The Best Second Hand Cars in Australia

Second hand cars outsell new cars by almost 2 to 1 and the used car market in Australia is projected to reach $53.87 billion by 2027. With the evergreen and growing popularity of used cars, no wonder the search volume for “best second hand cars” on Google is so high.

Determining what the best used car is depends on your preference, taste, lifestyle and budget. Nevertheless, it’s useful to know which brands are the most popular as well as which second hand cars automotive publications rate as good. We’ve rounded them up below.

Best used cars by numbers

First off, let’s look at the best second hand cars in Australia by popularity.

According to Drive.com, the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hi-Lux were the most-sold second hand cars in Australia last year. They were also the most popular new cars sold, ahead of other new-car favourites including the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai i30. 65,938  second hand Ford Rangers and 65,852 Hi-Luxes changed hands last year.

Aussies love these utes due to their versatility, durability, and performance. Both vehicles offer robust off-road traits suited to our varied and often challenging terrains, alongside comfortable interiors that make them great for daily use.

They cater well to our outdoor activities and the need for reliable work vehicles. Additionally, their strong resale values, extensive dealer networks, and reputation for reliability contribute to their popularity. No wonder they’re considered some of the best second hand cars in Australia.

Best second hand car by value-retention

If we’re looking at the best used cars by how well they retain their value, in others words how good their resale value is, then several contenders enter the fray.

For cars between two and four years old, the Suzuki Jimny leads with an exceptional average value retention of 135.2%, followed by models like the Toyota Yaris Cross, Toyota Yaris, Toyota LandCruiser, and Honda Jazz, all showing more than 100% value retention. This shows a strong demand for these models, outstripping supply and enabling them to retain or even increase in value over time​​.

When it comes to cars with the best resale value in 2023, the Nissan Leaf tops the list with an average value retention of 81.4%, closely followed by the Tesla Model 3 at 81.3%, and the Toyota RAV4 and Suzuki Ignis, both at 80.9%. Other notable mentions include the Hyundai Sonata, Toyota HiLux, Isuzu MU-X, Toyota C-HR, Mazda CX-9, and Skoda Kamiq​​.

Best second hand cars in Australia according to CarSales.co.za

CarSales.com.au’s annual best second hand car roundup relies on RedBook data and a panel of expert judges to decide on who makes the list. Below were their category winners this year:

Critics highlighted its powertrain and chassis tuning, emphasizing the blend of efficiency and driving pleasure.

Medium car: 2016 Skoda Octavia RS 230 wagon
Praised for its quality and practical design, this model combines performance with everyday usability.

Large car: 2016 Holden Commodore VFII SS-V Redline Sportwagon
Noted for its driving enjoyment and character, it offers a thrilling ride without sacrificing space and comfort.

Small SUV: 2016 Mazda CX-3 Akari turbo-diesel AWD
Recognized as one of the original small SUVs that continues to stand out for its quality and driving dynamics.

Medium SUV: 2016 Mazda CX-5 Akera turbo-diesel AWD
Mentioned for its sophistication and strong standing among medium SUVs, balancing performance and luxury.

Large SUV: 2016 Mazda CX-9 Azami
Chosen for its family-friendly features and efficient turbo-four power, making it a top pick for large families.

Sports car: 2016 Toyota 86 GTS
Recommended for its fun and practicality, offering an engaging driving experience that’s also daily-driver friendly.

Luxury car: 2016 Porsche Panamera Turbo S
Admired for its unmatched performance and luxury, setting a high bar for what a luxury sports sedan can be.

Dual-cab ute: 2016 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 3.2-litre 4×4 Dual-Cab Utility
Appreciated for its drivability and strong engine, it’s a versatile pick for both work and leisure.

Off-road 4×4: 2016 Toyota LandCruiser Prado Kakadu
FavoUred for its reliability and quality, it remains a top choice for off-road enthusiasts and families alike.

Best second hand cars in Australia according to CarSales.com

Racv.com.au took a slightly different direction with their list of 7 affordable and underrated used cars to buy. Their picks included less popular models (you’ll see no Toyotas on this list) and more out of the box options

The benefit is that by buying a model that’s no longer sold or a brand that no longer exists, it helps to keep the price down. Here are four picks from their list:

Best used luxury passenger vehicle: The Jaguar XF

The large luxury passenger vehicle market has seen a decline in sales, with SUVs overtaking sedans like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series.

However, the Jaguar XF, particularly the second generation launched in Australia in 2015, emerges as a compelling used car bargain, offering sleek styling, a luxurious leather interior, and enjoyable driving dynamics.

Despite never achieving high sales, its rarity adds to its appeal, with 2016 models featuring four-cylinder turbocharged engines available for under $30,000, according to Redbook. The 2021 update further enhanced its appeal with a styling overhaul and updated interior features, making higher-spec models like the supercharged V6 more expensive but also more desirable.

Best used large/medium passenger vehicle: Mazda 6

Interest in the medium/large passenger car segment in Australia has radially dipped in recent years. The Mazda6 is in this bracket, and it’s demand currently isn’t outstripping its supply. This means Mazda6 prices have stayed under control.

Although not an SUV, the Mada6 is good looking, fun to drive and comfortable to ride in. According to Red Book sales, you can get a 2 .5-litre naturally-aspirated Mazda6 sedan for as low as $20K.

Best used small passenger vehicle: Holden Astra

High pricing and the limited availability of crucial safety features hampered the Holden Astra’s market performance, even though it was mechanically competitive with small car leaders like the Toyota Corolla and Mazda3.

However, with prices for older models starting below $10,000 and up to $15,000 for newer, lower mileage examples, plus nationwide service and parts backup guaranteed by law, the Holden Astra stands out as an underrated and economically wise choice for buyers looking for the best second hand cars in Australia.

Used luxury SUV: BMW X4

The BMW X4, a part of the newer trend of SUVs designed with a coupe-like appearance, combines distinctive looks and luxury with a slight compromise in practicality, often resulting in a higher price tag compared to more traditional SUV models.

However, Redbook’s experts have singled out the first-generation X4, available from 2014 to 2017, as a value purchase. Drawing from the BMW X3, it features an array of potent drivetrains and luxury options, with prices ranging from under $40,000 to around $50,000 for later models, making it a compelling second hand car in Australia option for those seeking a blend of style, performance, and luxury at a more accessible price point.

Insure your new or second hand car

Whether its brand spanking new or on the list of best second hand cars in Australia, PD Insurance is here to offer award-winning, value rich comprehensive car insurance with plenty of benefits.

Insurance means if you have an accident or your car’s stolen or damaged, you’re covered for repairs and/or replacement. Sounds worthwhile, right? Click below to get started with a quote.