Automotive News & Car Buying Guides

Is It Cheaper to Buy a New or Used Car in Australia in 2026? Full cost breakdown

A used car usually wins on upfront cost and immediate depreciation, while a new car can make sense if you value peace of mind, warranty cover, lower early maintenance and specific incentives (especially for EVs). Which is cheaper depends on how long you keep the car, your driving pattern, insurance profile and whether you buy electric or petrol. Below I break the numbers and the real life trade of

13 February 2026·7 min read

Waqas Afzal