When it comes to the second-hand car market, what were the models that people most gravitated towards in 2018?
Websites carsales.com.au and RedBook combined to crunch the data and determine the most popular second-hand cars across a broad range of categories.
The two sites put 2012 as the age ceiling on the data (as more recent model vehicles are popular, but also close to new) and these are the models that turned out to be the most in demand for those in the market for a second-hand vehicle….
Small passenger car category
2012 Hyundai i30 Active hatch GD series
The first i30 hit the market in 2007 and received wide acclaim for Hyundai's new level of commitment to the small car field. The year 2012 saw the model change to a longer, wider and lower model, which improved the formula on what was already an exceptional small car.
Medium passenger car category
2012 Mazda 6 Sports sedan GJ series
This is a category that was struggling a decade ago, but it’s starting to come back into the light. A wide range of packed in features and big fuel-savings claims make this vehicle not only a looker but a performer as well.
Large passenger car category
2012 Holden Commodore SV6 Z series sedan VE series II
With a snarling engine that is only bettered by the V8 Commodore models and the first six-speed gear stick seen in the V6 Commodore, what is not to love?
Small SUV category
2012 Hyundai ix35 Elite wagon LM2 series
Deceptively large for a 'small' SUV, the ix35 has played a critical role in the rise of this category across the board. Plenty of head and leg room make this a perfect family vehicle at an affordable price point.
Medium SUV category
2012 Mazda CX-5 Maxx wagon KE series
When this model was released, it laid down a serious challenge to the on-road runners in the compact SUV category. It’s not as great off-road, but you can get the more expensive diesel model which packs more punch.
Large SUV category
2012 Toyota LandCruiser Prado GXL wagon KDJ150R series
A perfect all-rounder capable of trips to the bush and city driving, this is 4WD action for those not wanting to go all out on the more expensive models.
Sports car category
2012 Mazda MX-5 Touring soft-top NC series 2
For affordable sports luxury, the MX-5 has long been a desirable option. This model is super reliable, extremely well rated and delivers a pure driving experience.
Luxury car category
2012 Land Rover Range Rover Vogue TDV8 wagon L322 series
The V8 diesel model makes up 70 percent of the sales of this range and packs as much power as it does features.
Dual-cab ute category
2012 Ford Ranger XLT 4x4 double-cab utility PX series
This one’s a contentious category in Australia, with dual-cabs becoming more and more popular in recent years. The 2012 Ranger fuses the best parts of an SUV with load-carrying capabilities. It looks great and is up to the hard yakka as well.
Off-road 4x4 category
2012 Toyota LandCruiser GXL wagon VDJ200R series
For those looking to head off-the-beaten track, this model will deliver smooth and quiet city driving while standing up to the rugged Aussie outback with ease.