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Automotive market

Car Brands in New Zealand

New Zealand is a compact, fully import-driven market where Japanese brands have long dominated, both new and used-imported. Toyota is the runaway leader, utes and SUVs are hugely popular, and Chinese brands have rapidly become some of the fastest-growing names in the country.

An import-only market long dominated by Japanese brands.

Most popular car brands in New Zealand

Car brands sold in New Zealand, by origin

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Japanese car brands in New Zealand

Toyota is New Zealand's best-selling brand by far, and Japanese marques dominate both the new and used-import markets.

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Korean car brands in New Zealand

Kia and Hyundai are consistently among the top-selling brands in New Zealand.

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American car brands in New Zealand

Ford is a perennial top seller thanks to the Ranger ute, while Tesla leads EV sales.

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German car brands in New Zealand

German brands cover the premium end of the New Zealand market.

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Chinese car brands in New Zealand

Chinese brands have grown rapidly in New Zealand. BYD, MG (SAIC) and GWM now rank among the fastest-growing marques, competing strongly in the EV and value-SUV segments.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most popular car brands in NZ?
Toyota is New Zealand's best-selling brand by a wide margin, followed by Mitsubishi, Ford, Kia, Hyundai and Mazda. Chinese brands like BYD and MG are growing quickly.
Does New Zealand make its own cars?
No — New Zealand has no domestic car manufacturer. It is a fully import-driven market, with a significant share of used vehicles imported from Japan.

Car brands in other markets

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