‘Big Four’ Chinese automakers smash into Australia’s top 10 cars sold

China’s dominance of a major Aussie industry and our lifestyles from day-to-day continues to grow.

2 min read

September 3, 2025 - 7:31PM

Motoring

Chinese car brands have taken over Australia’s motoring market, with four different manufacturers breaking into the national top 10 for the first time in history.

New figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) on Wednesday reveal BYD, GWM, MG and Chery featuring in the top 10 for most cars sold in the country in August, outselling major European, Korean and Japanese rivals.

A total of 20,070 Chinese-made cars were sold in August alone, a 67.6 per cent increase from the same time last year.

Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber said the figures showed how quickly the industry – and consumers – are adapting to new options.

The BYD Shark 6 has secured a five star ANCAP rating, placing it in the top safest utes in Australia. Picture: ANCAP

“The presence of four Chinese brands in the top 10 illustrates the continuing evolution of the automotive landscape in Australia. Consumers have an extraordinary range of vehicles to choose from – more than 400 models, including around 100 EVs,” Mr Weber said.

CHINA MAKES ITS MOVE

China’s EV powerhouse BYD placed 6th in the monthly rankings for August, due to its popular Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute (1,261 sales) and the Sealion 7 (1,413 sales).

The automaker had a 145.9 per cent YTD growth.

Followed closely by GWM, which gained ground with its Haval Jolion (1,562 units) and rugged off-roader, the Tank 300 (461 units).

Chery and GWM land in the top 10 for the month of August. Picture Mark Bean

While MG’s overall YTD numbers dipped slightly, the brand is still holding strong in the top 10 with a massive surge in ZS SUV sales, up 70.1 per cent year-on-year.

After a failed attempt a decade ago, Chery has come back into the Aussie market, led by affordable SUVs like the Tiggo 4 Pro (1,780 units sold) and Tiggo 7 Pro.

Industry analysts say the rapid growth of Chinese automakers is being driven by a combination of affordable pricing, strong supply chains, and consumer demand for high-specification vehicles at lower prices.

Chinese brand have capitalised on the gap in the market by offering well-equipped models with features such as large screens, driver-assist technology and electric powertrains.

Japann’s Toyota maintained its dominance as Australia’s most favourite car maker, selling the most vehicles in the month of August and through 2025, according to the figures.

MORE: First look – The car ready to take over Australia