Which Used Cars Hold Their Value the Best in Australia’s Buyer’s Market?

In Australia’s current used car market, prices are fluctuating, and sales are taking longer, creating opportunities for savvy buyers. While supply grows and values drop, some used cars retain their worth better than others. Here’s a look at the models that continue to hold strong resale values despite the shifts in the market.

1. Toyota – The Consistent Performer

Toyota’s reputation for reliability has earned it a top spot in the used car market. Models like the Toyota Corolla, Camry, LandCruiser, and Prado retain a significant portion of their original value, often holding up to 95% of their retail price within two to four years. Known for durability, these vehicles consistently rank as favorites among buyers across age groups. Toyota’s focus on quality gives it the “bulletproof” reputation that makes its cars highly desirable in the second-hand market.

2. Off-Road SUVs – Value in Adventure

SUVs remain the top choice for Australians, particularly off-road-capable models like the Toyota LandCruiser, Prado, Fortuner, and the Nissan Patrol. These 4WD vehicles retain between 94% and 98% of their initial value after two to four years, making them solid investments for used car buyers. In some cases, high-demand models like the Land Rover Defender and Suzuki Jimny are even surpassing their original retail prices, demonstrating how market demand can drive resale value for popular off-road SUVs.

3. Cars with High Demand and Long Waitlists

When demand for new cars exceeds supply, waitlisted models often achieve strong resale prices on the second-hand market. This trend is especially visible in the Suzuki Jimny, which has a retained value of 113%, and Toyota’s Yaris Cross and Corolla Cross, both of which also boast high resale values. Extended waiting periods for these vehicles in the new car market encourage buyers to turn to used options, even at prices above the original MSRP.

4. Small Passenger Cars – A Steady Choice

Smaller cars like sedans and hatchbacks remain popular in Australia, with models like the Kia Picanto, Mazda 2, Toyota Corolla, and Hyundai i30 leading the segment. Despite the SUV craze, these compact models have strong resale value and sell relatively quickly on the used market. Typically, they retain about 85% of their original value and sell within 34 to 42 days, which is faster than many popular used SUVs.

5. Hybrid Vehicles – Fuel Efficiency Drives Demand

With rising fuel prices and stricter emissions standards, more Australians are favoring hybrids in the used car market. According to Moody’s Analytics, hybrid sales have climbed by 3.4% recently, with hybrids retaining more value due to their fuel efficiency and lighter build. As fuel costs remain high, hybrid models are likely to continue attracting buyers in both the new and second-hand markets.

6. Two-to-Four-Year-Old Vehicles – The Sweet Spot

Cars in the two-to-four-year range tend to hold their value better than older models. For example, a Toyota LandCruiser from 2022 could retain up to 98% of its retail value. Vehicles within this age range also benefit from fewer repairs and lower mileage, making them appealing to buyers. Meanwhile, older models, particularly those released before the newest versions, generally lose value more quickly.

7. Dual-Cab Utes – The Aussie Favorite

While data suggests heavier vehicles may be depreciating, utes are still highly popular. The Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, for instance, are top sellers in both new and used markets, with thousands sold each month. The Mitsubishi Triton has also gained traction recently, with a 6.4% increase in second-hand sales in September. Although they may not have the highest value retention, utes consistently rank among the most sold used vehicles in Australia.

Final Thoughts

In a market increasingly favoring buyers, used cars with strong demand, reliability, and efficient designs are retaining the most value. Toyota’s durable lineup, off-road-ready SUVs, and fuel-efficient hybrids are proving to be the best options for holding resale value in Australia. With careful research, buyers can find quality, high-demand used vehicles that keep their worth in this changing market.