The Northern Territory’s new vehicle market closed out 2025 showing strong resilience. Despite broader economic pressures and a shifting regulatory environment, the Territory continues to see steady demand for vehicles suited to its unique conditions and lifestyle.
Motor Trade Association SA/NT CEO Darrell Jacobs said the year-end results highlight a market transition. “The assessment brings into sharp focus evolving consumer preferences and the emergence of new global manufacturers
A total of 10,240 new vehicles were sold in the Northern Territory in 2025, representing a 1.3 per cent increase compared to 2024. While traditional favourites remain popular, the top-selling models continue to be those that demonstrate reliability and capability in the Territory.
The Toyota Hilux remained a top performer, while the new Toyota Prado recorded a significant 542.7 per cent increase to 797 sales following its model refresh. Other leading models included the Toyota LandCruiser, Toyota RAV4, and the Ford Ranger.
Mr Jacobs said these results reinforce a strong consumer trust in brands that deliver the ruggedness required for outback driving.
Territorian motorists continue to buck the national trend, with petrol and diesel remaining the dominant choice, accounting for a combined 79.5 per cent of the market. The shift toward zero and low emission vehicles is progressing, with hybrid vehicles now representing 15.2 per cent of all new sales, while Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) recorded the strongest growth, up 140.2 per cent compared to 2024.
In contrast, Electric Vehicles (EVs) accounted for a modest 2.5 per cent of total sales. Mr Jacobs observed a clear preference for practical electrification, with Territorians favouring hybrids and PHEVs that offer efficiency gains without compromising the range needed for long-distance travel across the Northern Territory.
The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which saw penalties and credits take effect on 1 July 2025, remains a key focus for the industry. With a major federal review of the NVES scheduled for late 2026, the industry is watching closely to see how manufacturers and dealers adapt under tightening targets.
While the Northern Territory has historically maintained a young car parc, currently the youngest in Australia, the MTA remains concerned about the potential road safety impacts following proposed changes to vehicle inspection regimes.
TOP 5 New Vehicles – 2025 YTD
1 – Toyota Hilux 4×4 – 1,123
2 – Toyota Prado – 797
3 – Toyota Landcruiser – 612
4 – Toyota RAV4 – 521
5 – Ford Ranger 4×4 – 380
Zero and low emission vehicles sold in the NT in 2025
- Electric vehicles make up 2.5 per cent of all new cars sold in the Northern Territory, up 0.4 per cent compared to December 2024.
- Hybrid vehicles make up 15.2 per cent of all new cars sold in the Northern Territory, up 8.64 per cent compared to December 2024.
- Plug in hybrid vehicles make up 2.9 per cent of all new cars sold in the Northern Territory, up 140.2 per cent compared to December 2024.
ENDS
