If you've been holding off on that next vehicle upgrade, 2026 might just be your year. A wave of new cars in 2026 is set to hit Australian roads, bringing fresh technology, sharper efficiency, and plenty of options for anyone looking to salary package or lease through their business.
Between upcoming electric SUVs, hybrid utes, or super affordable small EVs, the lineup is shaping up to be one of the strongest we've seen in years. These cars are part of a fast-moving automotive landscape, with future cars offering better technology, more comfort, and smarter use of battery power.
Read on as we walk through all the new cars that are coming, who's bringing them, and how you can get ahead of the game with a lease that actually makes sense for your wallet. There are more releases of cars, new brands, and new models besides the ones listed here; however, these are our top picks.
Why 2026 Is a Big Deal for New Cars In Australia
The automotive landscape is shifting fast. With the past decade being full of supply chain chaos and long wait times, manufacturers are finally catching up with a new generation of cars. Right-hand-drive production is ramping up, and local allocations are looking healthier than they have in ages. That means potentially shorter wait times and more choices when the 2026 new model releases start rolling into dealerships.
Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) concessions on eligible battery-electric vehicles are also still in play until 2027, making novated leases a genuine money-saver for employees. If you're in a position to salary package, locking in one of these new car arrivals in Australia by early 2026, before any price adjustments, could save you thousands over the term of your lease.
Businesses aren't missing out either. Operating leases on tool-of-trade utes and vans are getting more attractive as hybrid variants hit the market, cutting fuel bills without sacrificing the grunt you need on site. Many of these upcoming cars now offer better ground clearance, improved wheel drive systems, and upgraded interior space, giving businesses more flexibility.
Best Electric Cars
Tesla Model 3 Highland
The 2026 Model 3 Highland is expected to arrive in the first quarter with a few subtle tweaks. If you’ve been eyeing a sedan that blends performance with low running costs, this new model is worth a look.
This has the addition of a 17-speaker sound system and the capability of Tesla’s newly-released Full Self Driving (Supervised) driving assistance suite, which allows it to complete difficult maneuvers like city street navigation. As with all Teslas, it features advanced electric motors and fast EV platform improvements, ideal for drivers wanting strong electric driving range and smoother electric power.
For performance-minded buyers, Tesla is also expected to refine handling and top speed characteristics without compromising efficiency.
BYD Atto 2
BYD has been making waves with aggressive pricing, and 2026 looks set to continue that trend. The 2026 Atto 2 small SUV is tipped to reach dealerships in the first half of the year. It's a compact SUV aimed squarely at city drivers who want something nimble but practical.
This comes in two models (Dynamic or Premium), with the Premium having additional features like a panoramic sunroof, four extra speakers, a 360-degree camera, and many more. As an electric, small SUV option, the Dynamic is expected to offer fast charging, modern infotainment system features, and efficient two electric motors, giving city drivers a practical balance of efficiency and usable EV range.
BYD Atto 1 (BYD Seagull)
When it comes to affordability, the BYD Atto 1 (known as the BYD Seagull in China) is rising to the top amongst all other EVs as one of the best priced on the market.
As a BYD hatch available in both Dynamic and Premium models, this is the ideal EV for those looking for a green vehicle that can provide maximum savings.
It also comes with a super tech suite, including a rotating touch screen, wireless mobile connectivity, plus an effective charging capacity and battery range for the price. It’s the perfect first car for your kids, or even as a second car for the family to use while zipping around the city.
Hyundai Elexio
The Elexio is a mid-size electric car expected to arrive in the first half of the year. It's built on the same EV platform as the Ioniq 5 and EV6, so you're getting a proven package with solid electric driving range and fast charging.
With fast charging and a large, 27-inch ultra-thin 4K display, this is a great option for buyers who want that modern look without the luxury pricing. This electric version showcases how all-electric models are becoming mainstream in the Australian market, positioning the Elexio as part of Hyundai’s push toward the next generation of EVs.
Best Plug-In Hybrids
BYD Sealion 8
The Sealion 8 is the other headline act. This seven-seat plug-in hybrid is designed for families who need the flexibility of electric power for daily commutes but want a petrol engine for longer trips. As with all BYDs, expect solid build quality and a competitive on-road cost figure.
It has a unique massage function for front and rear seats as well as a 21-speaker premium audio system. This model should sit comfortably under the Luxury Car Tax threshold, which is crucial if you're salary packaging. Lower purchase price means lower lease repayments, and BYD's track record suggests they'll keep things affordable.
Toyota RAV4 PHEV
While there have been RAV4 BEVs (battery electric vehicles) in the past, the sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 is the first plug-in hybrid variant to be introduced to Australia.
This means we now have a RAV4 model that offers a blend of fuel and electric, making for more flexible driving options for Australians.
Expect three electric motors in this PHEV version, delivering more power and better acceleration than the current model. From features like a tilt and slide moonroof to upgraded LED headlights, this car is definitely one to look out for.
Kia EV9 GT
Kia's also bringing the EV9 GT, a high-performance version of their flagship electric SUV. Compared to the first model that launched in 2023, this has three electric motors, All Wheel Drive, and a combined output that makes for an impressive package.
It's a large SUV, making it great for families or businesses wanting something that can haul people and gear while still being quick off the line. You can expect improved interior space, a bigger infotainment screen, and strong interest when these models reach dealerships.
Best Utes
Ford Ranger Super Duty
Ford's Ranger Super Duty is tipped to arrive in the second quarter. It's a beefier version of the standard Ranger, aimed at operators who need more payload and towing capacity. Think heavy-duty suspension, stronger chassis, and possibly a tweaked powertrain.
It's not a hybrid, but for businesses that need serious hauling grunt, it's a solid tool-of-trade option.
Isuzu D-Max Electric
Isuzu’s electric D-Max is one of the more intriguing prospects. At the time of writing this article, the 2026 Isuzu D-Max EV features a permanent all-wheel drive, 210mm of ground clearance, 600mm of water wading, and a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes.
It's expected to reach dealerships in the second half of 2026, and it could be a strong contender for fleet managers wanting to cut fuel bills. The dual motor setup and rugged design make it competitive in both the Australian market and the North American market.
Nissan Navara
Nissan's Navara redesign is also on the cards. The current model is getting outdated, and a new generation is overdue.
Expect a powerful 2.4L turbo-diesel engine, an advanced 4x4 system, modern technology (e.g., touchscreen and wireless charging), and a return to leaf springs for better load handling. If Nissan can keep the starting price competitive, it'll be a solid alternative to the HiLux and Ranger.
What These Future Cars Mean for Novated Leasing
The flood of new cars in 2026 is great news if you're in the market for a salary packaging arrangement or a novated lease. More choice means better deals, and the mix of plug-in hybrid, electric vehicle, and numerous ute or SUV options gives you flexibility to find something that fits your budget and driving needs.
If you're salary packaging, focus on models under the Luxury Car Tax threshold that qualify for FBT exemptions. Battery-electric and eligible plug-in hybrid vehicles are where the real savings live, as you avoid paying tax on private use. That can shave thousands off your annual repayments.
For businesses, the rise of hybrid utes and electric vans opens up new opportunities to cut running costs without sacrificing capability. Ordering early is key, especially if you want to lock in the current model year's starting price before any Recommended Retail Price adjustments roll through.
Getting Your Timing Right
Most of these 2026 cars are expected to hit dealer lots between the first quarter and the third quarter of the year. If you're keen on a specific model, it's worth talking to a leasing provider now to understand lead times and lock in your spot.
Early orders also give you more negotiating power. Dealers are often more flexible on pricing when they're taking pre-orders, and you'll have a better chance of getting the spec and colour you want.
One concern that still pops up with electric vehicles is charging. The good news is that public fast charging infrastructure is expanding quickly, thanks to ongoing government grants. If you're mostly driving in metro areas, range anxiety is becoming less of an issue.
For plug-in hybrids, you get the best of both worlds. Use electric power for daily commutes, then switch to petrol for longer trips. It's a practical solution if you're not ready to go fully electric but still want to cut fuel costs.
Running costs are another big win for electric and hybrid vehicles. Electricity is cheaper than petrol, and electric motors have fewer moving parts, which means lower maintenance bills over the life of your lease.
What to Watch Out For
Not every new model will be available immediately. Some manufacturers are prioritising certain markets, and right-hand-drive production can lag behind left-hand-drive markets. If you're eyeing a specific 2026 car model, check with your leasing provider about expected delivery times.
Also, keep an eye on on road costs. Registration, stamp duty, and insurance can vary depending on the vehicle's purchase price and your state. Your leasing provider should be able to give you a full breakdown, but it's worth asking upfront to avoid surprises.
How Easi Can Help Get You into Your Next Car
Navigating the flood of new cars or new models coming to Australia in 2026 can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to work out which lease structure makes sense for your situation. That's where we come in.
At Easi, we specialise in novated leases that take the hassle out of getting behind the wheel of your next vehicle. Whether you're after a future car like a battery-electric SUV, a plug-in hybrid ute, or something sporty, we'll crunch the numbers and show you exactly what it'll cost per pay cycle.
We work with all the major manufacturers, so we can help you compare cars coming next year, lock in pre-orders, and make sure you're taking full advantage of any FBT exemptions. Plus, we handle all the paperwork, so you don't have to.
Want to see what your next lease could look like? Get in touch with us today, and let's find the right new car for you from the 2026 lineup.
