Australia’s most popular Small Cars

Rounding out our series of the most popular cars in Australia, today we are going to be looking at the most popular small cars in the Australian Market.

But first, let's take you back. It’s one of the most exciting times of our life, buying our first car. For many the go to choice is a small compact car. Sure, we all know the sheer dominance of 4x4s and the surge in SUV sales but for many first time car buyers and those looking for an alternative to the larger vehicle types, small cars are a great option.

When you think of the dominance of the much larger vehicle types many would think the small cars would struggle to compete. However in 2020, 3 of the top 10 selling cars in Australia were small compact cars, and that says something!

For any Australian car buyers looking for a small compact car there are some phenomenal options available to you. From the Toyota Corolla to the Hyundai I30 and the Mercedes A-Class there are some great options available to you no matter your budget.

Like anything, the more choice there is, the harder the decision is to make. Shop for Cars has put together a guide of the most popular small cars in Australia and some of the features that come along with them.

What are the most popular Small Cars in Australia?

Even with the dominance of the 4X4 and SUV range, the small compact cars punch well above their weight and sales figures continue to grow year-on-year.

Offering car buyers, a cheaper and more fuel-efficient alternative to the larger vehicle types, it’s no wonder why many Australians are converting to a smaller compact cars.

In 2020, Small Cars claimed 22.4% of total sales numbers – proving Australians are shifting to more sustainable compact cars

Here’s how they ranked:

1. Toyota Corolla: 45,176
2. Hyundai i30: 20,734
3. Kia Cerato: 17,559
4. Mazda 3: 14,663
5. Volkswagen Golf: 10,012
6. Honda Civic: 7194
7. Mercedes Benz A-Class: 6054

All statistics referenced from CarsGuide statistics*

Surprise, Surprise! Another Toyota model topping the charts of a vehicle category. The Toyota Corolla has long been the go to choice for Australians looking for either their first car or an alternative to other car options.

For the last 6 years, the Toyota Corolla has led the way in this category and sits comfortably in the number 4 position of the most popular cars in the country. Following the Corolla, we see highly popular models the Hyundai i30 and the Mazda 3 and a little bit further down we start to see the growth of the European ranges - the Volkswagen Golf and Mercedes Benz A-Class.

Toyota Corolla

The undisputed king of the small car category, the Toyota Corolla has long been the go-to choice for Australian motorists and it shows no signs of slowing down. 

The Toyota Corolla comes in a small sized Hatchback, Sport, and Hybrid option. Packed with a 1.6 litre engine and a surprising torque of 126 pounds, it’s no surprise why the Corolla has sold over 1 million units since inception.

If you are looking for a Corolla expect to pay between $21,000 and $37,000 depending on year and condition.

Hyundai i30

A fast-growing compact car is the Hyundai i30. One of the cornerstones in the Hyundai fleet, the i30 is a great choice for any Australians looking for a small compact car. Still sitting at half the amount of sold Corolla units, the Hyundai i30 is growing year on year and also shows no signs of slowing.

The i30 comes with a 1.6L engine, amazing interior space and Australian road suspension tuning. To put things into perspective, the Hyundai I30 won Car of the year in its debut year. It’s certainly a great choice for Australian car buyers.

Hyundai i30 starts from $21,000 and goes all the way up to $52,000 for the most expensive version on offer.

Kia Cerato

One of Kia’s best! The Cerato is another compact car that is fast growing in popularity with Australian car buyers. Only slightly trailing the i30, it wouldn’t shock anyone to think it can’t take the number 2 position in 2021.

The Kia Cerato also comes with a 1.6 litre turbo engine and offers buyers a smooth and safe drive with reversing camera parking guidelines, front and rear sensors and an autonomous emergency braking system that prevents collisions.

Prices for a Kia Cerato starts at $19,000 and goes all the way up to $36,000 for the top-of-the-line model.

Mazda 3

A staple of the Australian Motor Industry, the Mazda 3 is a proven top choice for Australian motorists. The amount of people who get this stunner for their first car will shock you! You probably even know someone who has! 

The Mazda 3 is in its fourth generation and offers Australian motorists a comfortable, spacious drive with the choice of petrol or hybrid options. The Mazda 3 will continue to be a top performer in this market for a long time.

Prices for a Mazda 3 start at $20,000 and go all the way up to $45,000.

Volkswagen Golf

A rapid rising performer in the small car category is the Volkswagen Golf. In the last 18 months we have seen the Volkswagen Golf explode in Australia. To put things into perspective the Volkswagen Golf has sold more than 30 million models worldwide – so they are definitely doing something right!

The Volkswagen Golf offers a mix of both prestige and comfortability. The Golf can fit 4 passengers comfortably and offers a smooth drive with enhanced safety from previous models.

If you are looking for a Volkswagen Golf expect to pay anywhere between $25,000 and $60,000.

Honda Civic

Following the Volkswagen Golf is the Honda Civic. The Honda Civic is a constant favourite in Australia. Since 1973 the Honda Civic has sold almost 500,000 units. Packed with petrol powered front wheel drive and a brand-new design, the Civic is a proven winner for Australian motorists.

Prices for Honda Civics start at $33,000 and go all the way up to $67,000.

Mercedes A-Class

For those of you looking the top of prestige look no further than the Mercedes A-Class. One of the best performing prestige cars on the market many Australians are choosing this quality car over others. Year on year growth of the A-class has been breath-taking and will only continue in the coming years.

The A-Class gives drivers the option of Manual and Automatic sports transmission, AWD, Navigation systems, optimum safety systems, leather seats and a sunroof.

In terms of price if you are looking for a Mercedes A-class expect to pay between $47,000 and $95,000.

Final Word,

For Australian motorists looking for a small compact car, there are so many great options available to you. Like everything different brand fluctuate in price and do offer better alternatives.

We hope you enjoyed reading this article. To read more articles like this, please visit the Shop for Cars latest news page here.

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DISCLAIMER: This is all based on opinion please research and consult with all relevant parties to make the best buying decision.