In spite of lockdowns and issues with the supply chain, Australians purchased 83,312 new cars in September, an increase of around 21 per cent from last year.

Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory all recorded positive growth greater than 16 per cent for the month. Victoria recorded an increase of 96 per cent, while the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales both recorded a decline.

These figures, released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), represent continuing demand for new vehicles across sectors despite lockdowns and the ongoing impacts of the global microprocessor shortage.

“To see an increase of 21 per cent on 2020 figures is definitely encouraging news. For many manufacturers it is bittersweet with the knowledge of what could have been achieved in a normal trading environment,” said Tony Weber, FCAI Chief Executive Officer.

“These are challenging times, but automotive manufacturers are rising to meet them. Brands are working across their supply chains to deal with microprocessor issues and consumers are embracing online purchasing through click and collect delivery options.”

“In many respects, these figures give the industry great encouragement and excitement for what will be possible in 2022 when lockdowns will hopefully be a thing of the past.”

The Ford Ranger claimed the highest-selling model, recording 4,192 sales. This was followed by the Toyota Hilux (3,635) and the Toyota Corolla (3,487).

Toyota was the market leader in September, followed by Mazda and Ford. Toyota led Mazda with a margin of 13,661 vehicle sales and 16.4 market share points.

The Passenger Vehicle Market experienced a 4.6 per cent increase (811 vehicle sales) over the same month last year; the Sports Utility Market saw a 25.1 per cent increase (8,185 vehicle sales); the Light Commercial Market witnessed a 27 per cent increase (4,263); and the Heavy Commercial Market experienced a 37.5 per cent increases (1,068) versus September 2020.

Top 5 models sold, September 2021:

1. Ford Ranger – 4,129 (up 12.5 per cent from September 2020)
2. Toyota Hi-Lux – 3,635 (up 0.7 per cent)
3. Toyota Corolla – 3,487 (up 138.5 per cent)
4. Toyota RAV 4 – 3,390 (up 39.3 per cent)
5. Toyota Prado – 2,173 (up 165.0 per cent)

Top 5 brands sold, September 2021:

1. Toyota – 20,216 (up 56.3 per cent from September 2020)
2. Mazda – 6,555 (down 6.4 per cent)
3. Ford – 5,759 (up 19.6 per cent)
4. Hyundai – 5,457 (up 3.5 per cent)
5. Kia – 5,155 (up 1.2 per cent)

Source: Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries

5 October 2021