Top 5 Selling Cars in Australia

Each year is host to yet another showcase of magnificent cars; 2012 not being an exception. Though a great number of automobiles delivered outstanding performances throughout the year, there is always that one car that just simply outshines the rest! Let’s take a look at the top five cars that outclassed, outperformed and outsold their competition in Australia. (Note that the number of sold units mentioned in this post were counted from January to September.)


5) Holden Commodore
The Holden Commodore affirms its spot at Number 5 with 2,532 units sold. The six-liter V8 internal combustion engine under the hood of this car is probably its strongest selling point, though its numerous sales can also be attributed to the fact that its price has been slashed remarkably. The Commodore’s exterior offers aesthetic, eye-catching features such as quad tailpipes, a spoiler, and alloy wheels. The interior, which includes an entertainment and navigation system, provides a good amount of space for the entire family. Top of the line models even have options for satellite navigation, and the driving experience that the Holden Commodore delivers is most impressive. A little aggressiveness towards the gas pedal brings about a satisfying growl from the V8 engine. Packed together with sports suspensions and excellent handling, the Commodore proves that it deserves its place at number 5.

4) Toyota Corolla
With a sale count of 3,133, the Corolla holds fast to the Number 4 spot. It’s no longer a mystery why this car has been selling incredibly well throughout the years since it was first released way back in 1966. The 2012 Corolla saw a remarkable cut down on its price tag, making it even more appealing to the eyes of potential buyers. The entry level Ascent version is just shy of the $20,000 margin while the high end Levin ZR model tops it off at around $28,500. Standard features include seven airbags, electronic stability control, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity and six speakers. The exterior is also dressed to impress with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic projector headlights, front fog lights and grille highlights. Under the hood is a 1.8-liter engine with either an automatic CVT or 6-speed gearbox. All in all, the Corolla is a great car that offers a sleek design and comfortable travel.

3) Hyundai i30
Sitting comfortable at the Number 3 spot is the Hyundai i30. With 3,144 units sold, the Korean-manufactured vehicle is poised to dominate the Australian auto market by combining stunning, styling, built-in luxuries. Throughout the cabin are soft touch materials, a touchscreen system with Bluetooth and audio connectivity, cruise control, rear park assist, seven airbags and a multi-function steering wheel. The driving experience that its 1.8-liter engine offers is top notch, giving the driver options to adjust the steering settings into comfort, normal, or sport mode. Higher end models provide additional impressive features such as rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing headlamps, and a proximity key that automatically triggers the side mirrors to unfold and the door handles to illuminate whenever the driver approaches the car. The top of the model variant even offers panoramic sunroofs, making the Hyundai i30 a definite standout.

2) Toyota Hilux
Coming in with a solid figure of 3,479 sold units, the Toyota Hilux lands the Number 2 spot. Backed up by over 40 years of history, the Hilux has made a name for itself as a virtually indestructible machine because of its reliability, toughness, and sturdy frame. It is showcased to be an all-terrain vehicle that’s capable of conquering weather cyclones, steep mountains and scorching deserts, deeming the four-wheel drive pick-up a fit partner for the Australian driver. Humbly equipped with options for a 4-cylinder 2.7 and 3.0-liter engine, or the high end 6-cylinder 4.0-liter variant, the Hilux offers a superb driving experience. As a workhorse, this Toyota is undisputedly reliable.

1) Mazda3
After selling around 4,276 units by the end of September, the Number 1 spot goes to Mazda 3. Australia’s favorite car once again tops the competition as the best-selling car in the country with its overall appeal to the general car buyer. Powered by a 2.0-liter. 4-cylinder engine, the Mazda 3 generates more power than its sedan counterparts. Interior wise, the car is brimmed with high-tech futuristic designs. Soft plastics are extensively used throughout the cabin, giving it a mature feel. Gauges and important buttons are also positioned in a driver-focused zone. Two LCD boxes display basic driving-trip information and audio information. Entertainment for the Mazda 3 is not lackluster at all; iPod/MP3 connectivity is available at the center console for the standard variant. Driving is exceptionally great as it possibly provides the best handling in its class. Cornering and steering the Mazda instills even more confidence into the driver with its good accuracy and feedback. The Mazda 3 simply outclasses every other car in the country and is definitely worthy of its Number 1 spot in sales.
With 2013 just around the corner, one cannot hold back the excitement of all the new innovations the automotive industry will bring forth. So sit back and enjoy the ride!