition and consumer interest across a range of vehicle types.”

In the year to May, SUVs led the market and accounted for 60.4 per cent of all new vehicles sold in Australia, compared with 55.8 per cent at the same stage in 2024.

Call to end tax

The FCAI notes it has also joined with the European Australian Business Council and other Australian peak organisations in calling for a conclusion to a comprehensive free trade agreement with the European Union.  

An agreement could spell the end of what it calls the outdated luxury car tax and the elimination of a five per cent tariff imposed on vehicles from the EU.

“Australia’s automotive sector strongly encourages all participants to deliver a trade outcome that is future-focused rather than prolonging outdated and inefficient policy arrangements, and one that allows Australians to share in world-leading mobility, safety and environmental technologies at the lowest possible prices,” Weber adds.