Some of the top-rated car loans in March 2025

Australia's new vehicle sales experienced a notable decline in February 2025, with a total of 94,993 vehicles sold, marking a 9.6% drop compared to the same month last year. This downturn highlights ongoing consumer hesitation amid persistent cost-of-living pressures.

Market trends and preferences

Despite the overall dip, consumer interest remained strong for SUVs (60.4%)andLight Commercial Vehicles (22.5%). However,passenger vehicle salesfell to just13.5% of total sales, reflecting shifting buyer preferences.

The market for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) also faced a significant challenge. BEVs accounted for only 5.9% of total sales in February 2025, down from 9.6% in the same period last year. While the supply of BEVs has increased, with 88 models now available, consumer demand has declined by 37% compared to early 2024.

Tony Weber, FCAI Chief Executive, expressed concerns regarding the Government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).

“We knew the supply of EVs would increase and there are now 88 models supplied to the Australian market.  However, our grave concern has always been the rate of EV adoption and what assumptions the Government had made in its modeling around consumer demand for EVs in the NVES. This modelling remains secret…”

Although aspirational targets are set, Weber stressed that without stronger consumer demand, achieving these targets remains unlikely. "It is time for the Government to consider the realities faced by consumers," he said.

Top vehicle brands and models

Toyotacontinued to lead the market with18,832vehicles sold in February, followed by Mazda (8,797),Kia (6,707),Ford (6,337), andMitsubishi (6,119).

The most popular models were:

• Toyota RAV4 - 4,405 units
• Ford Ranger - 4,040 units
• Toyota HiLux - 3,616 units
• Toyota Prado - 2,723 units
• Mitsubishi Outlander - 2,385 units

As car sales decline across the country, experts attribute this trend to ongoing cost-of-living pressures. However, those in need of a new vehicle or considering an upgrade can still save money by seeking out the best possible car loan deals.

In addition to comparing car loan options, check if you qualify for any discounts or government incentives that could offer further savings. For example, some lenders provide green car loans, which reward borrowers for choosing environmentally friendly vehicles. If your chosen vehicle meets the criteria, you could benefit from lower interest rates or discounted fees. This not only reduces your car loan costs but also lowers the overall price of your vehicle.

For a quicker and simpler car loan comparison, you could consider using RateCity’s Real Time Ratings™. These simple star ratings reflect the cost and flexibility that each car loan offers at any given time, as they are updated regularly. The top-rated car loans in different categories are ranked on RateCity’s Car Loan Leaderboards, and may be eligible for a RateCity Gold Award.

The top-rated car loans today for those borrowing to buy a new eco-friendly vehicle. Assumes a secured $30,000 loan on a 60-month loan term.

The top-rated car loans today for those borrowing to buy a new vehicle up to two years old. Assumes a secured $30,000 loan on a 60-month loan term.

The top-rated car loans today for those borrowing to buy a used vehicle two years and older. Assumes a secured $20,000 loan on a 36-month loan term.