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    Toyota RAV4 tops CarExpert's most popular new cars in September 2026

    Australia's favourite SUV returned to the top of CarExpert's new-car sales rankings last month, as Chinese brands continue to attract strong interest.

    The Toyota RAV4 was the most popular new vehicle purchased through CarExpert in September 2026, climbing from eighth place two months ago to claim the top spot.

    It was followed by the Geely Starray EM-i, which moved up from seventh place in July to second last month, while the Hyundai Kona rounded out the top three.

    The Zeekr 7X placed fourth, ahead of the Toyota Prado, reflecting continued demand for a mix of established favourites and newer electrified models.

    Customers who purchased a new vehicle through CarExpert in September saved an average of $3484.

    A beige 2026 Toyota RAV4 Cruiser SUV seen from the rear quarter, parked on a rooftop car park.

    Most popular new cars bought through CarExpert in September 2026:

    1. Toyota RAV4
    2. Geely Starray EM-i
    3. Hyundai Kona (including Hybrid)
    4. Zeekr 7X
    5. Toyota Prado
    6. Mazda CX-5
    7. Kia Sportage (including Hybrid)
    8. Isuzu D-Max
    9. Isuzu MU-X
    10. Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series

    The results show how quickly buyer preferences can shift, even over a relatively short period.

    A blue 2027 Geely Starray EM-i Inspire SUV driving on a highway, seen from the front three-quarter angle.

    The mid-year best-seller, the Jaecoo J5, was absent from September's leading models, while the RAV4 made the biggest move up the rankings.

    The Geely Starray EM-i was another standout, finishing fourth in customer enquiries and second in terms of completed purchases.

    The Hyundai Kona also performed strongly, moving from sixth place in July to third in September.

    What were Australians looking to buy?

    Not every car attracting strong interest ultimately translates into a sale, and CarExpert's September enquiry data provides another perspective on buyer preferences.

    The Toyota RAV4 generated the most enquiries, followed by the Zeekr 7X, Ford Everest, Geely Starray EM-i and Ford Ranger.

    Hyundai Kona Premium N Line HEV Stills-25

    The Toyota Prado, Chery Tiggo 4, Isuzu MU-X, Isuzu D-Max and Geely EX5 completed the top 10 most enquired-about models.

    While SUVs dominated both lists, there were some notable differences between the models buyers were considering and those they ultimately purchased.

    The Ford Ranger and Everest attracted considerable interest but did not feature among September's best-selling models through CarExpert.

    Conversely, the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-5 performed well in completed sales despite sitting outside the 10 most popular models for enquiries.

    A white 2026 Zeekr 7X electric SUV driving on a road, seen from the front quarter angle.

    Chinese brands also featured prominently, with Zeekr, Geely and Chery represented in the enquiry rankings. Geely's Starray EM-i and the Zeekr 7X both converted that interest into top-five sales positions.

    The figures offer a snapshot of activity through CarExpert's buying service rather than the wider Australian new-vehicle market, but highlight the growing breadth of models Australians are considering. 

    Helping Australians get a better deal

    As mentioned above, CarExpert customers saved an average of $3484 on their new-car purchases in September.

    The savings come through CarExpert's New Car Specialists, who work with dealers to source competitive pricing, check vehicle availability and help customers manage the buying process.

    2026-Toyota-Prado-Kakadu-14

    CarExpert's buying service was also recently recognised in the 2026 FDI Insider Awards, in which it was named Best New Car Advisory & Buying Service – Australia.

    The recognition follows CarExpert's expansion beyond automotive news, reviews and research, into helping Australians purchase their next vehicle.

    With more than 1200 dealers in its network, CarExpert can compare offers and availability across dealerships, with one New Car Specialist supporting the customer through to delivery.

    The service is free for car buyers who purchase their vehicle directly from the supplying dealership. Read more about how we can help you buy here.

    Whether it's an established favourite such as the Toyota RAV4 or one of the growing number of new entrants into the Australian market, CarExpert helps buyers find a competitive deal without having to contact multiple dealerships themselves. Click here to see what deal we can find you today.

    MORE: Top 10 most popular new cars bought through CarExpert in July 2026
    MORE: CarExpert named Best New Car Advisory & Buying Service – Australia
    MORE: How CarExpert helps you buy a new car

    Ready to find the right new car at a great deal?

    Research cars in our Showroom, compare your options or let our New Car Specialists do the running around to find you a great deal.

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