Loans For Cars :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

China Overtakes Japan as Australia's Top Vehicle Import Source

February 2026 Marks a Historic Shift in Automotive Imports

China Overtakes Japan as Australia's Top Vehicle Import Source?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

February 2026 witnessed a significant shift in Australia's automotive import landscape, with China surpassing Japan as the largest source of new vehicles.
This marks the first time in 28 years that Japan has been dethroned from the top spot.

Data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) reveals that 22,362 vehicles sourced from China were sold in Australia during February, edging out Japan's 21,671 units. Thailand and South Korea followed with 19,493 and 11,913 vehicles, respectively.

This change reflects broader trends in the Australian car market, including the introduction of new brands and models from China. Since 2020, ten new automotive brands have entered the Australian market, six of which have arrived within the past two years. This influx has provided consumers with a wider array of choices, often at competitive price points.

For Australian consumers, this diversification means more options when selecting a vehicle that suits their needs and budget. However, it's essential to consider factors such as after-sales service, warranty coverage, and resale value when opting for newer brands.

As the automotive market continues to evolve, staying informed about emerging trends and conducting thorough research will empower consumers to make decisions that align with their preferences and financial goals.

Published:Friday, 10th Apr 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Finance News

What a Softer Vehicle Market Means for Your Next Car Loan
What a Softer Vehicle Market Means for Your Next Car Loan
20 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia’s vehicle market is showing signs of a more cautious buyer mood, with recent industry updates pointing to softer momentum after a strong run in new-car demand. For households and small businesses, that shift matters because it can change the balance of power at the dealership. When stock levels improve and buyers become more selective, driveaway offers, trade-in negotiations and model availability can all become more flexible. - read more
What the Latest RBA Hold Means for Car Loan Shoppers
What the Latest RBA Hold Means for Car Loan Shoppers
13 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian borrowers have been given a little more certainty after the Reserve Bank of Australia left the cash rate unchanged at 4.35%, shifting attention from further rate rises to how long higher borrowing costs may remain in place. For anyone planning to finance a new car, used vehicle, ute or business vehicle, the decision is welcome, but it is not the same as relief. - read more
How Australia’s Vehicle Emissions Rules Could Affect Your Next Car Loan
How Australia’s Vehicle Emissions Rules Could Affect Your Next Car Loan
30 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard is now a key factor for anyone planning to buy a new car, ute or SUV. The policy is designed to push the local market towards lower-emission vehicles by setting annual efficiency targets for manufacturers and importers. While the rules apply to suppliers rather than individual motorists, the flow-on effects may still be felt at the dealership and in loan decisions. - read more
Why July’s Low Car Loan Rates Need a Closer Look
Why July’s Low Car Loan Rates Need a Closer Look
23 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian car buyers have been given a fresh reminder this month that a low advertised interest rate is only one part of the finance decision. Canstar’s July 2026 car loan comparison update shows secured car loan offers starting from 5.67% for a $50,000 loan over five years, with MoneyPlace and Stratton Finance both appearing at that headline rate in the snapshot. - read more
What July's Lowest Car Loan Rates Mean for Buyers
What July's Lowest Car Loan Rates Mean for Buyers
09 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Australian car buyers have a fresh reminder this week that the lowest advertised rate is not always the same as the cheapest loan. Canstar's latest July 2026 car loan comparison update shows secured car loan offers starting from 5.67% for a $50,000 loan over five years, with MoneyPlace and Stratton Finance both appearing at that headline rate in the snapshot. However, their comparison rates differ, underlining why the total loan cost needs closer attention. - read more
Non-Bank Lenders Now Play a Bigger Role in Australian Car Finance
Non-Bank Lenders Now Play a Bigger Role in Australian Car Finance
25 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
A new Australian Finance Industry Association report, released on 5 June 2026, highlights how important non-bank lenders have become in the vehicle finance market. According to the report, motor finance non-bank lenders helped 507,000 consumer and commercial customers buy vehicles in 2025, providing $24.4 billion in loans. By the end of that year, their active loan books were worth $53 billion. - read more
Electric Vehicles Capture 20% of Australian New Car Market
Electric Vehicles Capture 20% of Australian New Car Market
11 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
In May 2026, electric vehicles (EVs) achieved a significant milestone in Australia, accounting for 20% of all new car sales. This development indicates a substantial shift in consumer preferences towards more sustainable transportation options. - read more


Car Loans Articles

Loans for Cars: Establishing How Much You Can Afford to Borrow
Loans for Cars: Establishing How Much You Can Afford to Borrow
When it comes to car loans, one of the first things you need to determine is your budget – how much can you afford to borrow and still comfortably make your monthly car loan repayments? - read more
Essential Guide for Australian First-Time Car Buyers
Essential Guide for Australian First-Time Car Buyers
Welcome to your essential guide for Australian first-time car buyers! Whether you're dreaming of your first sleek, new vehicle or a reliable pre-owned car, buying a car for the first time is a big milestone and an exciting experience. - read more
Personal and Commercial Car Loans in Australia: Key Differences Explained
Personal and Commercial Car Loans in Australia: Key Differences Explained
Personal and commercial car loans can look similar, but they are assessed and structured differently. This guide explains how loan purpose, vehicle use, documentation, tax considerations and borrower obligations may differ in Australia. - read more
Temporary Resident? Learn How You Can Qualify for an Australian Car Loan
Temporary Resident? Learn How You Can Qualify for an Australian Car Loan
Welcome to your comprehensive guide on navigating the Australian car loan landscape as a temporary resident. Whether you're here for work, study, or leisure, having your own vehicle can vastly improve your time in Australia. However, securing a loan for a car might seem like a formidable task given your temporary status. That's where this article steps in—to enlighten and empower you in this financial journey. - read more
The Credit-Savvy Car Buyer’s Guide to Obtaining Affordable Insurance
The Credit-Savvy Car Buyer’s Guide to Obtaining Affordable Insurance
Embarking on the journey of car ownership comes with its share of responsibilities, one of which is securing affordable insurance. Understanding the intricacies of insurance rates is central to managing this recurring expense effectively. Insurers take into account numerous factors when determining your premium, including but not limited to driving history, vehicle type, and geographic location. - read more
Things You Wish You Knew Before Buying a Car
Things You Wish You Knew Before Buying a Car
Welcome to Things You Wish You Knew Before Buying a Car – the ultimate guide to understanding car financing.For a limited time, you can download a free copy of this valuable resource. Our retail price for the eBook is AUD $19.95, but we're offering it to you for free – no strings attached! Click to Download Free - read more
Loans for Cars: Finding out if you Qualify
Loans for Cars: Finding out if you Qualify
Qualifying for a car loan isn't all that difficult. There are a few key things that lenders will look at when considering your application, including your income, credit history/existing loans, employment, age, and residency atatus. As long as you have a good understanding of these factors, you’ll be in a much better position to qualify for a car loan. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about qualifying for a car loan! - read more


Need A Car Loan Right Now?
Compare car loan rates & options from participating car finance brokers and lenders in our national referral panel to help you find competitive finance solutions. Fast and free... our initial eligibility assessment does not access your credit file!

 START HERE.

Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.

Compare car loan rates & options from participating car finance brokers and lenders in our national referral panel to help you find competitive finance solutions. Fast and free... our initial eligibility assessment does not access your credit file!

Knowledgebase
Liquidity:
The ease with which an asset or security can be converted into cash without affecting its market price.