Top 10 Searched: These were the most popular cars on Trade Me in August

1. Toyota Hilux 
It comes as no surprise that the mighty Toyota Hilux holds the top spot. After a long, wet winter, Kiwi are looking for a reliable ute that can handle muddy tracks. The Hilux is the undisputed king of getting any job done, no matter the season.

2. Suzuki Swift
Like the first daffodil of spring, the Suzuki Swift is a perennial favourite. Its zippy and economical nature makes it the perfect choice for shaking off the winter sluggishness and nipping around town and easily find a parking spot!

3. Mazda CX-5
With spring in the air, thoughts turn to weekend getaways. The Mazda CX-5 is the ideal companion, blending style and practicality. It has plenty of room for the family and all the gear, making it a top contender for those planning to get out and about.

4. Mitsubishi Outlander
For those needing even more space for their spring adventures, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a clear winner. Its optional seven seats make it perfect for larger families or the weekend sports run, while the popular PHEV version is a smart choice for those looking to save on fuel for summer road trips.

5. Toyota Prius
The original hybrid hero remains a beacon of efficiency. As Kiwis start budgeting for the holiday season, the Prius’s incredible fuel economy makes it a top search. It’s the sensible choice that leaves more money in your pocket for fun in the sun.

6. Toyota Aqua
Packing the same hybrid punch as its larger cousin, the Toyota Aqua is the perfect compact car for the city. It’s the ideal vehicle for navigating bustling streets and finding a park as the social calendar starts to fill up with springtime events.

7. Mazda Axela
Known for its sporty feel and stylish looks, the Mazda Axela (or Mazda3) is for those who want a practical hatchback without compromising on fun. It’s the perfect all-rounder for the daily commute and spirited drives on winding country roads as the weather warms up.

8. Nissan X-trail
X-Trail Another solid SUV contender, the Nissan X-Trail is a trusted choice for families across New Zealand. Its reputation for comfort and space makes it a go-to for those needing a reliable vehicle to handle everything from the school run to exploring the great outdoors this spring.

9. Honda Fit
The Honda Fit (or Jazz) is the master of clever design. Its famous 'Magic Seats' offer unrivalled versatility, making it perfect for hauling everything from bags of potting mix for the garden to gear for a weekend away. It’s the small car that thinks it’s a big car.

10. Toyota Hiace
Rounding out the top 10 is the ever-practical Toyota Hiace. For tradies gearing up for a busy spring construction season or adventurers planning their ultimate summer campervan conversion, the Hiace’s cavernous space and legendary reliability make it a constant favourite.

Ready for the Road Ahead

What a lineup! August's search data paints a clear picture of what Kiwis are looking for in their next vehicle: reliability, versatility, and value. As New Zealand emerges from the depths of winter and prepares for the warmer days of spring, these search trends are much like carefully packing a backpack for a new adventure. The enduring popularity of hardworking utes and family-friendly SUVs shows our love for practicality and readiness for any terrain, while the strong showing from hybrids and small hatchbacks proves that fuel efficiency and urban agility are always top of mind. It’s a top 10 that perfectly reflects the needs of drivers all across Aotearoa, ready for whatever the road ahead brings.