New Zealand's New-Car Market Sees a Shift in Leadership

After a decade of dominance, the Ford Ranger has been dethroned as New Zealand's most popular new car in the first half of 2025. The Toyota RAV4 has taken the top spot, signaling a significant shift in consumer preferences. This change reflects broader trends in the automotive market, with SUVs and plug-in hybrids gaining traction among buyers.

The Rise of the Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4, already the world's most popular car, has now claimed the top position in New Zealand with 4,584 registrations in the first half of the year. Its success is attributed to its hybrid technology, reliability, and strong brand reputation. The RAV4 has been a consistent top performer in the SUV segment, and its recent fully hybrid model has further solidified its appeal.

Ford Ranger's Reign Ends After a Decade

For ten years, the Ford Ranger was the undisputed leader in New Zealand's new-car market. However, the RAV4's rise marks the end of its reign. The Ranger, with 4,300 registrations in the first half of 2025, still holds a strong position but has been overtaken by the RAV4's growing popularity.

Key Players in the 2025 New Zealand Car Market

Several models have made a significant impact in the 2025 market, including:

• BYD Shark 6: This model saw a surge in sales in June, particularly due to an aggressive Fieldays promotion. It has positioned itself as a strong contender in the emerging electric vehicle segment.
• Kia Seltos: One of the most affordable models on the list, the Seltos has gained popularity for its value for money and practicality.
• Mitsubishi Outlander: A long-standing favorite in the SUV category, the Outlander continues to attract buyers with its reliability and family-friendly features.

Market Trends and Consumer Preferences

The shift in leadership from the Ford Ranger to the Toyota RAV4 highlights a broader trend in the automotive industry. Consumers are increasingly favoring SUVs and hybrid vehicles over traditional pickup trucks. This trend is driven by a combination of factors, including environmental concerns, fuel efficiency, and lifestyle changes.

Looking Ahead

As the automotive market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the competition between the Toyota RAV4 and the Ford Ranger unfolds in the second half of 2025. Both models are expected to remain strong contenders, with the RAV4's hybrid technology and the Ranger's rugged performance continuing to attract different segments of the market.

Conclusion

The dethroning of the Ford Ranger by the Toyota RAV4 marks a significant milestone in New Zealand's automotive history. It reflects changing consumer preferences and the growing importance of SUVs and hybrid vehicles in the market. As the industry continues to innovate, it will be fascinating to see how these trends shape the future of car ownership in New Zealand.