The Australian new vehicle market is celebrating a record-breaking month in July, with 96,859 new cars sold, the highest July result on record, according to data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).
With supply channels continuing to improve on the back of COVID-related impacts, new car sales were up 14.7 per cent on July 2022’s figure, and up on the previous July record of 92,754 recorded in 2017.
Positive sales growth was recorded in all states and territories, with Queensland recording a 4.3 per cent increase, to 19,719 vehicles sold.
The Ford Ranger reestablished its position as the most popular vehicle in the country, recording 5,143 sales (up 75.3 per cent on July 2022, to beat out the Toyota Hilux, which recorded 4,670 sales (down 27.5 per cent). In a shock result, MG leapfrogged the rest of the field to secure the third most popular vehicle for the month through the new ZS model, which recorded 3,852 sales (up 213.4 per cent). The Tesla Model Y continued its strong run in 2023, finishing with 3,330 sales to finish fourth, while Toyota dominated the rest of the top 10 spots through the RAV 4 – 2,750 sales, Corolla – 2,145 sales, Landcruiser – 2,122 sales, and Prado – 1836 sales.
This led the Japanese brand to another top-spot finish on the manufacturer’s rankings, with a total of 19,191 sales recorded across the range. Mazda finished in second spot with 8,307 sales, followed by Ford with 7,109 sales, while Hyundai just beat out sister brand Kia to finish fourth with 6,521 sales to Kia’s 6,150.
While the result was pleasing news for dealers around the country, FCAI CEO Tony Weber was wary of the fact that a majority of the sales recorded had in fact been ordered months ago.
“During the past twelve months, the issue has been one of securing supply for consumers, however as these pressures ease, we are starting to see a return to more stable market conditions,” said Weber.
“Many of these vehicles were ordered several months ago, so it is important to monitor the broader economic conditions through 2023 and their impact on private and business demand.”
Top 5 models, July 2023
- Ford Ranger – 5,143 sales (up 75.3 per cent on July 2022)
- Toyota Hilux – 4,670 (down 27.5 per cent)
- MG ZS – 3,852 (up 213.4 per cent)
- Tesla Model Y – 3,330
- Toyota RAV 4 – 2,750 (up 21.8 per cent)
Top 5 brands, July 2023
- Toyota – 19,191 vehicle sales
- Mazda – 8,307
- Ford – 7,109
- Hyundai – 6,521
- Kia – 6,150
Source: Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries