With the cost of living continuing to climb, being able to afford a new car can seem more difficult than ever. The obvious answer is to find a quality used car for your budget, but if you’re insistent on getting that factory-fresh car and driving it off the dealership lot, there’s still some a fair few cars to choose from, all for under $30k.
| Model | Price | Mileage |
| Kia Picanto Sport manual | $18,390 (EGC) | 5.4 L/100km |
| Hyundai Venue manual | $22,750 (drive-away NSW) | 7 L/100km |
| MG 3 Excite | $23,990 (EGC) | 6.0 L/100km |
| Chery Tiggo 4 Pro Urban | $23,990 (drive-away NSW) | 7.3 L/100km |
| Suzuki Swift Hybrid manual | $24,490 (drive-away NSW) | 3.8 L/100km |
| Kia Stonic S | $25,660 (EGC) | 5.4 L/100km |
| MG ZS Excite | $256,990 (EGC) | 6.7 L/100km |
| GWM Haval Jolion | $26,990 (drive-away NSW) | 8.1 L/100km |
| Mazda 2 G15 Evolve | $26,990 (EGC) | 5.0 L/100km |
| Chery Omoda 5 FX | $27,990 (drive-away NSW) | 6.9 L/100km |
Note:- All prices listed here are correct as per the date of publication.
Car manufacturers are stepping up to meet the demand for budget-friendly models, offering small hatchbacks and compact SUVs that pack in technology, comfort, and safety—without breaking the bank. The 2025 line-up of Australia’s cheapest cars proves that driving something brand new doesn’t have to come at a premium. Here’s a list of the top 10 most affordable cars in Australia, available as fresh stock from dealerships. We’re only considering the pricing for the entry-level variants for this list, but you can explore each model in more detail if it matches your car buying needs.
Kia Picanto Sport manual
| Model | Prices |
| Kia Picanto | $18,390 – $21,790 |
Retaining its crown as Australia’s most affordable new car, the Kia Picanto Sport manual remains a favourite for drivers seeking no-nonsense motoring. With a drive-away price of $21,190, the Picanto has pulled ahead of the MG 3 in the budget car battle (without massive discounts) after the latter’s price hike in 2024. The Picanto offers a compact footprint at 3595mm long, making it ideal for city driving and tight parking spaces.
Under the bonnet is a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 62kW and 122Nm. Drivers can choose between a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission (costs an extra $1,600), depending on preference. It’s far from a powerhouse, but for urban A-to-B journeys, it gets the job done efficiently.
Inside, the Picanto Sport packs plenty of basic comforts with features like an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, height-adjustable driver’s seat, USB-A and USB-C outlets, as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel. It also comes with auto headlamps (halogens), cloth upholstery and 14-inch alloy wheels. By stretching your budget to the Picanto GT-Line, you’d get larger alloys, LED lighting, and a sportier interior.
Kia’s renowned seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty adds long-term peace of mind for buyers on a budget.
Hyundai Venue manual
| Model | Prices |
| 2025 Hyundai Venue | $22,750 – $29,500 |
Hyundai’s smallest SUV offering, the Venue, presents a compelling package for budget-conscious buyers in 2025. With a drive-away price starting from $25,990 (before June 30, 2025), the Venue combines practicality and style in a compact footprint. Positioned as Hyundai’s entry-level vehicle in Australia, it appeals to urban drivers seeking SUV styling without the bulk or price tag of larger models.
All Hyundai Venue variants are equipped with a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, offering 90kW of power and 151Nm of torque. For those preferring a more hands-on drive, a six-speed manual is available at the base trim, while a six-speed automatic is standard across the rest of the range. With a simple yet functional layout, it’s an easy choice for anyone looking for a reliable and economical commuter.
Inside, Hyundai includes standard features such as an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, tilt-and-reach adjustment for the steering wheel, traction modes, and manual AC controls. The Venue is also backed by Hyundai’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, adding peace of mind to an already value-packed SUV.
MG 3 Excite
| Model | Prices |
| MG3 MY25 | $23,990-$29,990 |
The MG 3 Excite may no longer be the cheapest car in the country, but it still offers compelling value, particularly during promotional periods. Currently available for $22,888 drive-away for those who purchase and take delivery before April 30, the MG 3 Excite combines updated styling with practical performance for the everyday commuter.
Powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine delivering 81kW and 142Nm, it’s paired to a CVT for smooth operation in urban traffic. While the hybrid version is available, it starts at a higher $27,990 – making the petrol-only Excite a more attainable option for those prioritising upfront savings.
In terms of feature comforts, the Excite trim gets you auto climate control, mixed seat upholstery, height-adjustable driver’s seat, 10.25-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with 6-speakers plus a subwoofer. However, unlike the Picanto, it only supports wired smartphone mirroring.
MG offers a substantial 10-year, 250,000km warranty across its range, including the MG 3. The package is appealing for those who want a small hatchback with a longer-term coverage and a hint of flair.
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro Urban
| Model | Prices |
| 2025 Chery Tiggo 4 Pro | $23,990 – $26,990 |
For buyers looking to step up from hatchbacks into “SUV” territory, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro Urban presents as a practical alternative. It brings crossover style and a roomy cabin into the affordable car conversation. Having found global success as the Tiggo 5x, its arrival in Australia opens up a new option in the entry-level SUV space.
The Tiggo 4 Pro is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing a healthy 108kW and 210Nm, paired with a CVT that drives the front wheels. Its performance stands out among similarly priced compact SUVs, making it a viable choice for families or those seeking more interior space than a hatch can offer.
Inside, twin 10.25-inch displays form the tech centrepiece, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered as standard. It also gets dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, drive modes, and LED headlights. Backed by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, the Tiggo 4 Pro proves that budget motoring doesn’t always mean going without.
Suzuki Swift Hybrid manual
| Model | Prices |
| 2025 Suzuki Swift Hybrid | $24,490 – $27,990 |
In the world of budget-friendly hybrids, the Suzuki Swift Hybrid emerges as the most affordable choice in the country. This mild-hybrid hatch offers a greener alternative to petrol-only rivals, combining efficiency with fun driving dynamics. Its lightweight body and compact design make it particularly nimble in city environments.
Under the bonnet is a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine assisted by a 12V mild-hybrid system, delivering modest outputs of 60kW and 110Nm. The entry-level version is paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, while higher trims opt for a CVT automatic. Despite the lower power, it is responsive for urban duties.
A key highlight is the inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay with a 9-inch touchscreen, though Android Auto remains wired. You get a fabric interior, no leather wrap for the steering wheel, LED headlamps, heated door mirrors and runs on 15-inch steel wheels instead of alloys. Suzuki covers the Swift with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, making it a strong contender for those wanting affordable hybrid technology without the premium price tag.
Kia Stonic S
| Model | Prices |
| Kia Stonic S Auto FWD MY25 | $25,660 – $31,980 |
The Kia Stonic S enters the 2025 market with a drive-away price of $27,990, and this small SUV is the only other Kia making this list. Designed with young drivers and urban families in mind, the Stonic blends everyday usability with Kia’s characteristic styling and reliability.
Powering the Kia Stonic is a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 74kW and 172Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It might not lead the pack in raw power, but it delivers peppy performance for city and suburban driving. Like the Kia Picanto, the upgrades are mostly cosmetic for the higher GT-Line trim.
Standard features include cloth upholstery, an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, tilt-and-reach adjustment for the steering wheel.. It also has the assurance of Kia’s seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. The Stonic proves to be a practical step up from smaller hatchbacks for those wanting an SUV with solid value.
MG ZS Excite
| Model | Prices |
| 2025 MG ZS MY25 | $25,990 – $36,990 |
The MG ZS continues to be a strong contender in the affordable SUV segment, now starting from $26,990 drive-away for deliveries before April 30, 2025.
Under the bonnet, the entry-level Excite variant uses a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine generating 81kW of power and 140Nm of torque, mated to a CVT. For those seeking extra punch, the turbocharged versions increase performance considerably, while the hybrid variant offers enhanced efficiency with a combined output of up to 158kW and 465Nm.
You do get leather inside the cabin with a digital driver’s display, but this base trim has limited comforts and the rear seat has no recline adjustment. Though it only offers wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with its 8-inch infotainment touchscreen in the Excite trim, the MG ZS makes up for it with a modern design and strong warranty coverage. MG backs the ZS with a 10-year, 250,000km warranty, making it a competitive option in both pricing and long-term support.
GWM Haval Jolion
| Model | Prices |
| 2025 GWM Haval Jolion | $26,990 – $38,990 |
The GWM Haval Jolion Premium has become one of the best value small SUVs in the market, especially with its limited-time drive-away price of $24,990. Previously priced at $26,990, this offer runs until June 30, further reinforcing its place in Australia’s budget car conversation.
A 1.5-litre turbocharged engine delivers 105kW and 210Nm in the base Premium model, with power sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The Jolion range also includes a more powerful petrol and a hybrid option, though these come at a premium.
Smartphone mirroring is wired only for the 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but the Jolion Premium still offers a well-appointed cabin with synthetic leather upholstery and faux carbon fibre details, and spacious interior. GWM includes a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, giving buyers confidence in both quality and long-term support.
Mazda 2 G15 Evolve
| Model | Prices |
| 2025 Mazda 2 G15 | $26,990 – $28,190 |
Rounding out the list is the Mazda 2 G15 Evolve, priced at $30,402 drive-away. While its pricier compared to the others on this list, it remains Mazda’s most affordable offering and brings premium design touches to the compact hatch segment.
Now offered only with a six-speed automatic, the G15 Evolve is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 81kW of power and 142Nm of torque. While it’s not the fastest in its class, the Mazda 2 remains well-balanced and refined on the road, with a reputation for reliability and build quality.
Inside, the Mazda 2 features a 7.0-inch infotainment screen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, giving drivers simple access to their smartphone functions. You do get LED headlights, keyless start, and leather for the gear-selector and steering wheel. Mazda supports the entire lineup with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, ensuring peace of mind with every drive.
Chery Omoda 5 FX
| Model | Prices |
| 2025 Chery OMODA 5 | $27,990 – $36,990 |
Chery continues its push into the Australian market with the Omoda 5 FX, priced at $26,990 drive-away. It sits above the Tiggo 4 Pro in the brand’s range and offers a bold, futuristic design paired with an attractive tech and warranty package.
The Omoda 5 FX comes standard with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 108kW of power and 210Nm of torque, sent to the front wheels via a CVT. Chery has also made waves by offering electric variants, which share the same underpinnings but introduce a 150kW electric motor and a range of up to 430km on the WLTP cycle. The prices for the Omoda E5 electric SUV start north of $40k.
All Omoda 5 variants benefit from wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the base-spec FX trim getting a 10.25-inch touchscreen, along with a strong safety and a spacious cabin. Warranty coverage includes a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre vehicle warranty and an additional eight-year warranty for the EV battery, reinforcing its value for money.
Conclusion
While hybrid and electric vehicles continue to gain traction in the Australian market, the demand for affordable petrol-powered cars and SUVs remains strong. In terms of safety, thanks to the mandatory list of equipment, all these cars do have a comprehensive list of safety features but only some offer advanced assist systems at this price point. The 2025 lineup of the country’s cheapest cars highlights a diverse mix – from compact city hatchbacks to feature-rich small SUVs and even hybrid options under $30,000.
With various limited-time deals and strong manufacturer warranties on offer, budget-conscious buyers have more choices than ever. Whether it’s the ultra-compact Kia Picanto or the value-packed Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, the cheapest cars in Australia this year deliver impressive variety for those who want practicality, economy, and value with minimal compromise.
Comments
New Comment