Sydney used car market — where prices are heading in 2026
Prices have softened 8-12% from the 2023 peak. Here's what's selling, what's stuck, and what we expect through the rest of 2026.
APAnika Patel· Market Analyst · ex-Glass's Guide21 May 20266 min read
Used car prices in Sydney have come down from the COVID peak — but unevenly. Some segments are still 30% above 2019; others are now below. Here's the working snapshot for mid-2026.
Headline price moves (vs 2023 peak)
| Segment | Change | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-size SUV petrol (CX-5, RAV4, Sportage) | -8% | Stable, plenty of stock |
| Dual-cab utes (Ranger, HiLux, Triton) | -3% | Demand still strong |
| Small hatch (Corolla, Mazda3, i30) | -12% | Oversupply, buyers shifting to small SUV |
| Used Tesla Model 3/Y | -22% | Compressed by new-model price cuts |
| European prestige sedan (BMW 3, Audi A4) | -15% | Diesel especially weak |
| Hybrid mid-size (RAV4 Hybrid, Camry Hybrid) | +4% | Still scarce, supply-constrained |
What's selling in days
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (any trim) — sub-7 days on market.
- HiLux SR5 4x4 auto, 2020-2022 — sub-10 days.
- MG ZS EV under $20k — sub-14 days, mostly fleet returns.
- BYD Atto 3 under $25k — sub-10 days.
What's stuck
- European diesel sedans 100k+ km — 60+ days, big negotiation room.
- Large sedans (Camry V6, Skoda Superb) — 45+ days.
- Used Tesla Model S/X — 50+ days, prices keep falling.
- Convertibles outside summer — 90+ days through winter.
The 12-month outlook
- 1.Used EV prices have likely bottomed for 2-3 year old Teslas (we're seeing buyer demand return at $30-35k).
- 2.Hybrid premium will persist while Toyota supply remains constrained.
- 3.Dual-cab ute prices will soften as new model BYD Shark, Cannon Alpha and JAC T9 take share.
- 4.Sub-$15k segment will keep tightening — these cars are being scrapped faster than they're being replaced.
Common questions
Should I wait 6 months to buy?
Only if you can. The 'big drop' has already happened for most segments — incremental softening is left, not collapse.
Are interest rates affecting used prices?
Yes — but only for financed buyers. Cash buyers are seeing the best discounts in 5 years.
Lock in your inspection
Book a mobile pre-purchase inspection at the seller's address. Same-day slots across Sydney from $249, with a money-back guarantee.
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