Vehicle sales saw no slowdown in New Zealand during 2021. Despite the worldwide pandemic, the Motor Industry Association recorded a record-breaking 165,287 new car registrations.
This is an increase of 38.3% over 2020.
The popular Outland SUV took the top spot for 2021. With seating for up to seven passengers and a standard 2.4-litre MIVEC engine or 2.3-litre turbo diesel engine, this is the ideal family hauler that is known for its top safety features and affordable price.
The Toyota RAV4 is not only one of the most popular sellers in New Zealand, but it is also one of the biggest sellers around the world. That is due to Toyota’s legendary reputation for reliability. The RAV4 comes standard with a 2.5-litre engine.
Another Mitsubishi makes it to the top 5. The ASX is a compact SUV that provides seating for up to five passengers and an excellent starting price. Also, the Mitsubishi ASX comes standard with an excellent 2.0-litre petrol engine.
It should be no surprise that the ever-popular Toyota Corolla is in the top 5 for 2021. This reliable small sedan and hatchback has bulletproof reliability and lots of popular standard features including a 2.0-litre engine.
The trendy and incredible Tesla Model 3 makes it to the top 5. This is a surprise since the Model 3 is an electric vehicle and it sells at a premium. Standard power on the Model 3 comes from an electric motor that provides up to 491 km of range.
For those looking for a styling small SUV, the Mazda CX-5 is a top choice. This SUV provides seating for up to five passengers and comes standard with a 187 horsepower engine. There is also an optional 250-horsepower engine available.
For those bargain hunters out there, the Suzuki Swift was a popular choice. This subcompact car has one of the lowest entry prices in New Zealand. While standard power is rather small at just 83 horsepower, the Swift more than makes up for it with a fuel consumption rating of 4.1L/100km.
The MG ZS makes it into the top 10 as one of the best values in the small SUV market. This MG SUV allows seating for up to five passengers and comes standard with lots of popular features including a 10.1-colour touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth. Standard power comes from a 1.0-litre engine that provides up to 111 horsepower.
The Kia Stonic comes into the top 10 as one of the most stylish subcompact crossovers on the market. This tiny crossover is powered by a standard 1.0-litre engine that provides up to 98 horsepower. There is also an optional powertrain that provides up to 118 horsepower.
Rounding out the top 10 is the Nissan X-Trail. This stylish crossover offering from Nissan provides seating for up to five passengers. Power comes from a 2.0-litre engine that provides up to 136 horsepower. There is also an available 2.5-litre engine that provides up to 165 horsepower.
Coming in at number 11 is the value-priced Hyundai Kona small SUV. The Kona comes standard with a 2.0-litre engine that provides up to 147 horsepower. Also, the Kona offers lots of great standard features such as an 8-inch touchscreen.
Another Kia makes it into the top seller list. This time it is the stylish Kia Seltos. This premium-looking SUV provides comfortable seating for up to five passengers and offers lots of desirable features such as an 8-inch touchscreen and adaptive cruise control. Power comes from a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine that provides up to 147 horsepower.
Looks like Kia decided to park another one of its SUVs on the top seller list. This time it is the Sportage five-passenger crossover. This SUV comes standard with a 2.5-litre engine that provides up to 187 horsepower.
Making it to the top 15 is the compact crossover Nissan Qashai. This SUV is known for being an excellent value and providing excellent fuel consumption numbers. Standard power comes from a 1.6-litre engine that provides up to 141. Fuel consumption comes in at 47.5 litres per 100km.
Rounding out the list is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. This compact crossover is one of the most affordable vehicles in its class. Standard engine comes from a 1.5-litre engine that provides up to 9 litres per 100km of fuel consumption.
You may be surprised to know that the most popular commercial vehicle sold in New Zealand is not really a commercial vehicle. In 2021, the Ford Ranger mid-size pick-up truck took the top spot with about 13,000 sales.
The Ranger beat out the likes of the Toyota HiAce and the Mercedes Sprinter.
If you are shopping for a new vehicle, then there are some steps you need to take in order to make the right decision. Here are some factors to consider.
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Before acquiring your next vehicle, be sure to consider the entries in the top 15 list. Chances are that these vehicles may offer you excellent value that you may not find in other cars or SUVs. With the right research, you are sure to find the vehicle that is right for you.
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