The Australian automotive market in May 2025 showcased a dynamic mix of cars, with utes and SUVs dominating the sales charts, reflecting the nation’s love for rugged utility and versatile family vehicles. According to data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) and the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC), new vehicle deliveries totaled 109,425, down 1.6% from May 2024, marking the ninth decline in 12 months. Despite this dip, May 2025 was the second-best May on record, driven by a surge in electric vehicle (EV) sales (up 10.4% year-on-year to over 10,000 units) and continued demand for practical, high-riding vehicles. The Toyota HiLux reclaimed the top spot, while the Ford Ranger and Toyota RAV4 followed closely, with the Tesla Model Y making a notable climb. Here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 best-selling vehicles in Australia for May 2025, exploring why these models resonate with Aussie buyers.
1. Toyota HiLux (4,952 units, down 13.2% YoY)
The Toyota HiLux, a stalwart in Australia’s automotive landscape, returned to the top of the sales charts in May 2025 for the second consecutive month, a feat not achieved since September 2023. With 4,952 units sold (combining 4×2 and 4×4 variants), the HiLux edged out its rivals despite a 13.2% year-on-year decline. Its enduring appeal lies in its reputation for bulletproof reliability, a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine offering 150kW and 500Nm, and a versatile lineup including Single Cab, Double Cab, and SR5 models. Tradies, farmers, and fleet buyers continue to favor the HiLux for its 3,500kg towing capacity and up to 1,000kg payload, though its decade-old platform is starting to show its age against newer rivals like the Ford Ranger. The promise of a hybrid HiLux by 2026 has sparked interest, but supply constraints and an aging design contributed to the sales drop.
2. Ford Ranger (4,761 units, down 19.5% YoY)
The Ford Ranger, Australia’s best-selling vehicle in 2023 and 2024, took second place with 4,761 units sold, down 19.5% from May 2024. Designed and engineered in Australia, the Ranger remains a favorite for its blend of rugged capability and modern tech. Its 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel (154kW, 500Nm) and 3.0-litre V6 diesel (184kW, 600Nm) options cater to both work and leisure, with a 3,500kg towing capacity and up to 1,000kg payload. The Ranger’s Wildtrak and Raptor variants, with features like SYNC 4 infotainment and off-road tuned suspension, appeal to adventure-seekers, while the upcoming Ranger PHEV (set for late 2025) has generated buzz for its 45km electric range and 6.9kW Pro Power Onboard system. The sales dip reflects a broader market slowdown and increased competition from the BYD Shark 6.
3. Toyota RAV4 (4,003 units, down 27.4% YoY)
The Toyota RAV4, a mid-size SUV, secured third place with 4,003 deliveries, down a significant 27.4% year-on-year. Its hybrid-only lineup (since 2024) offers impressive fuel efficiency (around 4.7L/100km), making it a hit with urban families and eco-conscious buyers. The RAV4’s spacious interior, 580L boot, and advanced safety features like Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 appeal to those seeking practicality and reliability. Despite its strong year-to-date performance (leading the Ford Ranger by just 353 units), the May decline is attributed to anticipation for a 2026 model refresh with a new plug-in hybrid variant and GR Sport flagship. The RAV4’s dominance in New South Wales and other states underscores its urban appeal, though supply challenges and competition from the Mitsubishi Outlander impacted sales.
4. Tesla Model Y (3,580 units, up 122.5% YoY)
The Tesla Model Y surged to fourth place with 3,580 units sold, a remarkable 122.5% increase from May 2024, marking its best result since March 2024. As Australia’s top-selling EV, the Model Y benefited from the updated “Juniper” version, featuring a refreshed design, improved range (up to 560km WLTP), and a 15-inch touchscreen. Its dual-motor AWD variant accelerates from 0–100km/h in 3.7 seconds, appealing to performance enthusiasts, while its 2,100L cargo capacity suits families. The Model Y’s success reflects growing EV adoption (9.2% of May sales), fueled by Tesla’s price cuts (up to $9,500) and improved charging infrastructure. However, its high upfront cost and range anxiety concerns remain barriers for some buyers.
5. Toyota LandCruiser Prado (2,732 units, up 293.5% YoY)
The Toyota LandCruiser Prado soared to fifth with 2,732 units, a staggering 293.5% year-on-year increase, driven by the new J250 model launched in late 2024. This large SUV combines retro-inspired styling with off-road prowess, offering a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel (150kW, 500Nm) and a 3,500kg towing capacity. Its Terrain Management System and 220mm ground clearance make it ideal for outback adventures, while premium trims like the Kakadu appeal to families with features like a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The Prado’s sales surge reflects pent-up demand after a 2024 supply shortage, though its high price (starting around $70,000) may deter budget-conscious buyers. Its strong performance in Western Australia and Tasmania highlights its regional popularity.
6. Mitsubishi Outlander (2,697 units)
The Mitsubishi Outlander, a mid-size SUV, landed in sixth with 2,697 units sold. Its bold styling, flexible seven-seat interior, and optional plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant (offering 84km electric range) resonate with families and eco-conscious buyers. The Outlander’s 2.5-litre petrol engine (135kW, 244Nm) or PHEV powertrain, combined with a 2,400kg towing capacity, balances practicality and efficiency. Its strong showing in South Australia and consistent top-five finishes in prior months (e.g., fourth in March 2025) underscore its appeal. The Outlander’s sales momentum is bolstered by sharp pricing (starting around $40,000) and a polished driving experience, though it faces stiff competition from the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage.
7. BYD Shark 6 (2,680 units)
The BYD Shark 6, a plug-in hybrid ute, made a stunning debut in seventh place with 2,680 units sold in its first full month. As a direct rival to the Ford Ranger PHEV, the Shark 6 offers a 100km electric range, a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol hybrid powertrain (delivering 300kW combined), and a 3,500kg towing capacity. Its modern design, advanced tech (like a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen), and competitive pricing (around $50,000–$60,000) have disrupted the ute segment, appealing to both tradies and lifestyle buyers. The Shark 6’s rapid rise, just four units ahead of the Isuzu D-Max, signals BYD’s growing influence in Australia, with the brand’s overall deliveries up 127% in April 2025.
8. Isuzu D-Max (2,676 units)
The Isuzu D-Max, a dependable workhorse, took eighth place with 2,676 units, down slightly year-on-year. Its 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine (140kW, 450Nm), 3,500kg towing capacity, and up to 1,000kg payload make it a favorite among tradies and rural buyers. Available in SX, LS, and X-Terrain trims, the D-Max offers rugged capability and competitive pricing (starting at $32,700 for the SX 4×2). Its consistent top-10 presence (fourth overall in 2024 with 30,194 units) reflects its reputation for durability, though it faces pressure from newer PHEV utes like the BYD Shark 6. The D-Max’s strong sales in Queensland and Western Australia highlight its regional appeal.
9. Mazda CX-5 (2,512 units)
The Mazda CX-5, a mid-size SUV, secured ninth place with 2,512 units sold. Known for its sleek design and premium interior, the CX-5 offers a 2.5-litre petrol engine (140kW, 252Nm) or a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel (147kW, 440Nm), with a 2,000kg towing capacity. Its refined handling and advanced safety features, like Mazda’s i-Activsense suite, appeal to urban families. Despite a slight sales dip, the CX-5’s consistent top-10 presence (ninth in 2024 with 22,000+ units) reflects its strong brand loyalty. The upcoming 2026 model with hybrid options could boost its performance against rivals like the Toyota RAV4.
10. Hyundai Kona (2,011 units)
Rounding out the top 10, the Hyundai Kona, a small SUV, sold 2,011 units, up 28.4% year-on-year. Its bold design, compact size, and versatile powertrains (1.6-litre turbo-petrol, hybrid, or full EV) cater to city dwellers and young buyers. The Kona Electric’s 400km+ range and the hybrid’s 5.0L/100km efficiency drive its appeal, while features like a 12.3-inch dual-screen display add tech cred. Its strong performance in May (10th place, up from 19th in February) reflects growing demand for affordable, electrified SUVs. Hyundai’s seven-year warranty, confirmed for 2025, further boosts its value proposition.
Market Trends and Insights
The May 2025 top-10 list underscores Australia’s preference for utes and SUVs, which accounted for 79% of new vehicle sales (57% SUVs, 22% utes). The Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger’s dominance reflects the enduring demand for light commercial vehicles, though the BYD Shark 6’s entry signals a shift toward electrified utes. The Tesla Model Y’s surge highlights EV growth, driven by Tesla’s 9.4% sales increase (3,897 units), with the Model Y accounting for 91% of its deliveries. However, the overall market decline (-1.6%) and drops for the top three vehicles (HiLux, Ranger, RAV4) point to economic pressures like high interest rates and cost-of-living concerns.
The rise of the Toyota Prado and BYD Shark 6 reflects new model momentum, while the Mitsubishi Outlander and Hyundai Kona benefit from electrified options. The absence of traditional passenger cars (except the Toyota Corolla in prior months) confirms the shift toward larger vehicles, with SUVs and utes dominating due to their versatility across Australia’s diverse terrain. EV sales, at 9.2% of the market, show resilience despite a 2025 slowdown (down 29.6% Q1), with Tesla, BYD, and MG leading the charge.
Looking Ahead
The top 10 best-selling vehicles in May 2025 paint a vivid picture of Australia’s automotive preferences: practical, high-riding vehicles with a growing appetite for electrified options. The Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger remain titans in the ute segment, but the BYD Shark 6’s debut and the Tesla Model Y’s surge signal a market in transition. SUVs like the Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Mazda CX-5 cater to families, while the Toyota Prado’s off-road appeal resonates with adventurers. As economic challenges persist and new models like the Ford Ranger PHEV and updated Toyota RAV4 loom, the Australian market is poised for further evolution. For the latest updates, check FCAI’s VFACTS reports or follow automotive news on platforms like CarSauce and Drive.