When it comes to buying a car, many Kiwis opt for used vehicles. Whether you’re after something practical for city driving, a rugged 4×4 for weekend adventures, or an eco-friendly option to reduce your carbon footprint, the used car market offers a wide range of choices.
Here’s a look at the top 5 used cars that are popular across the country.
Best Hatchback: Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is a staple in the New Zealand automotive market, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance. As a compact sedan, it offers a comfortable ride with a well-designed interior, making it perfect for both city commutes and long drives. With advanced safety features and Toyota’s renowned durability, the Corolla is an excellent choice for individuals and families looking for a dependable and economical vehicle.
Key Features:
- Fuel-efficient 1.8L petrol engine
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Newer cars are equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, reversing camera and additional Toyota Safety features.
Average Second-Hand Price: $2,000 – $25,000
Best First Car: Mazda Demio (Mazda 2)
The Mazda 2 is a compact hatchback that combines style, efficiency, and fun in one package. Perfect for urban environments, it offers nimble handling and an impressive fuel economy that Kiwi drivers will appreciate. Despite its small size, the Mazda 2 provides a surprisingly spacious interior with high-quality finishes, making it a pleasure to drive every day. With Mazda’s reputation for reliability and the car’s affordable price point, the Mazda 2 is an ideal choice for first-time buyers and city drivers.
Key Features:
- Fuel-efficient 1.5L petrol engine
- Stylish exterior design
- Easy maneuverability in tight urban spaces
- Modern interior with quality finishes
- Standard safety features like ABS and airbags. Modern cars come equipped with advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and pre-collision braking.
Average Second-Hand Price: $2,000 – $18,000
Best Station Wagon: Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a popular choice in New Zealand for those who need a vehicle that can handle a bit of everything. Known for its All-wheel-Drive system, the Outback is built to tackle the diverse terrains of New Zealand, from gravel roads to snowy mountains. It offers a roomy interior with ample cargo space, making it perfect for family road trips and outdoor adventures. The Outback’s ruggedness, combined with Subaru’s commitment to safety, makes it a go-to vehicle for those who live an active lifestyle.
Key Features:
- Comfortable seating with premium materials
- All-wheel drive for superior traction
- Spacious interior with a large cargo area
- High ground clearance for off-road capability
- Newer cars equipped with advanced safety features such as Driver Assist technology (adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, pre-collision braking)
Average Second-Hand Price: $5,000 – $30,000
Best Hybrid: Toyota Aqua
The Toyota Aqua, also known as the Toyota Prius C in some markets, is a compact car that excels in fuel efficiency. With its hybrid engine, the Aqua offers outstanding mileage, making it a top choice for those looking to save on fuel costs. Despite its small size, the Aqua provides ample interior space and practical features, making it ideal for city driving and daily commutes. Renowned for its reliability, the Toyota Aqua is a smart and economical option for environmentally conscious drivers.
Key Features:
- Hybrid powertrain for exceptional fuel efficiency
- Compact design, perfect for city driving
- Spacious interior with a surprisingly large cargo area
- Low emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice
- Newer models are equipped with modern info entertainment and Toyota Safety Sense (depending on the model year)
Average Second-Hand Price: $6,000 – $18,000
Best Ute: Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is a favourite among Kiwi drivers, particularly for those needing a vehicle that can handle both work and play. This versatile ute is known for its rugged build, powerful engine options, and impressive towing capacity. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling off-road terrain, the Ranger delivers a smooth and controlled ride. It’s also packed with modern tech features, making it as smart as it is tough, making it a top pick for tradies and adventurers alike.
Key Features:
- Powerful diesel engine options
- An impressive towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg
- Robust 4WD system for off-road capability
- Modern vehicles are equipped with updated features including, added safety features, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Average Second-Hand Price: $10,000 – $60,000
Used Car Comparison
| Car Model | Fuel Efficiency (L/100km) | Seating Capacity | Cargo Space (L) | Engine Size (L) | AWD/4WD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | 6.0 | 5 | 470 | 1.8 | No |
| Mazda Demio | 5.0 | 5 | 250 | 1.5 | No |
| Subaru Outback | 7.3 | 5 | 920 | 2.4 – 2.5 | Yes |
| Toyota Aqua | 5.5 | 5 | 260 | 1.5 (Hybrid) | No |
| Ford Ranger | 8-9 | 5 | 1,180 (tray) | 2-3L | Yes |
Final Thoughts
When choosing a used car, it’s essential to consider your needs—whether it’s city driving, weekend adventures, or something in between. The Toyota Corolla, Mazda Demio, Subaru Outback, Toyota Aqua, and Ford Ranger, each offer distinct advantages. Whichever model you choose, these vehicles are renowned for their reliability and performance, making them excellent choices for Kiwi drivers.
