The oldest 'new' cars still on sale in Australia

Most cars have an average life cycle of between six and eight years before a new-generation model is launched.

While there are some exceptions – particularly for light-commercial vehicles – this mostly holds true.

However, some ‘new’ vehicles sold in Australia are ageing – ranging from more than half a decade to almost 40 years old.

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Here is every vehicle still available 'new' in Australia that launched at least eight years ago

JUMP AHEAD

• Audi Q7
• Mazda MX-5
• Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
• Toyota HiLux
• Volvo XC90
• Mazda 2
• Mazda CX-3
• Mitsubishi Triton
• Nissan Navara
• Suzuki Vitara
• Mazda 6
• MG 3
• Nissan Patrol
• Mitsubishi ASX
• Ram 1500 'DS'
• Toyota LandCruiser Prado
• Fiat 500
• Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series
• What else?

Audi Q7

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A successor to the seven-seat Audi Q7 large SUV could be the brand's final all-new internal-combustion vehicle

With the German luxury brand promising to launch only battery-electric vehicles after 2026, the third-generation Q7 will likely remain on the MLB Evo platform.

The first-generation Q7's 10-year lifespan suggests a similar timeframe for the current vehicle, which launched in 2015.

A major update in 2020 introduced exterior tweaks and an overhauled cabin similar to its newer Q8 coupe SUV sibling, with another revision expected to debut later this yer.

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Mazda MX-5

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The current Mazda MX-5 was unveiled in 2015, with no design changes since – although the RF hardtop was introduced two years later.

Although it might look the same, the MX-5 has been updated over the years, with an improved 2.0-litre engine, additional technology, new paint colours, special editions, and the deletion of the entry-level 1.5-litre engine.

So, what's next for the iconic MX-5?

A senior Mazda executive has confirmed a next-generation MX-5 is on track for a circa-2026 launch.

“The MX-5 is an icon in the Mazda product lineup and we have a lot of promise with our current MX-5 owners spread all over the world, so we will continue our MX-5 in the future,” Mazda’s director and senior managing executive officer, Yasuhiro Aoyama, told Wheels.

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Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

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While the rumour mill, spy-photo collection, and executive quotes are rife for the next-generation Triton, less is known about its SUV twin, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.

First launched in 2015, the current Pajero Sport – a nameplate new to Australia, replacing the Challenger – is expected to remain on sale until late next year, if not later.

A future product roadmap released by Mitsubishi points to a global launch in 2025 for the next-generation Pajero Sport, which will be heavily based on the imminent all-new Triton.

The existing model is one of Australia's most popular large SUVs, with affordable pricing in comparison to other body-on-frame vehicles, including the Toyota LandCruiser Prado, Isuzu MU-X and Ford Everest.

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Toyota HiLux

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Australia's top-selling vehicle is approaching the end of its current lifecycle, but there's little news on its successor.

The current Toyota HiLux was unveiled in Australia in 2015, reflecting its importance in the local market.

Launched with a brand-new 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, it was updated in 2020 with more power and a facelifted design.

And, in spite of competition from the latest Ford Ranger, there's still life remaining in the HiLux, with a widebody Rogue joining the range in recent months and the flagship GR Sport due later this year.

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Volvo XC90

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The all-electric Volvo EX90 is the spiritual successor to the internal-combustion XC90 large SUV, but it won't directly replace it.

Not until 2026, at least, when Volvo Australia will go electric-only – three years ahead of the Chinese-owned Swedish brand's global commitment.

Therefore, the current Volvo XC90 – revealed in 2015 – looks to remain available until that date, following in the path of the first-generation model that was produced for over a decade.

It was recently updated with a Google-based infotainment system, and an improved plug-in hybrid system for the range-topping electrified variant.

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Mazda 2

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Previously cheap and cheerful, an update to the Mazda 2 in 2019 marked the end of the affordable base variant. It will receive a further update in mid-2023 with a revised design, including an EV-like closed-off front grille.

However, while sales have declined, it is still a popular option in the segment – but its previous success has been overtaken by the MG 3 and now-discontinued Suzuki Baleno.

To compensate, the 2014-era Mazda 2 includes a strong array of standard equipment, including all-important active safety technology and softer cabin materials.

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Mazda CX-3

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Based on the current Mazda 2 (above), the higher-riding Mazda CX-3 is one of Australia's first light SUVs.

And its popularity hasn't stagnated since it launched here in 2015, with the CX-3 in first position, ahead of the Kia Stonic and Toyota Yaris Cross.

While there's no word on a successor to the CX-3, it is expected in the coming years, potentially adopting the CX-20 nameplate to reflect its connection to the Mazda 2 hatchback.

However, the CX-3's future is uncertain with its recent discontinuation in the US and UK – although a brand-new Euro-focused model (CX-20?) has potential, in line with that market's preference for smaller vehicles.

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Mitsubishi Triton

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The next-generation Mitsubishi Triton is imminent, with a local debut expected in early 2024. The XRT Concept recently previewed it, and you can catch our speculative renderings here.

In the meantime, the current Triton remains on sale. It was recently updated for model-year 2023 with a new special edition, improved side-impact protection, and the return of Mitsubishi's proprietary infotainment system on most variants.

In fact, the Triton received a comprehensive update in 2018, with its curvy predecessor replaced by the chunkier facelifted model, which gained a new Pajero Sport-inspired look, but the changes weren't deep enough to be considered a new-generation vehicle.

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Nissan Navara

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The current-generation Nissan Navara launched in 2014, replacing both the previous D40 model that survived for a decade and the even older D22 workhorse.

It received a facelift in early 2021, while Melbourne-based Premcar has fiddled with the range-topping Pro-4X (previously N-Trek), and now the entry-level SL, to create the factory-backed Warrior range.

A replacement to the Navara is due in 2024 or 2025, with an optional E-Power hybrid powertrain looking likely.

It will be underpinned by the next-generation Mitsubishi Triton's platform, with the potential for a more hardcore successor to the off-road-focused Warrior line-up.

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Suzuki Vitara

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The Hungarian-built Suzuki Vitara launched in Australia in 2015, with no major changes to its design since.

An update, which debuted locally alongside the new Jimny in 2019, introduced a minor facelift and improved safety technology – but AEB remains unavailable on the base model.

There's no word on a successor to the Vitara at this stage, however, it is likely within the next three years. The Indian-built Grand Vitara has been ruled out for Australia.

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Mazda 6

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Mazda's venerable mid-size sedan and wagon has received an update for 2023, as the nameplate celebrates its 20th year on sale.

First launched in 2012, the third-generation Mazda 6 has retained its shape, with plans to replace it with a CX-60-based rear-drive model effectively scrapped.

According to Mazda, the CX-60's modular Large Architecture isn't compatible with passenger and sports cars, with a focus on the popular SUV body type.

However, the current 6 remains fresh, with two major facelifts in 2015 and 2018, respectively; a punchy turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder from the CX-9; and the latest technology added throughout its lifecycle – although its dated infotainment system remains (now with wireless Apple CarPlay).

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MG 3

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Known for its affordable pricing and long warranty, the MG 3 is one of Australia's most popular vehicles.

However, it is far from being technologically advanced, with the 2011 vintage vehicle lacking potentially life-saving autonomous emergency braking, a six-speed automatic transmission (it has four gears), and a cleaner fuel-efficient engine.

An update in 2018 is mainly responsible for the MG 3's local success, with the manual-only pre-facelift model replaced by a fresher-looking, automatic-only vehicle with Apple CarPlay compatibility (there's still no Android Auto).

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Nissan Patrol

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Although the Nissan Patrol arrived in Australia in late 2012, it has been available overseas since 2010.

It was initially sold alongside the previous-generation 'Y61'/'GU' until 2016 – itself a contender for one of the oldest cars sold in Australia at the time.

While its exterior and active safety tech has received a comprehensive update, the interior of the Patrol is a demonstration of its age.

Left-hand-drive examples have a semi-digital instrument cluster, a simplified centre stack, a larger infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a less-gaudy woodgrain look, but the right-hand-drive model looks like it hasn't left the late 2000s.

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Mitsubishi ASX

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In production since 2010, the Mitsubishi ASX is now a few tiers above being merely "venerable".

Think of it this way: the average production run of a car these days is about six years.

While it's objectively now well behind the rest of its peers in terms of, well, everything, the car-buying public still can't get enough of the humble ASX.

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Ram 1500 DS

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America's strategy to keep an older generation vehicle in production alongside its successor is prevalent with the Ram 1500.

Officially known in the United States as the 'Ram 1500 Classic', the previous-generation 'DS' is built in unison with its newer 'DT' sibling, which was unveiled in 2019.

It is sold in Australia at the bottom of the 'pick-up truck' range, with two entry-level grades – Express and Warlock – while the latest model is available in flagship Laramie, Limited and TRX guise.

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Toyota LandCruiser Prado

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It might show its age, but the Toyota LandCruiser Prado remains as popular as ever.

In fact, it is the most popular large SUV in Australia – a title the off-roader has held since 2015 after being outsold by the previous-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee.

First launched in 2009, the Prado has received minor updates almost yearly, two major facelifts, and, in 2015, a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel borrowed from the HiLux.

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Fiat 500

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Would you believe the ever-perky Fiat 500 has been around since 2007?

A recent update freshens up the interior yet its packaging still leaves much to be desired for taller/larger occupants, but despite staying in production for more than twice as long as the average car, the 500 has hung onto its retro charm rather well.

It's far from perfect, but it's got heaps of personality, and we'll be a little bit sad when it finally shuffles off this mortal coil – though at this rate, who knows when that might be.

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Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series

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Toyota’s answer to the Land Rover Defender is a hit in the Aussie bush – mainly because it’s unkillable. It's ancient though.

While the Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series on sale today – though orders are currently paused – with its single-turbo version of the brand's 4.5-litre turbo-diesel V8, went on sale back in 2007, the model family it belongs to entered production way back in 1984. That explains the styling…

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What else?

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Volkswagen Tiguan (2015); new model due in 2023

TO BE DIRECTLY REPLACED

• Audi A4 (2015; new model due 2023)
• Toyota Fortuner (2015; new model to follow next-gen HiLux)
• Volkswagen Tiguan (2015; new model due 2023)
• Volkswagen Passat (2014; new model due 2023, but potentially not for Australia)
• Ford Mustang (2013; new model revealed, here late 2023)
• Mini Hatch (2013; new model due 2023)
• Porsche Macan (2013; new model due 2023).

RATIONALISATION

• Jaguar XE (2015; XE and XF to be streamlined into single EV model)
• Jaguar XF (2015; XE and XF to be streamlined into single EV model)
• Mini Clubman (2015; expected to be succeeded by Aceman small SUV)
• Maserati Ghibli (2013; rumoured to be replaced by electric Quattroporte)
• Maserati Quattroporte (2013; new model will be an EV).

LIVING ON

• Mercedes-Benz V-Class and Vito (2014; no known plans)
• Mahindra Pik-Up (2007; no known plans)
• Fiat Ducato (2007; no known plans).

DEAD

• Audi TT (2014; production ending in 2023).

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