Affordable doesn't mean cheap. These are the best-value new cars on sale in Australia right now.
Finding affordable new cars in Australia comes down to more than the sticker price. The best-value vehicles balance purchase cost with running costs, reliability and safety. Whether you are after an SUV for the family, a practical ute for work or a fuel-efficient city hatchback, there is a quality new car available at a sensible price point.
Financing a new car through an asset finance or car loan product can spread the cost over manageable monthly payments. Before you head to a dealership, it helps to understand your budget. Use our loan repayment calculator to estimate your weekly repayments based on different loan amounts and terms.
SUVs and sedans
Hatchbacks and sports
Both the hatchback and sports categories reward buyers who prioritise driving enjoyment and running costs over outright size. For city-focused buyers especially, smaller cars remain some of the best-value new cars in Australia in terms of total cost of ownership.
Utes and people movers
Financing your car
Once you have settled on a model, the next step is working out how to finance it. Car loans in Australia are typically secured against the vehicle, which keeps interest rates lower than unsecured personal loans. Terms usually range from one to seven years.
A few things to consider before signing:
Whether you choose to buy outright, use a chattel mortgage, consumer car loan or novated lease will depend on how you plan to use the vehicle. A finance broker can walk you through the options suited to your situation.
Common questions
Q: What is the most affordable new car in Australia under $20,000?
The Suzuki Swift GL starts from around $19,490 drive-away in some states, making it one of the few genuinely new cars available under the $20,000 mark in Australia. It comes with an 8-inch touchscreen and a range of standard safety features, making it good value for city drivers and budget-conscious buyers.
Q: Is it better to buy a new or used car in Australia?
New cars come with manufacturer warranties, the latest safety technology and lower running costs in the early years. Used cars cost less upfront but may have higher maintenance costs and fewer protections. If budget is tight, a demonstrator or near-new vehicle can offer the best of both: minimal depreciation already taken and the remainder of the factory warranty still intact.
Q: How does a car loan affect my ability to borrow for a home?
Lenders count car loan repayments as a financial commitment when assessing your borrowing capacity for a home loan. If you are planning to buy a home soon, it is worth speaking to a broker first. They can advise whether taking on a car loan now will affect your home loan application down the track.