The Best Used Cars in Australia 2025

Why Buying Affordable Second Hand Cars Could Be the Smartest Move You’ll Make

Let’s be real – new cars are great, but the price you pay for that new-car smell? Not so much.

If you’re a smart buyer, you know the best value often lives in the used car market. Why? Because the best second hand cars have already done their biggest depreciation drop. You get more for your money, often with the same features and none of the early-year value loss.

Australia’s used car scene is packed with affordable, reliable and well-loved models, from compact hatchbacks and family SUVs to utes and hybrids. Whether you’re after a first car, a fuel-efficient commuter or a safe family ride, there’s always a good second hand car to buy that suits your needs. Many drivers search for good second hand cars because they deliver the perfect balance of price, reliability and value. If you’re exploring options in the local market, you’ll find plenty of good second hand cars Australia drivers trust for daily commutes and long road trips alike.

Best Used Cars in Australia by Category

Choosing the best used cars often depends on your lifestyle, budget and driving needs. So instead of listing random models, we’ve grouped them into specific categories — from compact hatchbacks to hybrid heroes and even luxury cruisers. Whether you’re hunting for great used cars that fit everyday life or some of the coolest used cars that stand out on the road, the key is timing your purchase wisely. Knowing the best time to buy a used car in Australia can help you save thousands while still landing a vehicle that matches your needs perfectly.

Best Affordable Second Hand Cars (Compact & Everyday Picks)

Perfect for city driving, solo commuters or first-time buyers.

Toyota Corolla – Australia’s Most Reliable Everyday Car

Ask anyone about affordable second hand cars and the Toyota Corolla will almost always top the list. It’s known for legendary reliability, simple servicing and excellent fuel efficiency especially in the hybrid variants. It’s a no-fuss option that suits students, commuters and small families alike.

Pros of Toyota Corolla:

Outstanding fuel economy
Reliable and low-maintenance
Great resale value

Cons of Toyota Corolla:

Tight rear seat space
Smaller boot compared to rivals

Best Second-Hand SUVs

Ideal for families, road trips or anyone who needs space and safety.

Toyota Prado – A Rugged SUV Built for Aussie Conditions

If you’re looking for a capable SUV that thrives on long road trips or off-road escapes, the Toyota Prado is a top pick. Known for its robust build and impressive off-road credentials, it’s also one of the most sought after used 4WDs thanks to its reliability and space for seven.

Pros of Toyota Prado:

Excellent off-road capability
Durable build and strong resale
Roomy enough for large families

Cons of Toyota Prado:

Can feel dated inside
Ride may be firm on unsealed roads

Subaru Outback – The Adventure-Ready Family Wagon

The Subaru Outback is perfect for families who enjoy outdoor getaways. It offers SUV-like practicality with the driveability of a car, thanks to standard all-wheel drive and rugged engineering. It’s one of the best reliable used cars, known for safety and built to handle Aussie terrain with ease.

Pros of Subaru Outback:

Smooth ride and quiet cabin
All-wheel drive standard
Great balance of space and comfort

Cons of Subaru Outback:

Not as powerful as rivals
Infotainment system can feel dated

Best Used Cars for Family

Safe, spacious and easy to live with, perfect for the school run and beyond.

Toyota C-HR – A Stylish Compact SUV with City Smarts

If design is a big factor, the Toyota C-HR nails it. It’s compact, fuel-efficient and full of safety features. While it’s smaller than other family SUVs, it shines as a commuter or young couple’s car.

Pros Toyota C-HR:

Head-turning exterior
Excellent safety and fuel economy
Reliable hybrid options

Cons Toyota C-HR:

Rear seat is tight for tall passengers
Ride can feel firm on poor roads

Best Used Utes

Built for work, towing and outdoor adventures. These are the best second-hand dual cabs and workhorses.

Toyota Hilux – The Aussie Workhorse That Won’t Quit

When it comes to utes that can take a beating, few can match the Toyota Hilux. It’s tough, reliable and holds its value incredibly well. Whether for work or weekend camping, the Hilux is a smart used car to buy especially for tradies.

Pros of Toyota Hilux:

Extremely durable and trusted
Powerful diesel options
Strong resale value

Cons of Toyota Hilux:

High price even on older models
Ride quality can be firm when unladen

Ford Ranger – A Versatile Ute with Everyday Comfort

If you’re looking for a ute that handles like an SUV, the Ford Ranger is the one to beat. It combines brawn with brains offering towing power and everyday driving ease. Later models are tech-rich, making it feel more premium than your average dual-cab.

Pros of Ford Ranger:

Excellent safety and tech features
Smooth ride and confident handling
Great for work and family use

Cons of Ford Ranger:

Still pricey second-hand
Some trims get expensive to maintain

Best Used Hybrids Cars

Looking for efficiency without range anxiety? These hybrid models offer fuel savings and trusted performance.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – Efficient Family SUV with Big Value

The RAV4 Hybrid is a top pick for those seeking SUV space with hybrid savings. It delivers low running costs and impressive resale value, making it one of the best second hand hybrid SUVs on the market.

Pros of Toyota RAV4 Hybrid:

Excellent fuel economy
Smooth hybrid driving experience
High resale and Toyota dependability

Cons of Toyota RAV4 Hybrid:

Premium pricing even when used
Check hybrid battery warranty coverage

Best Used Cars for Teens: Safe, Affordable and Reliable Picks

Finding the best used cars for teens can feel overwhelming. Parents want safety, affordability and fuel efficiency, while teens want something stylish and fun. Below are three popular options Volkswagen Golf, Suzuki Swift and Hyundai i30 with clear pros and cons so you can make the right choice.

Volkswagen Golf – A Practical Hatchback for Teen Drivers

The Volkswagen Golf has long been a favourite among young drivers thanks to its comfort, build quality, and strong resale value. It’s compact enough for city driving yet spacious enough for school bags and weekend trips.

Pros of Volkswagen Golf for Teens

• Strong Safety Features – Multiple airbags, stability control and solid crash ratings give peace of mind to parents.
• Refined Driving Experience – Smooth handling and responsive steering make it easy for teens to learn confident driving.
• High-Quality Interior – Durable materials and a comfortable cabin feel more premium compared to many other compact hatchbacks.
• Fuel Efficiency – Great mileage for everyday commutes and budget-friendly fuel costs.

Cons of Volkswagen Golf for Teens

• Repair Costs – European parts and servicing can be pricier compared to Japanese or Korean models.
• Insurance Premiums – Sometimes higher than average for young drivers.
• Tech May Vary – Older models might lack modern infotainment or driver assistance systems.

Suzuki Swift – A Budget-Friendly, Fun City Car

The Suzuki Swift is perfect for families looking for an affordable, reliable and nimble hatchback. It’s light, easy to park, and cheap to maintain, ideal for a teenager’s first car.

Pros of Suzuki Swift for Teens

• Affordable Purchase Price – One of the most budget-friendly used cars in its class.
• Low Running Costs – Excellent fuel economy and inexpensive servicing.
• Compact Size – Easy to park and manoeuvre, especially for new drivers.
• Fun to Drive – Sporty feel with light steering makes it enjoyable without being too powerful.

Cons of Suzuki Swift for Teens

• Limited Cabin Space – Rear seat and boot are smaller compared to rivals like the Golf or i30.
• Basic Safety Tech on Older Models – Earlier versions may lack advanced driver-assist features.
• Lower Resale Value – Doesn’t hold value as strongly as European competitors.

Hyundai i30 – A Well-Rounded, Reliable Hatchback

The Hyundai i30 strikes a balance between affordability, reliability and safety. It’s a strong choice for parents who want long-term dependability with lower ownership costs.

Pros of Hyundai i30 for Teens

• Strong Reliability Record – Known for durability and backed by Hyundai’s reputation for dependability.
  
• Spacious Interior – More comfortable for passengers compared to the Swift, with a practical boot.
  
• Advanced Safety Features – Many used i30s come equipped with ABS, multiple airbags and sometimes lane assist or stability control.
  
• Affordable Ownership – Lower insurance and maintenance costs compared to European models.

Cons of Hyundai i30 for Teens

• Less Exciting to Drive – Not as sporty or engaging as the Golf or Swift.
  
• Resale Value – May not retain value as well as the Golf.
  
• Tech Depends on Trim – Entry-level versions can feel plain compared to higher trims.

What Makes a Used Car Truly “Best”?

Before listing models, let’s get clear on what “best used car” really means here:

• Reliability & longevity — a car that won’t break down on you
• Parts & servicing access — common models with wide support
• Low running & ownership cost — fuel efficiency, insurance, maintenance
• Good resale & retained value — so you don’t lose out when you sell
• Transparent history — service records, no hidden accidents, no money owing

By combining these, you get second hand vehicles that perform as close to new as possible minus the first depreciation hit.

What to Check Before You Buy a Used Car

1. Service history & logbook — gaps = red flags
2. PPSR / CarHistory check — to see if it’s stolen, written off or has money owing
3. Independent mechanical inspection — engine, transmission, suspension
4. Battery and (for hybrids) hybrid pack condition
5. Timing belt / chain — whether it’s been changed
6. Past usage — taxi or ride‑share cars often have heavy wear
7. Recalls & known model issues — check brand forums or recall lists

These checks help avoid buying a “lemon.”

Best Time to Buy & Sell Your Used Car

When to Buy used car

Timing matters if you want the best deal on a used car. The smartest times to shop are:

End of financial year or calendar year — Used car dealers push harder to clear stock.
After new model launches — older versions often drop in price.
During dealer clearance events — especially when sales targets need a final boost.

When to Sell Your Used Car

To maximise your return, consider selling:

Before rego renewal is due — saves buyers extra costs and makes your car more appealing.
While the car is still in good condition — with service history and low wear.
Before major servicing or repairs — buyers prefer used cars with fewer upcoming expenses.

How to Sell Your Used Car (and Get a Good Return)

Best Places to Sell Your Used Car

Where you choose to sell can impact both your price and convenience:

Online marketplaces like Carsales, Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace — reach the widest audience.
Used car dealerships — quick and easy, though you may get less.
Car auctions — can deliver fast sales, but prices are less predictable.
SellTheCar — a hassle-free way to sell your used car for cash in Australia, with instant offers and no hidden surprises.

Steps to Maximise Value

Follow these steps to get the best deal when selling your car:

Clean and detail thoroughly — first impressions matter.
Organise paperwork — logbooks, service history and receipts.
Fix minor issues — a quick mechanical check can boost value.
Take high-quality photos — clear, well-lit angles inside and out.
Research prices — set a competitive price based on similar cars.
Write an honest ad — transparency builds trust with buyers.
Finalise paperwork properly — transfer rego and complete a bill of sale.

Key Takeaways: Why Buying (and Selling) Used Cars Makes Sense

While nothing beats that fresh car smell, the smarter financial choice for most Australians is often a best second hand car. The biggest depreciation hit is taken by the first owner, which means you can save thousands by buying a car that’s only a few years old without compromising on safety, tech or reliability. If you’re searching for the best second hand car to buy in Australia, focusing on models with proven safety records, fuel efficiency and low running costs will give you the best long-term value.

From small hatches like the Mazda 3 and Toyota Corolla to rugged SUVs such as the Prado or fuel-efficient hybrids like the Camry Hybrid, there’s something in the used car market for every budget and lifestyle. Add to that the advanced features modern cars now include, and it’s clear that buying used cars is not just about saving money — it’s about unlocking incredible value. Whether you’re searching for top rated used cars, browsing a list of top used cars or simply looking for the best used vehicles that suit your needs, the options are endless. And if you already own one, knowing the best time to sell your used car can help you maximize returns while upgrading to your next ride.

Of course, doing your homework is key: always check service history, run a PPSR report and take the car for a test drive. With the right approach, the best used cars in Australia can deliver years of trouble-free driving.

And when the time comes to upgrade or cash in, SellTheCar offers a simple, hassle-free way to sell your used car in Australia with instant offers, quick turnaround and fair value for your vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Best Used Car in Australia

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