Upcoming Cars Australia

The Battle of the Mid-Size Family SUVs

The mid-size SUV segment remains the sweet spot for Australian families. It is the most contested slice of the market, and some of the country's best-selling vehicles are getting ground-up updates.

Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 PHEV

The Toyota RAV4 has been the default choice for Aussie families for years, with hybrid variants dominating sales charts. An all-new generation reworks the platform, offering updated interior tech and an advanced safety package. While standard hybrid models land first, the big news is the arrival of the RAV4 PHEV. Positioned as a premium option above the self-charging hybrid, it offers a substantial electric-only driving range for daily school runs while retaining a petrol engine for long holiday road trips.

Mazda CX-5 and CX-6e

Mazda is responding directly to changing buyer habits by refreshing its iconic CX-5. Alongside the traditional favourite, Mazda is introducing the CX-6e electric sedan and expanding its electrified footprint with plug-in hybrid versions of its larger family haulers, the CX-70 and CX-90. This strategy ensures buyers have a direct alternative to emerging high-tech rivals.

GWM Haval H7 and Jolion Max

GWM is rapidly expanding its footprint with nine new models or variants slated for local release. Leading this push is the all-new Haval H7, alongside the Jolion Max. Expected to land in both plug-in hybrid and pure battery-electric forms, the Jolion Max sits comfortably between the compact Jolion and the mid-sized H6, targeting buyers who want maximum features without a premium price tag.

Highly Anticipated New SUVs Coming to Australia

From affordable city crossovers to high-end luxury people movers, the wave of new SUVs coming to Australia offers something for every budget.

XPeng Mona L03

A fresh challenger brand is making its presence felt with the XPeng Mona L03. This mid-size coupe-SUV features a minimalist cabin and a sleek profile reminiscent of premium European fastbacks. With a highly competitive starting price in overseas markets and an impressive claimed electric range, the Mona L03 is positioned to challenge established electric options like the Geely EX5 and the popular BYD Atto 3.

BYD Atto 3 MkII / Atto 5

BYD has seen stellar growth in Australia, moving into clear contention near the top of the sales charts. The next-generation evolution of their popular electric SUV grows in size and sophistication. Sporting a larger battery pack capable of pushing range toward the 600km mark in top-tier trims, it may adopt the Atto 5 badge locally to reflect its step up in market positioning.

Jaecoo J5 and J8 SHS

Chery’s sub-brand Jaecoo is strengthening its presence. The upcoming Jaecoo J5 hybrid pairs a efficient 1.5-litre petrol engine with a small battery pack, offering a direct competitor to the Hyundai Kona Hybrid and Toyota Corolla Cross. For larger families, the tri-motor plug-in hybrid Jaecoo J8 SHS Summit arrives as a direct competitor to the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, delivering strong performance and all-wheel-drive capability.

Kia Seltos Hybrid

Kia is shifting its popular Seltos compact SUV into a hybrid-only offering for its upcoming update. Utilising a fuel-sipping 1.6-litre hybrid system shared with the Hyundai Kona, the front-wheel-drive Seltos aims to deliver engaging driving dynamics alongside low running costs, making it an ideal urban commuter.

Utes and Hardcore Four-Wheel Drives Take an Electrified Step

Aussie tradies and regional drivers rely heavily on dual-cab utes and rugged off-roaders. The upcoming line-up proves that even the toughest vehicles on our roads are embracing electrification.

BYD Shark 6 Expansions

The plug-in hybrid BYD Shark 6 has already won over a new breed of local tradies. To build on this momentum, BYD is adding a dedicated cab-chassis variant and a heavy-duty variant boasting a 3500kg towing capacity, directly addressing the key requirements of Australian fleet and commercial buyers.

Ford Ranger and Everest Updates

Ford is keeping its highly successful Ranger and Everest line-up fresh with structural updates. While the Ranger PHEV brings plug-in utility to the workspace, the broader MY26.5 updates across the diesel and petrol line-ups ensure Australia’s top-selling vehicle platform stays ahead of a growing field of high-tech challengers.

Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series Hybrid

The iconic LandCruiser is embracing hybrid technology. The upcoming update introduces the 'iForce Max' twin-turbo V6 petrol hybrid powertrain to the flagship Sahara ZX and GR Sport grades. Delivering massive power and torque figures, it combines legendary off-road capability with modern engineering efficiency.

Nissan Terrano PHEV

Nissan is introducing a medium-sized off-road wagon called the Terrano. Based on the tough body-on-frame construction of the upcoming Frontier Pro ute, this rugged 4WD sits just below the full-sized Patrol. It brings plug-in hybrid technology to the segment, promising a highly capable alternative to traditional diesel four-wheel drives.

Affordable Electric Hatchbacks and New Car Models

For buyers who prefer a traditional passenger car or a compact footprint, several notable new car models are on the horizon.

Leapmotor B05

Leapmotor is set to shake up the budget-friendly electric segment with the B05. This rear-wheel-drive electric hatchback is aimed directly at affordable segment benchmarks like the MG4. With sharp entry pricing, it lowers the barrier to entry for buyers looking to transition into full electric ownership.

Hyundai Ioniq 3

Slightly smaller than the highly regarded EV3, the Hyundai Ioniq 3 is a stylish electric hatchback targeting urban buyers. Expected to offer a competitive driving range and a roomy, practical interior, this model will play an important role in making the brand’s dedicated EV line-up accessible to a broader audience.

Why Novated Leasing and Smart Financing Matter Right Now

With an unprecedented variety of new car models hitting Australian showrooms, choosing how to fund your next vehicle is just as important as choosing the latest car itself. Rising living costs mean more buyers are evaluating total ownership expenses before signing on the dotted line.

For individuals looking at electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids, current federal tax incentives provide a distinct financial advantage. The Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption for eligible zero and low-emission vehicles makes salary packaging an incredibly cost-effective way to secure an upcoming vehicle.

Using a novated lease allows you to pay for the car and all its running costs—including fuel or electricity, insurance, registration, and servicing—using a combination of pre-tax and post-tax salary. This can significantly lower your taxable income while removing the hassle of managing separate vehicle expenses.

Before committing to any upcoming cars Australia has on offer, it is highly recommended to use a local novated lease calculator. Comparing traditional car finance against a salary package helps ensure you maximise your disposable income while driving a safer, more efficient modern vehicle.

Ready to see how much you could save on the latest car models? Contact our expert team today for a clear, obligation-free quote tailored to your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new Toyota RAV4 PHEV be available in Australia?

The new-generation Toyota RAV4 is arriving in local showrooms, with the highly anticipated plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant scheduled to touch down shortly after. Check with your local dealer for specific delivery timelines and allocations.

Are plug-in hybrid utes eligible for the FBT exemption?

Yes, eligible plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), including incoming dual-cab options under the luxury car tax threshold for fuel-efficient vehicles, can qualify for federal Fringe Benefits Tax incentives, making them highly attractive options for salary packaging.

What is the difference between a hybrid and a range-extender vehicle (EREV)?

A standard hybrid combines a petrol engine and an electric motor to drive the wheels together or independently. A range-extender vehicle uses its petrol engine solely as an onboard generator to charge the battery, while an electric motor exclusively drives the wheels, providing a consistent electric vehicle driving feel over longer distances.

Should I buy a current model car or wait for the upcoming car models?

If your current vehicle meets your needs, waiting can give you access to significantly improved safety tech, better fuel efficiency, and modern infotainment. However, if you need a vehicle immediately, dealers often discount outgoing stock to clear showroom space ahead of major new arrivals.