The cars we cannot wait to see.
If 2025 felt busy, 2026 is turning it up another level. From next-generation family SUVs to electric utes and performance EVs with supercar pace, Australian showrooms are about to get crowded.
Here are the 2026 launches we are most excited about and why they matter for everyday drivers planning their next move.
The Family Favourites Go Hybrid and Plug-In
For many Australians, upgrading the family SUV is about practicality, efficiency and resale confidence. In 2026, two of the biggest names in the segment step into a new era.
Australia's most popular medium SUV gets a serious refresh.
Hybrid remains standard. But for the first time locally, a plug-in hybrid joins the line-up. That means the ability drive short daily commutes on electric power alone, then switch seamlessly to petrol for longer trips.
There is also talk of a GR Sport variant for drivers who want a little more edge from their family SUV.
For employees considering a novated lease, hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs like the new RAV4 continue to hit the sweet spot between practicality and lower running costs.
Mazda's best-seller enters its third generation.
A bigger interior. Updated safety tech. Improved cabin design. A hybrid model is expected to follow, giving Mazda loyalists a more efficient option without abandoning the CX-5 nameplate they trust.
For many drivers, this is exactly the kind of upgrade that works well under a novated lease. Familiar brand. Strong resale. Lower fuel bills.
Electric Cars Level Up
The EV market keeps maturing. In 2026, we see serious leaps in range, performance and pricing.
This is a big one.
Built on BMW's dedicated Neue Klasse EV architecture, the new iX3 represents a clean-sheet rethink. More range. More power. Faster charging.
The iX3 50 xDrive is expected to deliver serious performance with dual motors and sub-five-second acceleration.
For professionals wanting a premium electric SUV, this could be one of the most compelling options of the year.
Mazda 6e
Mazda's first dedicated EV sedan lands mid-2026.
Rear-wheel drive. Claimed 500km-plus range. Competitive positioning against other electric sedans in the market.
For drivers cross-shopping a Tesla or BYD, this is Mazda's statement that it belongs in the EV conversation.
Electric and Hybrid Utes Get Serious
Tradies and fleet buyers have long asked the question. Can a ute really go electric?
2026 starts to answer it.
Toyota HiLux EV
An electric HiLux changes the conversation.
Pricing expected to sit in premium territory, but for fleets looking to reduce emissions and operating costs, this is a major shift.
It also signals where the broader ute market is heading.
BYD Shark 6 and what comes next
The current Shark 6 showed promise with its plug-in hybrid set-up. Strong on-road performance with plenty of tech.
The big question is whether the next evolution improves it off-road credibility. If it does, hybrid utes could move from curiosity to mainstream choice.
Performance Goes Electric
Performance car fans are not being left behind.
Sedan body. Dual motors. Nearly 480kW in boost mode.
This is proof that EVs are not just about efficiency. They can be engaging. Dramatic. Capable of supercar-like acceleration while still being usable every day.
For drivers wanting something different from the usual German performance badge, the Ioniq 6 N could be a genuine surprise package.
The Comebacks and Curveballs
A few other launches have our attention:
- Honda Prelude returns with hybrid power and daily-driver practicality.
- Mitsubishi Pajero is expected to revive a legendary name for large SUV buyers.
- Porsche Cayenne Electric takes Porsche's SUV flagship fully electric.
- Polestar 5 targets the high-end EV performance space.
The 2026 line-up covers every corner of the market. Traditional combustion engines are still here. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are expanding rapidly. Fully electric vehicles are becoming mainstream. There are luxury flagships, hard-working utes and genuine performance machines all arriving within the same year.